Homemade Caramel Bars: A Decadent Treat You Can Make at Home

How to Make Homemade Caramel Bars
Follow these simple steps to create these irresistible caramel bars in your own kitchen:
Step 1: Prepare the Base

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
2. Mix the Base Ingredients:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, flour, and salt. Stir until the mixture is well combined and resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Press into the Pan:
   • Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan, ensuring it reaches all corners and is evenly distributed.
4. Bake the Base:
   • Bake the base in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until it turns a light golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Caramel Layer

1. Melt the Butter:
   • In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add Sugar, Syrup, and Milk:
   • Stir in the brown sugar, corn syrup, and sweetened condensed milk. Continue to cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it begins to boil.
3. Cook the Caramel:
   • Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and continue to cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring constantly, until the caramel thickens and reaches a rich golden color.
4. Add Vanilla:
   • Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Pour the Caramel:
   • Pour the caramel over the cooled base, spreading it evenly. Allow the caramel to cool and set for about 30 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Topping

1. Melt the Chocolate:
   • In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and vegetable oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
2. Spread the Chocolate:
   • Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula or the back of a spoon.
3. Chill and Set:
   • Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate is fully set.

Step 4: Slice and Serve

1. Remove from Pan:
   • Once the bars are fully set, use the parchment paper overhang to lift them out of the pan.
2. Slice the Bars:
   • Using a sharp knife, cut the bars into squares or rectangles. For clean slices, wipe the knife with a warm, damp cloth between cuts.
3. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Serve the caramel bars at room temperature, and enjoy the perfect blend of buttery base, chewy caramel, and rich chocolate in every bite.

Tips for the Perfect Caramel Bars

• Use High-Quality Chocolate: For the best flavor, use high-quality chocolate chips or a chopped chocolate bar.
• Chill Before Slicing: Make sure the bars are fully chilled before slicing to ensure clean, even cuts.
• Store Properly: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also refrigerate them for a slightly firmer texture.