Gooey Salted Caramel Butter Cake Bars Recipe

Craving a dessert that perfectly balances sweet and salty with an irresistibly gooey texture? These Gooey Salted Caramel Butter Cake Bars are your answer to dessert perfection. With their buttery base, rich caramel center, and delicate sprinkle of sea salt, these bars deliver an indulgent experience in every bite.

I’ve perfected this recipe to create bars that are crispy on the edges, perfectly gooey in the center, and packed with that coveted salted caramel flavor that everyone loves. Follow along for the complete recipe and insider tips to ensure your cake bars turn out absolutely divine every time.

What are “Gooey Salted Caramel Butter Cake Bars”?

Gooey Salted Caramel Butter Cake Bars are a decadent dessert that combines the best of both worlds: the rich, buttery texture of a classic butter cake and the luxurious sweetness of homemade salted caramel. These bars feature a tender, cake-like base that’s infused with vanilla and butter, topped with a layer of gooey salted caramel that creates pockets of molten sweetness throughout.

The magic happens when the cake batter partially bakes around ribbons of caramel, creating that signature “gooey” texture that makes these bars absolutely irresistible. The finishing touch of flaky sea salt enhances the caramel’s complexity and balances the sweetness perfectly.

Unlike traditional caramel bars that can be overly sticky or hard, these maintain the perfect chewy-gooey consistency that makes them easy to cut and serve while still delivering that luxurious mouthfeel everyone craves.

Ingredients List for Gooey Salted Caramel Butter Cake Bars

For the Cake Base:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
• 1½ cups light brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup whole milk

For the Salted Caramel:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed
• ½ cup heavy cream, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon sea salt, plus extra for sprinkling

For Finishing:

• Flaky sea salt for sprinkling
• Optional: ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts

How to Make Gooey Salted Caramel Butter Cake Bars: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating these decadent bars requires attention to detail and proper timing. Here’s my comprehensive guide to ensure perfect results:

1. Prepare Your Caramel First:

• Heat granulated sugar in a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon.
• Continue cooking until the sugar melts completely and turns a deep amber color, about 8-10 minutes.
• Remove from heat and immediately whisk in the cubed butter until smooth.
• Slowly pour in the heavy cream while whisking continuously (mixture will bubble vigorously).
• Stir in vanilla extract and sea salt, then set aside to cool while preparing the cake base.

2. Set Up Your Baking Environment:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
• Lightly grease the parchment paper with butter or cooking spray.

3. Make the Cake Batter:

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and brown sugar until well combined.
• Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
• Mix in the vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and glossy.

4. Combine Dry Ingredients:

• In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
• Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with the milk.
• Mix just until combined; avoid overmixing to ensure tender bars.

5. Assemble and Bake:

• Spread half of the cake batter evenly in the prepared pan.
• Drizzle half of the cooled caramel over the batter, then dollop the remaining batter on top.
• Use a knife to create swirls, marbling the caramel throughout the batter.
• Drizzle the remaining caramel over the top and sprinkle with flaky sea salt.

6. Bake to Perfection:

• Bake for 28-32 minutes, until the edges are set and lightly golden.
• The center should still look slightly underbaked for that perfect gooey texture.
• Cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.

Substitutions and Variations

Customize these Gooey Salted Caramel Butter Cake Bars to suit your preferences or dietary needs with these tried-and-tested variations:

• Flour Options: Replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for celiac-friendly bars.
• Sugar Alternatives: Substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar for a deeper, more complex flavor profile.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use vegan butter and coconut cream in place of dairy products, ensuring all ingredients are at room temperature.
• Flavor Enhancements: Add 1 tablespoon of bourbon or rum to the caramel for an adult twist, or incorporate 1 teaspoon of espresso powder for mocha notes.
• Texture Add-ins: Fold in chocolate chips, chopped pecans, or toffee bits for extra texture and flavor complexity.
• Caramel Shortcuts: If pressed for time, use high-quality store-bought caramel sauce, though homemade delivers superior flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Prevent these frequent pitfalls to ensure your Gooey Salted Caramel Butter Cake Bars turn out perfectly every time:

• Overcooking the Caramel: Stop cooking as soon as the sugar reaches a deep amber color; overcooking creates bitter flavors and a hard texture.
• Adding Cold Cream: Room temperature cream prevents the caramel from seizing and ensures a smooth consistency.
• Overbaking the Bars: The center should appear slightly underbaked when you remove them from the oven; they’ll continue cooking as they cool.
• Cutting Too Soon: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to prevent them from falling apart and to achieve clean edges.
• Uneven Caramel Distribution: Take time to properly swirl the caramel through the batter for consistent flavor in every bite.
• Skipping the Parchment Paper: This makes removal from the pan much easier and prevents sticking.

