Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are the perfect combination of chewy, buttery cookie dough, rich caramel, melty chocolate chips, and a touch of flaky sea salt. These indulgent bars are easy to make and perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a dessert for a party, a bake sale, or just a sweet treat to enjoy at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sweet and salty balance – The perfect mix of gooey caramel, rich chocolate, and flaky sea salt.
Thick and chewy texture – Soft in the center with slightly crisp edges.
Easy to make – No need to scoop individual cookies—just press into a pan and bake!
Crowd-pleaser – Great for gatherings, potlucks, and bake sales.
Make-ahead friendly – Tastes even better the next day as flavors meld.

Ingredients

Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cookie Dough

Unsalted butter (melted)
Brown sugar
Granulated sugar
Eggs
Vanilla extract
All-purpose flour
Baking soda
Salt
Semi-sweet chocolate chips

For the Caramel Layer

Soft caramel candies (or caramel bits)
Heavy cream
Flaky sea salt (for sprinkling)

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

Preheat oven: Set to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Mix wet ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth. Add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
Add dry ingredients: Stir in flour, baking soda, and salt until just combined. Fold in chocolate chips.

Step 2: Prepare the Caramel Layer

Melt the caramel: In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the caramel candies with heavy cream, stirring until smooth.

Step 3: Assemble the Bars

Press half of the cookie dough evenly into the prepared baking pan.
Pour the caramel sauce evenly over the dough and sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
Top with remaining cookie dough, gently pressing to cover the caramel layer.

Step 4: Bake

Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and set.
Cool completely before slicing into bars.

Step 5: Serve

Slice into squares and enjoy as is or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12-16 bars
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Nutty Addition: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
Extra Chocolatey: Use a mix of milk and dark chocolate chips.
Peanut Butter Twist: Swirl in peanut butter with the caramel layer.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Storage & Reheating

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw before serving.
Reheating: Microwave for 10-15 seconds for a warm, gooey texture.

FAQs

Can I use homemade caramel?

Yes! A homemade caramel sauce works just as well.

How do I keep the caramel from sticking when slicing?

Lightly grease the knife or chill the bars before cutting.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! They taste even better the next day.

What’s the best chocolate to use?

Semi-sweet chocolate chips work best, but dark chocolate adds depth.

How do I get a gooier texture?

Slightly underbake them and let them set as they cool.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, just reduce the added salt slightly.

How do I make them dairy-free?

Use dairy-free butter, chocolate, and coconut cream instead of heavy cream.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Use a larger pan or bake in two separate batches.

What’s the best way to serve these?

Warm with a drizzle of caramel and a scoop of ice cream.

Can I add coffee flavor?

Yes! Add 1 teaspoon of espresso powder for a mocha twist.

Conclusion

Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are an easy-to-make, decadent treat that brings together gooey caramel, rich chocolate, and a perfect sprinkle of flaky sea salt. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because, these bars are guaranteed to be a hit. Try them today and enjoy the perfect balance of sweet and salty goodness!