Treat Tuesday-Salted Caramel Bars

IMG_4283I have always loved salty and sweet mixed together.  I have made versions of these bars several times but I have not been successful in achieving the look and taste that I wanted.  Well, after much trial and error, I think I have found the right combination.

IMG_4263These recipe starts with a layer of shortbread.  Half of the dough is baked in the pan, half is placed in the refrigerator.  Once that is nice and golden brown, it’s time to make the center of these bars.

IMG_4268Did you ever enjoy a “See’s Candy” Lollypop?  These caramels remind me of that delicious treat!  You start with individual caramels tossed in a pan.

IMG_4269Add some heavy cream and slowly melt until smooth.

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Pour over the warm shortbread and sprinkle with sea salt crystals.  Don’t skip this step, it makes the bars an amazing salty/sweet combination.

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IMG_4273Now the remaining shortbread dough has been kept cold.  Place it on a cutting board and chop it as if you were roughly chopping a head of lettuce, then sprinkle the delicious cubes of dough over the top of the caramel.  (I put a few cubes in my mouth to keep my energy up!)

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Bake until the top is golden brown.

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If you are over winter, take a break from putting salt on your driveway and add some to your dessert tray.

SALTED CARAMEL BARS