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
- 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.
- 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.
- Press into the Pan:
- Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan, ensuring it reaches all corners and is evenly distributed.
- 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
- Melt the Butter:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- 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.
- 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.
- Add Vanilla:
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- 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
- 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.
- Spread the Chocolate:
- Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula or the back of a spoon.
- 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
- Remove from Pan:
- Once the bars are fully set, use the parchment paper overhang to lift them out of the pan.
- 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.
- 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.
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