How to Serve Gooey Salted Caramel Butter Cake Bars

These versatile bars are perfect for various occasions and can be served in multiple ways. For casual gatherings, cut them into generous squares and serve on a platter with napkins, as they’re delightfully finger-friendly.

For more elegant presentations, serve smaller squares on individual dessert plates with a dollop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of additional warm caramel sauce. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a beautiful finishing touch.

These bars pair wonderfully with coffee, tea, or cold milk. For special occasions, consider serving them alongside fresh berries or a small scoop of salted caramel ice cream to enhance the flavor profile.

Presentation Ideas for Gooey Salted Caramel Butter Cake Bars

Elevate your Gooey Salted Caramel Butter Cake Bars with these stunning presentation techniques:

• Elegant Plating: Serve individual squares on white dessert plates with a artistic drizzle of caramel sauce and a few flakes of sea salt artfully scattered around the plate.
• Layered Display: Create height by stacking bars on a tiered serving stand, alternating with decorative parchment paper for a bakery-style presentation.
• Garnish Options: Top each square with a small dollop of whipped cream, a candied pecan, or a delicate mint leaf for color contrast and added sophistication.
• Rustic Charm: Serve directly from the pan with vintage-style serving utensils for a homey, comfort-food aesthetic that’s perfect for family gatherings.

Gooey Salted Caramel Butter Cake Bars Recipe Tips

Master these professional tips to take your bars from good to absolutely extraordinary:

• Temperature Matters: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before beginning; this creates better incorporation and a smoother batter.
• Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality vanilla extract and real butter for the best flavor development.
• Caramel Consistency: The perfect caramel should coat the back of a spoon but still pour easily; if it’s too thick, warm it gently before using.
• Even Baking: Rotate your pan halfway through baking to ensure even browning and cooking.
• Storage Strategy: If making ahead, underbake slightly as they’ll continue to set during storage.
• Cutting Clean: Use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts, or chill the bars for 30 minutes before cutting for the cleanest edges.

How to Store Gooey Salted Caramel Butter Cake Bars

Proper storage ensures your bars maintain their perfect gooey texture and rich flavor. Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature before covering tightly with plastic wrap or transferring to an airtight container.

Store at room temperature for up to 3 days, though they’re best enjoyed within the first 48 hours when the texture is at its peak. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to one week, but bring to room temperature before serving to restore the ideal texture.

These bars also freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. Wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make these bars ahead of time for a party?
A: Absolutely! These bars actually improve in flavor after 24 hours. Make them a day ahead and store covered at room temperature for the best results.

Q: Why did my caramel turn hard instead of staying gooey?
A: This usually happens when the caramel is overcooked or cooled too much before adding to the batter. Make sure to use the caramel while it’s still warm and pourable.

Q: Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
A: Yes! Double all ingredients and use two 9×13 pans, or bake in a large sheet pan, adjusting the baking time accordingly.

Q: What’s the best way to get clean cuts?
A: Chill the bars for 30 minutes, then use a sharp knife dipped in warm water and wiped clean between each cut.

Q: Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
A: While homemade is preferred, you can use high-quality jarred caramel. Look for varieties without too many additives, and warm it slightly before using.

Q: How do I know when the bars are perfectly baked?
A: The edges should be set and lightly golden, while the center appears slightly underbaked. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out with a few moist crumbs.

Conclusion

These Gooey Salted Caramel Butter Cake Bars represent the perfect marriage of sweet and salty, gooey and tender, simple and sophisticated. I’ve shared all my secrets for creating bars that will have everyone asking for the recipe, from the perfectly balanced caramel to the ideal baking technique that ensures that coveted gooey center.

Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, bringing a dessert to share, or simply treating yourself to something extraordinary, these bars deliver on every level. The combination of buttery cake base, rich homemade caramel, and that final sprinkle of sea salt creates a dessert experience that’s truly unforgettable.

Take your time with each step, especially the caramel-making process, and don’t be afraid to let that center stay slightly underbaked – that’s where the magic happens. With these detailed instructions and insider tips, you’re well-equipped to create bakery-quality bars in your own kitchen. Happy baking, and prepare to fall in love with your new favorite dessert!