There’s something truly comforting about baking simple treats that fill the kitchen with warmth and sweetness. These Salted Caramel Butter Bars are one of those recipes that instantly make you feel at home. Rich, buttery layers paired with smooth caramel and a touch of salt create a dessert that’s both indulgent and perfectly balanced.
I love making these bars when I need something easy yet impressive. They’re great for casual snacking, family gatherings, or setting out on a dessert table at parties. No fancy techniques, no complicated steps — just classic ingredients coming together to create something irresistible.
If you enjoy desserts that feel homemade, cozy, and crowd-pleasing, this recipe is going to become a favorite.
Why Make These Salted Caramel Butter Bars
These butter bars are simple, rich, and incredibly satisfying.
- Easy to make with pantry staples
- Soft, buttery texture with gooey caramel
- Perfect for parties, bake sales, or snacks
- Easy to slice and transport
- Sweet and salty flavors everyone loves
They’re the kind of dessert that disappears fast, so you may want to make a double batch.
How to Make Salted Caramel Butter Bars
This recipe is made in layers and comes together quicker than you might expect.
Ingredients:
For the Butter Crust & Topping
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Caramel Filling
- 1 cup caramel sauce (thick, good quality)
- ½ teaspoon flaky sea salt
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix melted butter, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Add flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Press about two-thirds of the dough evenly into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 15 minutes until lightly golden.
- Remove from oven and spread caramel sauce evenly over the baked crust.
- Sprinkle caramel layer with flaky sea salt.
- Crumble remaining dough evenly over the caramel layer.
- Return to oven and bake for 25–30 minutes until the top is golden.
- Cool completely before slicing into bars.
How to Serve Salted Caramel Butter Bars
These bars are best served once fully cooled so the caramel sets nicely.
- Serve as bite-sized squares for parties
- Pair with coffee or tea for an afternoon snack
- Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat
They’re rich, so small pieces go a long way.
How to Store Salted Caramel Butter Bars
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days
- Refrigerate for up to 5 days for a firmer texture
- Freeze for up to 1 month, well wrapped
Tips to Make Salted Caramel Butter Bars Perfect
- Use thick caramel sauce so it doesn’t run
- Let bars cool completely before cutting
- Line the pan for easy removal
- Sprinkle salt lightly — a little goes a long way
Variations
- Add chocolate chips to the caramel layer
- Use brown sugar instead of white sugar for deeper flavor
- Swirl in peanut butter with the caramel
- Add chopped nuts for crunch
FAQs
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
Yes, just make sure it’s thick and good quality.
Can these bars be made ahead of time?
Absolutely. They’re perfect for making a day in advance.
Do these bars need refrigeration?
Not immediately, but refrigeration helps them set and last longer.
Conclusion
These Salted Caramel Butter Bars are everything a good homemade dessert should be — simple, rich, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re making them for a party or just to enjoy during the week, they always bring smiles and empty plates.
I hope you give this recipe a try and share it with the people you love. Sometimes the easiest desserts become the most memorable.
Salted Caramel Butter Bars
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula
Ingredients
Butter Crust & Crumble Topping
- 1 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
Caramel Filling
- 1 cup caramel sauce thick, good quality
- 1/2 tsp flaky sea salt for sprinkling
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix melted butter, sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Add flour and salt. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Press about two-thirds of the dough evenly into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 15 minutes until lightly golden.
- Spread caramel sauce evenly over the baked crust. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
- Crumble the remaining dough evenly over the caramel layer.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the top is golden.
- Cool completely before slicing into bars for the cleanest cuts.