Soft, gooey, and irresistibly rich, Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars combine buttery cookie dough, melted chocolate chips, and a luscious caramel center finished with delicate sea salt flakes. This easy dessert recipe delivers bakery-style results with minimal effort, making it perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or when you simply crave something unforgettable.

Why You’ll Love These Cookie Bars

There’s something magical about the contrast between sweet caramel and flaky sea salt. These cookie bars are thick, chewy at the edges, soft in the center, and layered with deep caramel flavor. They’re easier than individual cookies, require no chilling, and slice beautifully for serving. One bite feels indulgent. The next feels comforting. And suddenly, the pan is half empty.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 30–35 minutes

Cooling Time: 1 hour

Total Time: About 2 hours

Servings: 16 bars

Kitchen Tools Needed

9×13-inch baking pan
Mixing bowls (large and medium)
Hand mixer or stand mixer
Rubber spatula
Saucepan (for caramel mixture)
Parchment paper
Wire cooling rack

Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup packed light brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2½ cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon sea salt
1 teaspoon baking soda
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

For the Caramel Layer

11 oz soft caramels, unwrapped
14 oz sweetened condensed milk
½ teaspoon sea salt flakes (such as Maldon)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, sea salt, and baking soda.
Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.
Press half of the cookie dough evenly into the prepared baking pan.
In a saucepan over low heat, combine the soft caramels and sweetened condensed milk. Stir continuously until smooth and fully melted.
Pour the warm caramel mixture evenly over the cookie dough layer.
Drop spoonfuls of the remaining cookie dough over the caramel layer and gently spread as much as possible.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and set.
Allow the bars to cool completely before sprinkling sea salt flakes on top and slicing.

Expert Tips for Perfect Texture

• Do not overmix the dough once the flour is added to maintain softness.
• Slightly underbake for gooier centers.
• Let the bars cool fully before cutting to achieve clean slices.
• Warm your knife under hot water for smoother cuts.

Flavor Variations and Add-Ins

• Add chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.
• Use dark chocolate chips for deeper intensity.
• Swirl in a tablespoon of peanut butter for a nutty twist.
• Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to enhance chocolate flavor.

Storage and Reheating

Store cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 1 week. To freeze, wrap individual bars tightly and store for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to restore that fresh-from-the-oven softness.

Approximate Nutrition Per Serving

Calories: 420
Carbohydrates: 58g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 20g
Sugar: 40g
Sodium: 220mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these cookie bars ahead of time? Yes, they can be baked a day in advance and stored tightly covered.
Can I use homemade caramel? Absolutely. Just ensure it has a thick, pourable consistency.
Why is my caramel layer too firm? Overcooking the caramel mixture can make it harder once cooled.
Can I double the recipe? Yes, use two pans or a larger baking sheet and adjust baking time slightly.

Final Tip

Take your time layering the dough and caramel. The beauty of these Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars is in their contrast — crisp edges, soft centers, sweet richness balanced with salt. Bake them once, and they will quickly become a signature dessert in your kitchen.