Ingredients:

For the crust and topping:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
For the caramel filling:

1 cup unsalted butter
1 cup granulated sugar
4 tablespoons light corn syrup
2 tablespoons vanilla extract
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1 tablespoon flaky sea salt

Instructions:

1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and line with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.

2️⃣ In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar together until creamy and smooth.

3️⃣ Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.

4️⃣ Press half of the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let it cool slightly.

5️⃣ While the crust is baking, make the caramel filling. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and vanilla extract. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture begins to boil.

6️⃣ Reduce the heat to low and add the sweetened condensed milk. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, for about 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens and turns a golden caramel color.

7️⃣ Pour the caramel filling evenly over the baked crust. Sprinkle the flaky sea salt over the caramel.

8️⃣ Crumble the remaining dough over the caramel layer, pressing lightly to adhere.

9️⃣ Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden.

🔟 Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares and enjoy your Salted Caramel Butter Bars!

Prep Time: 20min | Cooking Time: 45-50min | Total Time: 1h 10min
Kcal: 400 Kcal | Servings: 24 bars