Chocolate Caramel Bars (Print Version)
Ingredients:
01 -
1 cup unsalted butter, melted.
02 -
1 cup brown sugar, packed.
03 -
1/2 cup granulated sugar.
04 -
2 large eggs.
05 -
2 tsp vanilla extract.
06 -
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour.
07 -
1/2 tsp baking soda.
08 -
1/4 tsp salt.
09 -
2 cups chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate).
10 -
1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade).
11 -
1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional).
Instructions:
01 -
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
02 -
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
03 -
Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well.
04 -
Gradually add the flour, baking soda, and salt, stirring until just combined. Fold in 1 1/2 cups of the chocolate chips.
05 -
Spread half of the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
06 -
Pour the caramel sauce evenly over the batter layer. If using, sprinkle chopped pecans over the caramel.
07 -
Drop spoonfuls of the remaining batter over the caramel layer and gently spread to cover.
08 -
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of chocolate chips on top.
09 -
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean.
10 -
Let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing. For cleaner cuts, refrigerate for 30 minutes before cutting. Drizzle extra caramel sauce on top for added indulgence, if desired.
Notes:
01 -
For the best texture, let the bars cool completely before slicing to avoid a gooey mess.
02 -
Add chopped pecans for extra crunch and flavor, or drizzle extra caramel sauce on top for more decadence.