Gooey Caramel Coffee Bars

Introduction

There’s something undeniably comforting about the combination of coffee and caramel. These Gooey Caramel Coffee Bars have become a staple in my household, perfect for a sweet afternoon treat or as a delightful dessert after dinner. The rich caramel layer perfectly complements the buttery crust, and the hint of coffee adds an unexpected twist that keeps everyone coming back for more. My family absolutely loves these bars, and I often find them disappearing within hours of baking. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser that’s both indulgent and easy to make, look no further!

Ingredients

For the Base:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Caramel Layer:

• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons instant coffee granules
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Sea salt, for sprinkling

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Make the Base: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing until just combined.
3. Press the Dough: Evenly press the dough into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
4. Prepare the Caramel Layer: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, heavy cream, and instant coffee granules. Stir constantly until the mixture thickens and starts to pull away from the sides of the pan, about 10-15 minutes.
5. Add Vanilla: Remove the caramel mixture from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
6. Combine Layers: Pour the caramel mixture over the baked crust, spreading it evenly.
7. Sprinkle with Sea Salt: Finish off by sprinkling a pinch of sea salt over the top.
8. Cool and Slice: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 16 bars
• Calories: 310 kcal per serving

Nutritional Breakdown (per serving):

• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 100mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 39g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 35mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

How to Serve

• Warm or Cold: These bars can be served warm right out of the oven or at room temperature.
• Accompaniments: Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat.
• Drizzle: Drizzle with extra caramel sauce or chocolate sauce for a more decadent dessert.

Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your ingredients, especially the butter and cream, are fresh for the best flavor.
2. Watch the Caramel: Keep an eye on the caramel mixture while it thickens to avoid burning. Stir constantly!
3. Customize the Coffee Flavor: Adjust the amount of instant coffee granules to suit your taste preference; you can even substitute with espresso powder for a stronger flavor.
4. Let it Cool: Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing for cleaner edges.
5. Store Properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Recipe Variations

• Nutty Version: Add chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the caramel layer for added crunch.
• Chocolate Swirl: Swirl in some melted chocolate into the caramel mixture before pouring it over the crust for a chocolate-coffee version.
• Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the crust or caramel layer for a warm, spiced flavor.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with a dairy-free option and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these bars gluten-free.

Serving Suggestions

• Coffee Pairing: Serve these bars with a cup of coffee or espresso to complement the coffee flavor in the dessert.
• Breakfast Treat: They also make a delightful breakfast option, especially paired with a fresh fruit salad.
• Potluck Dessert: Cut them into smaller squares and take them to gatherings or potlucks for a delicious shareable treat.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: To freeze, wrap the cooled bars tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Thawing: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bring to room temperature before serving.
• Room Temperature Storage: Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use different types of sugar?
   Yes, you can experiment with different sugars, but it may affect the flavor and texture.
2. Can I use another type of coffee?
   Absolutely! Brewed coffee or espresso can be used instead of instant coffee.
3. How do I know when the caramel is ready?
   It should be thickened and pull away from the sides of the pan.
4. Can I add chocolate to the bars?
   Yes, you can fold in chocolate chips into the caramel mixture or drizzle melted chocolate on top before serving.
5. What if I don’t have heavy cream?
   You can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the bars may be less rich.
6. Is there a non-dairy substitute for sweetened condensed milk?
   Yes, you can find dairy-free versions of sweetened condensed milk or make your own using coconut milk.
7. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
   Yes, they can be made a day in advance and stored covered at room temperature.
8. What other toppings can I use?
   Try adding crushed cookies, nuts, or a dusting of cocoa powder for variety.
9. Can I make them smaller?
   Yes, you can cut them into smaller squares for bite-sized treats.
10. What should I do if the bars are too gooey?
    If they are too gooey, they may need to cool longer or bake a few minutes longer next time.

Conclusion

These Gooey Caramel Coffee Bars are not just a treat; they are an experience. The layers of buttery crust, rich caramel, and the perfect sprinkle of sea salt create a delightful balance that is hard to resist. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering, enjoying them with a morning coffee, or simply indulging yourself, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Try them out and enjoy the rave reviews from family and friends!

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