Brownie Mix Salted Caramel Cookie Bars

Name: Brownie Mix Salted Caramel Cookie Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 16 servings
Ingredients: 1 box of brownie mix; 2 large eggs; 1/3 cup vegetable oil; 1/4 cup water; 1/2 cup salted caramel sauce; 1/2 cup chocolate chips; 1/4 teaspoon sea salt

Highlighted under: Golden Crust & Crumbs

I love whipping up these Brownie Mix Salted Caramel Cookie Bars when I crave something sweet and indulgent. They’re a perfect blend of rich chocolate from brownie mix and gooey salted caramel, creating a delightful treat that is sure to impress. The best part? It only takes a few ingredients and minimal effort to bring these bars together. Whether for a brunch get-together or a cozy afternoon snack, they never fail to bring smiles all around!

Created by

Imogen Price

Last updated on 2026-02-27T21:33:36.028Z

When I first experimented with these Brownie Mix Salted Caramel Cookie Bars, I thought I was just adding a twist to a classic recipe. What I didn’t anticipate was how the salted caramel accentuated the chocolate flavor, making it a standout treat. I recommend using a high-quality caramel sauce for that extra gourmet touch!

To ensure the bars achieve the perfect texture, I’ve found it’s crucial to let them cool completely before cutting. This way, you’ll get those clean, pretty squares that are as delightful to look at as they are to eat. Trust me, your friends and family will be begging for the recipe!

Why You'll Love These Bars
Decadent chocolate base with a surprise caramel layer
Salty and sweet balance that tantalizes the taste buds
Super simple to make with store-bought brownie mix

Baking Tips for Success

To ensure your Brownie Mix Salted Caramel Cookie Bars turn out perfectly each time, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) well in advance. This allows for even baking, which is crucial for achieving that perfect texture. I recommend using an oven thermometer to confirm the accurate temperature, as oven settings can sometimes be off. Ideally, the bars should bake until the edges firm up while the center still appears slightly soft—this will give you that fudgy mouthfeel we all love.

When preparing your baking pan, make sure to grease it well to prevent any stickiness. If you prefer, you can also line the pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang as handles. This makes it easy to lift the bars out once they cool, helping you cut them into perfect squares. Keep an eye on the baking process, and if you notice the edges starting to darken too much, you might want to shield them with aluminum foil for the last few minutes.

Ingredient Insights

The brownie mix you choose can significantly influence the final flavor and texture of your bars. I recommend using a high-quality, chocolate-rich mix for the best outcome. Some brands even offer gluten-free options if dietary restrictions are a concern. When adding your salted caramel sauce, look for a brand that offers a good balance between sweetness and saltiness to enhance that flavor contrast we love. You can also try making your own caramel sauce if you're feeling adventurous—just be cautious not to overcook it.

Don't hesitate to experiment with chocolate chip types. While semi-sweet chocolate chips are standard, dark chocolate or milk chocolate chips could bring a twist to your bars. If you’re looking for a richer chocolate experience, opt for dark chocolate chips. Adding a sprinkle of flaked sea salt on top just before baking enhances the caramel's flavor, delivering a delightful salty contrast that complements the sweetness beautifully.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to get started on your sweet creation:

Ingredients

1 box of brownie mix
2 large eggs
1/3 cup vegetable oil
1/4 cup water
1/2 cup salted caramel sauce
1/2 cup chocolate chips
1/4 teaspoon sea salt

With everything ready, let’s start making these delicious bars!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your cookie bars:

Prepare the batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the brownie mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and water. Stir until well blended, then fold in the chocolate chips.

Layer the caramel

Spread half of the brownie batter in a greased 9x9 inch baking pan. Drizzle half of the salted caramel sauce over the batter, then top it with the remaining brownie batter.

Add the finishing touches

Drizzle the rest of the caramel sauce on top and sprinkle the sea salt evenly over everything. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.

Cool and cut

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares for serving. Enjoy!

Serve your bars warm or at room temperature. They are perfect with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!

Pro Tips

For an even richer experience, try adding nuts or a layer of cookie dough underneath the brownie batter.

Storage and Serving

These Brownie Mix Salted Caramel Cookie Bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them, where they'll last for about a week. The texture may change slightly when chilled, but the flavors will still be delicious. If you're planning to serve them later, you can even freeze them. Just wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a zip-top bag. They can stay in the freezer for up to three months.

When serving, I highly recommend letting them come back to room temperature for the best mouthfeel. You can enjoy these bars as is, or take your presentation up a notch by drizzling a bit more salted caramel on top. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent dessert that will surely satisfy any sweet tooth!

Variations to Try

While the original recipe is delightful, you can customize these bars in several ways. For added texture, consider folding in chopped nuts—walnuts or pecans work wonderfully here. If you're a peanut butter lover, try swirling in some peanut butter before baking for a rich twist. Just heat the peanut butter slightly to help it mix more easily without clumping.

For a fruity twist, add a layer of fresh raspberries or sliced strawberries along with the caramel, which introduces a lovely tartness that cuts through the sweetness. This not only elevates the flavor profile but also makes your bars visually appealing. Feel free to experiment and create your own signature version of these decadent treats!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use homemade brownie mix instead?

Yes, you can use homemade brownie mix! Just ensure it's a similar texture to what you would get from a box.

→ How do I store leftover bars?

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze these cookie bars?

Absolutely! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

→ What should I serve with these cookie bars?

They pair well with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra treat!