Gooey Salted Caramel Butter Cake Bars Recipe
When it comes to creating a dessert that satisfies both sweet and salty cravings, you might consider trying the Gooey Salted Caramel Butter Cake Bars. This recipe is straightforward, making it a great option whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting out. You'll discover how the rich, buttery cake layers blend seamlessly with luscious caramel, creating a texture that's hard to resist. What if you could also add a personal touch with your favorite nuts for extra crunch? As you prepare to preheat your oven, you'll want to explore more about crafting this enticing treat.
Recipe
Gooey Salted Caramel Butter Cake Bars are a sweet indulgence that are sure to delight anyone who tries them. The combination of buttery cake and gooey caramel, with a hint of salt, makes each bite a perfect balance of flavors. These bars are ideal for serving at a family gathering or enjoying as a special treat with a cup of coffee. The preparation is straightforward, making it a great recipe for bakers of any skill level.
To begin, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, guaranteeing each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until everything is well mixed. Spread half of the batter into the prepared baking dish, then evenly pour the salted caramel sauce on top. Drop spoonfuls of the remaining batter over the caramel layer and gently spread to cover. Finish by sprinkling sea salt flakes on top. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Allow the bars to cool before slicing and serving.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup salted caramel sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt flakes
Once your batter is prepared, spread half of it in a greased baking dish, pour the salted caramel sauce evenly over the top, and then drop spoonfuls of the remaining batter over the caramel layer, spreading gently to cover. Sprinkle the sea salt flakes on top and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Let the bars cool completely before slicing to guarantee they hold their shape and the caramel doesn't ooze out.
Extra tips: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature before starting to guarantee a smooth and creamy batter. If you prefer a stronger caramel flavor, feel free to increase the amount of caramel sauce. Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing to achieve clean cuts and maintain the structure of the bars. Enjoy these bars with a cold glass of milk or a hot cup of coffee for the perfect pairing.
Cooking Steps
You're about to commence a delicious journey, so start by preheating your oven to a toasty 350°F—your bars will thank you later!
Next, cream together your butter and sugars until they're as fluffy as a cloud, then invite the eggs and a splash of vanilla extract to join the party.
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into your buttery mixture, layer with gooey caramel, and finally, top with the remaining batter for a tantalizing treat that's sure to impress.
Step 1. Preheat Oven to 350°F
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) to guarantee it's fully preheated by the time you're ready to bake. This temperature is just right for getting those Gooey Salted Caramel Butter Cake Bars to bake evenly, ensuring a perfect texture.
Trust me, having your oven ready and waiting is like having a trusty sidekick—you'll thank yourself later.
While your oven is warming up, take a moment to double-check that your baking dish is greased and ready to go. You don't want to be caught off guard with sticky situations!
A light coating of butter or non-stick spray will do the trick, keeping your bars from sticking and making the cleanup a breeze.
Step 2. Cream Butter and Sugars Together
Creaming the butter and sugars together is an essential step in creating the perfect base for your Gooey Salted Caramel Butter Cake Bars. Grab your mixer and start by making certain your butter is at room temperature. This little trick guarantees it blends smoothly with the sugars, creating a light, fluffy mixture. Think of it as a spa day for your ingredients—everybody gets along better when they're relaxed!
Place one cup of unsalted butter, one cup of granulated sugar, and one cup of brown sugar in a large mixing bowl. Set your mixer to medium speed and let it do its magic. You'll want to mix until you achieve a pale, creamy texture that looks like it could double as frosting. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes, depending on how powerful your mixer is.
Don't worry if you feel like you're channeling your inner DJ with all the mixing; it's all part of the fun!
If you notice any sugar or butter sticking to the sides of the bowl, pause the mixer and scrape it down. This guarantees everything is perfectly incorporated, setting the stage for deliciousness.
Step 3. Add Eggs and Vanilla Extract
With the creamed butter and sugars ready, it's time to enhance the mixture with eggs and vanilla extract. Start by cracking one egg into the bowl, then mix it thoroughly before adding the second. You want each egg to fully incorporate, giving your batter a smoother texture and a richer flavor. Don't rush this step; patience is key! If you're feeling fancy, imagine you're a TV chef, confidently cracking eggs with one hand—practice makes perfect, right?
