Gooey Chocolate Chip Caramel Bars with Peanut Butter (Easy Cookie Bar Recipe)
These chocolate chip caramel bars are irresistibly gooey, rich, and layered with flavor. Featuring a soft chocolate chip cookie base, a luscious caramel peanut butter filling, and a golden cookie topping, this easy dessert is perfect for parties, bake sales, or whenever you crave something indulgent. If you love caramel cookie bars, this recipe will quickly become a favorite!
Why You’ll Love These Caramel Chocolate Chip Bars
- Soft, gooey texture with a rich caramel center
- Easy cookie bar recipe – no need to shape individual cookies
- Perfect for sharing – great for gatherings and potlucks
- Sweet and salty balance with peanut butter and caramel
- Make-ahead friendly dessert
Ingredients
For the cookie dough:
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 eggs
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
For the caramel filling:
- 5 oz evaporated milk
- 1 bag (14 oz) soft caramels
- ½ cup peanut butter
Instructions
1. Prepare the oven and pan
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. Make the cookie dough
In a bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt.
In a separate large bowl, beat butter, sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla until creamy.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, then fold in chocolate chips.
3. Bake the base layer
Spread half of the cookie dough evenly into the prepared pan.
Bake for 8–10 minutes, then remove from oven.
4. Prepare the caramel peanut butter filling
In a double boiler (or microwave in intervals), melt caramels with evaporated milk until smooth.
Stir in peanut butter and mix until fully combined and creamy.
5. Assemble the bars
Pour the caramel mixture over the partially baked cookie layer and spread evenly.
Drop spoonfuls of the remaining cookie dough over the top (it doesn’t need to fully cover).
6. Final bake
Return to oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden brown.
7. Cool and serve
Allow bars to cool completely before slicing for clean cuts and perfect layers.
Tips for Perfect Caramel Cookie Bars
- Use softened butter for a smooth, creamy dough
- Don’t overbake—this keeps the center gooey and soft
- Line the pan with parchment paper for easy removal
- Let the bars cool fully before cutting to avoid messy slices
- Use good-quality chocolate chips for better flavor
Variations & Add-Ins
Customize your gooey caramel chocolate chip bars with these ideas:
- Add chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans) for crunch
- Swap peanut butter with almond butter or Nutella
- Sprinkle sea salt on top for a salted caramel version
- Use dark chocolate chips for a richer taste
- Add a layer of marshmallows for extra indulgence
Serving Suggestions
Serve these easy caramel cookie bars with:
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream
- A drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce
- A glass of milk or coffee
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These gooey chocolate chip caramel bars with peanut butter are rich, decadent, and impossible to resist—perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth anytime!
