These Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are the perfect combination of chewy, gooey, and rich flavors. A buttery cookie base is loaded with chocolate chips and layered with luscious caramel, making every bite irresistible. Whether you need a dessert for a gathering or just want to indulge, these bars are a surefire hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to make – No need to scoop individual cookies; just layer and bake.
Irresistible texture – A chewy cookie base with gooey caramel filling.
Perfect for any occasion – Great for parties, potlucks, or a sweet treat at home.
Make-ahead friendly – These bars store well and taste even better the next day.
Customizable – Easily switch up the ingredients for different flavors.

Ingredients

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

Butter
Brown sugar
Granulated sugar
Eggs
Vanilla extract
All-purpose flour
Baking soda
Salt
Chocolate chips
Caramel candies or caramel sauce
Heavy cream

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
Prepare the cookie dough by creaming together butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
Whisk together dry ingredients – flour, baking soda, and salt – then gradually mix into the wet ingredients.
Fold in chocolate chips and divide the dough into two portions.
Press half of the dough into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Melt caramel candies with heavy cream until smooth, then pour over the cookie dough layer.
Top with the remaining dough, spreading it evenly over the caramel layer.
Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and set.
Cool completely before slicing into bars for best results.

Servings and Timing

Servings: Makes about 12-16 bars
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

Nutty Twist – Add chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
Salted Caramel – Sprinkle sea salt over the caramel layer for a sweet-salty contrast.
Peanut Butter – Swirl in peanut butter with the caramel for a richer flavor.
Dark Chocolate – Use dark chocolate chips for a more intense chocolate taste.
Gluten-Free – Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Keep the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
Refrigeration: Store in the fridge for up to a week for a firmer texture.
Freezing: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore gooeyness.

FAQs

How do I prevent the caramel from leaking out?

Make sure to leave a small border around the edges when adding the caramel layer to prevent it from oozing out.

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of melting candies?

Yes, just ensure it’s a thick caramel sauce to avoid making the bars too runny.

What’s the best way to cut these bars neatly?

Chill them in the fridge for an hour before cutting with a sharp knife for clean slices.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars taste even better the next day after the flavors meld.

Can I use white chocolate chips instead?

Yes! White chocolate adds a sweet contrast to the caramel flavor.

Do I have to use heavy cream for melting the caramel?

While heavy cream works best, you can use milk or half-and-half as a substitute.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger baking dish and adjust the baking time accordingly.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The top should be golden brown, and the edges slightly firm. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out with a few moist crumbs.

Can I add oats to the dough?

Yes! Adding ½ cup of oats gives the bars a heartier texture.

Will these bars stay soft over time?

Yes, if stored properly in an airtight container, they will remain soft and chewy.

Conclusion

Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are an easy, delicious dessert that combines the best flavors of chocolate chip cookies with gooey caramel. Whether you’re making them for a party, a holiday treat, or just because, they’re guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Try them out and enjoy every bite!