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.