Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Make the Crust: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add the flour, graham cracker crumbs, and salt, mixing until combined. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Bake the Crust: Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until it turns golden brown. Once baked, remove it from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Caramel Filling: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, condensed milk, butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir constantly until the mixture comes to a gentle boil. Allow it to simmer for 5 minutes, stirring continuously until thickened.
- Assemble the Bars: Pour the caramel filling over the baked crust, spreading it evenly. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
- Cool and Cut: Once baked, remove the bars from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, cut them into squares or rectangles.
- Serve and Enjoy: These caramel bars are delicious on their own, but you can also drizzle them with melted chocolate or sprinkle sea salt on top for an extra touch of flavor. Serve them at parties or enjoy them as an everyday treat!
Tips for Success
- Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also refrigerate them for a firmer texture.
- Variations: Try adding chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, to the crust for added crunch. You can also experiment with different flavorings in the caramel, such as a hint of cinnamon or espresso.
Conclusion
Homemade caramel bars are not just a dessert; they are a labor of love that brings warmth and sweetness to any gathering. With their gooey filling and buttery crust, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your home. So gather your ingredients and treat yourself and your loved ones to a batch of these irresistible delights!
Feel free to adjust any part of the article or let me know if you’d like to add more details!
