Snickerdoodle Caramel Bars

If you’re a fan of snickerdoodles and caramel, then you’re in for a real treat with these Snickerdoodle Caramel Bars. Combining the soft, cinnamon-sugar goodness of snickerdoodles with a rich, gooey caramel layer, these bars are a decadent delight perfect for any occasion. With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a total time of about 45 minutes, you can whip up these delicious bars in no time. This recipe serves 12, making it ideal for family gatherings, parties, or just a sweet treat to enjoy throughout the week.

Ingredients to Prepare

To create these mouthwatering bars, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Base and Topping:

• 2 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

For the Caramel Layer:

• 1 cup caramel sauce

This recipe yields 12 servings, making it perfect for sharing or enjoying over several days.

How to Make Snickerdoodle Caramel Bars

Preheat the Oven:

1. Set the Temperature: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease it lightly to prevent sticking.

Prepare the Base and Topping:

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Stir until well combined.
2. Add Wet Ingredients: Pour the melted butter and vanilla extract into the dry ingredients. Mix until a crumbly dough forms.

Assemble the Bars:

1. Form the Base: Press about two-thirds of the dough mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form the base layer.
2. Add Caramel Layer: Pour the caramel sauce over the base layer, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface.

Add the Topping:

1. Mix Cinnamon Dough: Add the ground cinnamon to the remaining dough mixture and stir until well combined.
2. Crumble Topping: Crumble the cinnamon dough mixture over the caramel layer, covering it as evenly as possible.

Bake the Bars:

1. Bake: Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the caramel is bubbly.

Cool and Serve:

1. Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.
2. Serve: Enjoy your decadent Snickerdoodle Caramel Bars!

Helpful Tips:

• Even Layer: When pressing the dough into the pan, use a flat-bottomed glass or measuring cup to create an even layer.
• Caramel Sauce: Use a high-quality caramel sauce for the best flavor. If you have the time, homemade caramel sauce can elevate these bars even more.
• Cooling Time: Be patient and let the bars cool completely before cutting. This ensures clean slices and helps the caramel set properly.

Cooking Tips:

• Avoid Overmixing: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined to keep the dough crumbly.
• Prevent Burning: Keep an eye on the bars in the oven. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while the caramel finishes bubbling.

Serving Suggestions:

These Snickerdoodle Caramel Bars are perfect on their own, but you can also serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 250 kcal
• Protein: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sodium: 125mg

Storage and Leftovers:

• Room Temperature: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerate: For longer storage, keep the bars in the refrigerator for up to a week. Let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
• Freeze: You can freeze the bars for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use homemade caramel sauce?

Absolutely! Homemade caramel sauce can enhance the flavor of these bars even more. Just ensure the sauce is thick enough to create a distinct layer between the base and the topping.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to choose a blend that is suitable for baking to achieve the best results.

What type of butter should I use?

Unsalted butter is recommended for this recipe to control the amount of salt. If you only have salted butter, you can reduce the added salt in the recipe to balance the flavors.

Can I add nuts to this recipe?

Yes, chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts can be added to the topping mixture for an extra crunch. Simply mix them in with the cinnamon dough before crumbling it over the caramel layer.

How do I prevent the caramel from oozing out when cutting the bars?

Ensure the bars are completely cooled before slicing. Using a sharp knife, you can also wipe the blade clean between cuts to maintain clean edges.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe and bake it in a larger pan or in two separate 9×13-inch pans. Adjust the baking time as needed and check for doneness.

Conclusion

Snickerdoodle Caramel Bars are a delightful fusion of classic snickerdoodle cookies and rich caramel, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. With their buttery base, gooey caramel layer, and cinnamon-sugar crumble topping, these bars are sure to be a hit with family and friends. The recipe is straightforward and quick, allowing you to enjoy these delicious bars in under an hour.

Whether you’re baking for a party, a family gathering, or simply to satisfy a sweet craving, Snickerdoodle Caramel Bars are a fantastic choice. Follow the helpful tips and suggestions provided to ensure perfect results every time. And don’t forget to experiment with variations and additions to make the recipe your own.

Enjoy the rich, decadent flavors of Snickerdoodle Caramel Bars and share the joy with those you love. Happy baking!

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