Name: Boozy Salted Caramel Bars Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour; 1/2 cup Brown Sugar; 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar; 1/4 tsp Salt; 3/4 cup Cold Butter, cubed; 1 cup Salted Caramel Sauce; 1–2 tbsp Bourbon, Rum, or Irish Cream (your choice of alcohol); 1/4 cup Chocolate or Dark Chocolate Chips (for drizzle)

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Introduction

Boozy Salted Caramel Bars combine a tender, crumbly crust with a rich, caramel center infused with your favorite alcohol. These bars offer a perfect balance of sweetness and warmth, making them an irresistible treat for adults and special occasions.

The image shows several rectangular dessert bars with three distinct layers arranged on a surface with white marbled texture. The bottom layer is light beige and crumbly, resembling a shortbread crust. The middle layer is thick, smooth, and caramel-colored with a shiny texture. The top layer is dark brown, glossy, and appears to be a firm chocolate ganache, sprinkled generously with coarse white sea salt crystals that add texture and contrast. The bars are neatly cut, with sharp edges and a clean finish, highlighting the clear separation of each layer. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup brown sugar
¼ cup granulated sugar
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
1 cup salted caramel sauce
1 to 2 tablespoons bourbon, rum, or Irish cream (your choice)
¼ cup chocolate or dark chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: In a bowl, mix together the flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 3: Press half of the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden.
Step 4: While the crust bakes, whisk the salted caramel sauce with 1 to 2 tablespoons of your chosen alcohol until smooth and well combined.
Step 5: Remove the crust from the oven and pour the boozy caramel mixture evenly over it.
Step 6: Scatter the remaining crumb mixture over the caramel layer in clumps, covering it partially.
Step 7: Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 15 to 18 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
Step 8: Let the bars cool completely in the pan, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set before slicing into bars.
Step 9: If desired, melt the chocolate chips and drizzle over the cooled bars for an extra layer of richness.

Tips & Variations

Use high-quality salted caramel sauce for the best flavor, or make your own for a homemade touch.
Adjust the amount of alcohol to taste—start with 1 tablespoon for subtle warmth or up to 2 tablespoons for a stronger boozy kick.
Try different alcohols like bourbon, dark rum, or Irish cream to vary the flavor profile.
For a nutty crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on the caramel layer before adding the crumb topping.

Storage

Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat briefly in the microwave to soften before serving, or enjoy them chilled for a firmer texture.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of three rectangular dessert bars arranged neatly on a white plate, placed on a white marbled surface. Each bar has three distinct layers: the bottom layer is a light golden crumbly shortbread base, the middle layer is a smooth, thick caramel with a rich amber color, and the top layer is a dark brown chocolate layer with a slightly shiny and smooth texture that has gentle, wavy ripples across its surface. The edges of the chocolate layer are clean but uneven, showing a delicate break along the top. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these bars without alcohol?

Yes, you can omit the alcohol and simply use salted caramel sauce alone for a delicious, kid-friendly version.

What kind of caramel sauce should I use?

Choose a high-quality salted caramel sauce for the best taste. You can also make homemade caramel sauce if you prefer full control over the sweetness and saltiness.