Quick and Easy Gooey Salted Caramel Butter Cake Bars Recipe

These Gooey Salted Caramel Butter Cake Bars are the ultimate indulgence, combining rich, buttery cake layers with a luscious, gooey caramel center. With a perfect balance of sweetness and saltiness, these bars make an irresistible treat for any occasion. Best of all, they come together quickly with simple ingredients, making them perfect for last-minute dessert cravings or special gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation – Requires basic pantry staples and minimal prep time.
• Rich and Decadent – Features a gooey caramel filling that perfectly complements the buttery cake base.
• Versatile – Easily customizable with chocolate chips, nuts, or extra sea salt.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for potlucks, holidays, or everyday indulgence.

Ingredients

For the Cake Base:

• 1 box yellow cake mix
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg

For the Caramel Layer:

• 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
• 10 ounces soft caramel candies, unwrapped
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt

For the Topping:

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Additional sea salt for sprinkling (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Base

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and egg. Stir until a soft dough forms.
3. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
4. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Caramel Layer

1. In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk, unwrapped caramel candies, and butter.
2. Stir continuously until the caramels are completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the sea salt.
4. Pour the caramel mixture evenly over the baked cake layer.

Step 3: Prepare the Topping

1. In a small bowl, mix the flour, brown sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract until crumbly.
2. Sprinkle the crumble mixture over the caramel layer.
3. Lightly sprinkle additional sea salt on top, if desired.

Step 4: Bake and Cool

1. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the topping is golden brown.
2. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely before cutting into bars.
3. Serve at room temperature or slightly warm for extra gooeyness.

Variations and Additions

• Chocolate Lovers – Add a handful of chocolate chips to the caramel layer.
• Nutty Crunch – Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the topping.
• Extra Saltiness – Use flaky sea salt for a stronger contrast of flavors.
• Spiced Version – Mix a pinch of cinnamon into the caramel for a warm, spiced note.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes approximately 16 bars
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Cooling Time: 1 hour

Storage and Reheating

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerate for up to a week for a firmer texture.
• Warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving for a gooey center.

FAQs

How do I keep the caramel from hardening?

Ensure you don’t overcook the caramel. Stir constantly over low heat, and remove it from heat as soon as it’s smooth.

Can I use homemade caramel sauce?

Yes, but make sure it’s thick enough to set properly in the bars.

Can I freeze these bars?

Yes! Wrap them individually and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

What if I don’t have a yellow cake mix?

You can substitute with a homemade mix using 1 1/2 cups flour, 1 cup sugar, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, and a pinch of salt.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but adjust the sea salt accordingly to avoid making the bars too salty.

How can I make these bars chewier?

Use less flour in the topping or reduce baking time slightly for a softer texture.

Are these bars gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can use a gluten-free yellow cake mix and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but use two 9×13-inch pans for even baking.

What’s the best way to cut these bars cleanly?

Chill the bars for about 30 minutes before slicing with a sharp knife.

Can I add a drizzle on top?

Absolutely! Drizzle with melted chocolate or extra caramel sauce for extra decadence.

Conclusion

These Gooey Salted Caramel Butter Cake Bars are a dream for caramel lovers. With their easy preparation, rich texture, and perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors, they’re bound to become a household favorite. Whether for a party, a cozy night in, or as a special homemade gift, this dessert is always a hit. Try them today and enjoy every delicious bite!

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