Salted Caramel Chocolate Sugar Cookie Bars — Gooey Dessert

When fall rolls in, I turn into a walking coffee shop menu. The moment I see the words Salted Caramel Mocha Latte or Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew, my heart does a little happy dance. Don’t get me wrong — pumpkin coffee has its place — but salted caramel? That’s my ride-or-die flavor. Sweet, salty, buttery perfection.

So naturally, I brought that magic into my kitchen. And the result? Salted Caramel Chocolate Sugar Cookie Bars that might just be the most addictive treat you’ll bake all year. Imagine a pan of rich chocolate cookie bars smothered in silky salted caramel frosting, topped with a sprinkle of coarse sea salt. Yeah, it’s as dangerous as it sounds.

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Why This Recipe Is a Game Changer

Let’s be real — rolling out dough is overrated. Ever since I discovered the joy of pressing cookie dough straight into a pan and frosting it all in one go, my cookie cutters have been on permanent vacation. Zero fuss, zero mess, and 100% delicious.

These bars have everything: chewy texture, deep cocoa flavor, and that sweet-salty caramel swirl that makes your taste buds throw a party. They’re like Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars, but without the tedious step of scooping individual cookies.

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The Flavor Inspiration

I wanted something that channeled the same cozy indulgence as a salted caramel latte but in dessert form. And while I’ve made plenty of Caramel Dessert Recipes before — from Choc Chip Caramel Cookie Bars to Salted Caramel Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars — this batch hits differently. The cocoa base is rich but not overpowering, making the caramel frosting shine.

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How to Make Them (Without Losing Your Mind)

Baking these is a breeze — and trust me, if you can cream butter and sugar together, you’re already halfway there.

1. Cream It Up – Beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add the Good Stuff – Egg, vanilla, milk. Beat again until smooth.
3. Dry Meets Wet – Mix flour, cocoa, baking powder, and salt in another bowl. Slowly combine until you have a soft dough. Pro tip: Use a stand mixer — your arms will thank you.
4. Pan It and Bake – Press the dough evenly into a greased pan. Bake about 14 minutes, then let it cool completely.
5. Frost Like a Boss – Slather on the salted caramel frosting, sprinkle sea salt, and try not to “accidentally” eat half before serving.

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Pro Storage Tips

• Make Ahead – These bars actually taste better the next day. The flavors have time to mingle, and the texture becomes extra soft.
• Room Temp Storage – Keep them in a tightly sealed container. They’ll stay fresh and chewy longer.
• Freezer Friendly – Freeze unfrosted bars for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight, frost, and serve. You can freeze frosted ones too, just wrap well.

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Serving Ideas

These aren’t just for casual snacking (although, no judgment if you keep a stash for “emergencies”). They’re perfect for:

• Office potlucks
• Holiday dessert tables
• That friend who says they “don’t really like dessert” (you’ll convert them)

They also make a stellar addition to a Caramel Desserts platter alongside brownies, Lemon Sugar Cookies, and truffles.

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The Sweet & Salty Effect

If you’ve ever tasted the magic of Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Bars or the comfort of Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars, you know the combo is unbeatable. The salt sharpens the sweetness, making each bite richer and more satisfying.

And let’s be honest — no one’s turning down an extra sprinkle of coarse sea salt. That final flourish? It’s the difference between “Oh, these are good” and “I need the recipe right now.”

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One Pan Wonder – Less cleanup, more eating.
• Crowd-Pleaser – Sweet-salty balance works for every palate.
• Customizable – Swap in white chocolate drizzle, chopped nuts, or even crushed pretzels for extra texture.

I’ve made dozens of variations on sugar cookie bars over the years, but this one? It’s the dessert equivalent of that perfect fall sweater — cozy, reliable, and makes you feel a little extra special.

So whether you’re in the mood for something that rivals your favorite coffeehouse treat or just want a foolproof dessert to wow your people, these Salted Caramel Chocolate Sugar Cookie Bars are it.

Bake them once, and I’m betting they’ll earn a permanent spot in your Caramel Dessert Recipes collection — right next to those beloved Choc Chip Caramel Cookie Bars. Just don’t blame me when you find yourself making them “just because” on a random Tuesday.

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