Next, add in the vanilla extract. The vanilla not only adds a sweet aroma but also elevates the overall flavor profile, making your bars taste like a professional bakery creation. As you pour the vanilla, take a moment to enjoy the delightful scent wafting up from the bowl. It's like aromatherapy, but with a delicious outcome.
Mix everything until the eggs and vanilla are fully blended into the butter-sugar mixture. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to catch any stubborn bits. Your batter should look glossy and smooth, ready for the next steps.
Step 4. Mix in Dry Ingredients Gradually
Having blended the eggs and vanilla into a smooth mixture, it's time to incorporate the dry ingredients. Grab the bowl with your flour, baking powder, and salt, and get ready to mix them into the wet ingredients.
It's important to add the dry ingredients gradually, not all at once, to avoid a flour explosion that'll leave both you and your kitchen looking like a snowstorm hit.
Start by adding about a third of the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until it's just combined. You don't need to channel your inner Hulk here, just a gentle mix will do.
Repeat with another third, and then the final portion. By adding in stages, you'll guarantee everything blends smoothly without clumps. If you're feeling fancy, you can even pretend you're hosting your own cooking show—just remember, the goal is a smooth batter, not a workout.
As you mix, you'll notice the batter becoming thick and creamy. This is exactly what you want.
Once the dry ingredients are fully incorporated, you're ready for the next step. Enjoy this moment of accomplishment; you're one step closer to deliciousness!
Step 5. Layer Caramel and Remaining Batter
Now that your batter is ready, it's time to build the layers of your dessert masterpiece. First, spread half of the batter evenly into your greased baking dish, making sure it covers every corner. Don't worry if it looks a bit thin; it'll rise beautifully.
Next, grab that luscious salted caramel sauce and pour it over the batter, spreading it gently with a spatula. Imagine you're creating a caramel lake, tempting enough for anyone to take a dip!
Now comes the fun part—adding the remaining batter. Drop spoonfuls of the batter over the caramel layer. Yes, it'll look like a patchwork quilt, but that's exactly what you want.
Use your spatula to gently nudge and spread the batter, covering as much of the caramel as possible. It doesn't have to be perfect; those little caramel peeks are what make it extra gooey.
Final Thoughts
Without a doubt, Gooey Salted Caramel Butter Cake Bars are a dessert that will frequently find their way into your baking repertoire. They're not only delicious but also a crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion.
You'll love how simple they're to make, yet they offer a flavor profile that's complex and satisfying. The gooey caramel and buttery cake create a perfect harmony that's hard to resist.
You're bound to impress your friends and family with these bars, and they might even start requesting them for every gathering. The aroma alone, wafting through your kitchen, will have everyone enthusiastically awaiting a taste.
Remember, the key to success is using room-temperature butter and high-quality caramel sauce.
If you're feeling adventurous, try experimenting with different types of caramel or adding a sprinkle of nuts for an extra crunch. The recipe's flexible, allowing you to tweak it to suit your taste.
Plus, serving these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream can elevate them to another level. So, go ahead, embrace your inner baker, and enjoy the delightful experience of making and devouring these irresistible bars!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Different Type of Flour for This Recipe?
You can substitute a different type of flour, like whole wheat or gluten-free, for the all-purpose flour. Just keep in mind, it might slightly alter the texture and flavor. Adjust baking time if necessary. Enjoy experimenting!
How Should I Store Leftover Gooey Salted Caramel Butter Cake Bars?
Store your leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze for up to three months to maintain their delicious texture.
Is It Possible to Make These Bars Without Eggs?
Yes, you can make these bars without eggs. Use applesauce or mashed banana as a substitute for moisture and binding. Adjust the quantity to match the eggs' volume for best results. Enjoy your egg-free version!
Can I Substitute the Salted Caramel Sauce With Homemade Caramel?
Yes, you can substitute with homemade caramel. Just guarantee it's thick enough to hold its shape during baking. Homemade caramel adds a personal touch and you can adjust the sweetness to your liking. Enjoy creating your masterpiece!
What Are Some Dietary Modifications for Gluten-Free or Vegan Options?
You can make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend. For a vegan option, substitute butter with vegan margarine, eggs with flax eggs, and guarantee your caramel sauce is dairy-free. Enjoy your modified treats!
