Indulge in the ultimate layering of sweet, buttery decadence with these irresistible Chocolate Toffee Caramel Bars! Featuring a tender, buttery shortbread base, a luscious homemade caramel layer, and a velvety blanket of melted semisweet chocolate topped with crunchy toffee bits, these bars are a dessert lover's dream. The addition of flaky sea salt enhances the flavor profile, delivering a delightful balance of sweet and salty. Perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or as a treat for yourself, these bars combine simple ingredients like sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, and chocolate chips into a stunningly rich and crowd-pleasing dessert. Ready in under an hour, this recipe is as easy as it is satisfying, with each bite offering a perfect harmony of textures and flavors. Perfect for those searching for decadent dessert bars or caramel chocolate treats to impress!
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang for easy removal.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt using a hand or stand mixer until light and fluffy.
Gradually add the flour to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft, crumbly dough forms.
Press the dough evenly into the lined baking pan and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Set aside to cool slightly.
In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, heavy cream, and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
Stir constantly as the mixture heats, ensuring the sugar dissolves. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 5-7 minutes, or until thickened and slightly golden.
Pour the caramel mixture over the partially cooled shortbread layer, spreading evenly. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the caramel is set.
Sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the hot caramel layer. Let sit for 2-3 minutes to allow the chocolate to melt, then use an offset spatula to spread the chocolate into a smooth, even layer.
Immediately sprinkle the toffee bits on top of the melted chocolate, pressing lightly to adhere. If desired, sprinkle with flaky sea salt for added contrast of flavor.
Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature. Once cool, transfer to the fridge for 1-2 hours to set fully.
Lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment overhang, then cut into 16 squares or rectangles.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the fridge for up to 10 days.
Calories |
6401 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 334.9 g | 429% | |
| Saturated Fat | 209.7 g | 1048% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 682 mg | 227% | |
| Sodium | 2735 mg | 119% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 813.9 g | 296% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 30.5 g | 109% | |
| Total Sugars | 606.2 g | ||
| Protein | 82.3 g | 165% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.8 mcg | 4% | |
| Calcium | 1534 mg | 118% | |
| Iron | 24.8 mg | 138% | |
| Potassium | 3122 mg | 66% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.