Description
Indulge in these Espresso Caramel Butter Bars, featuring a buttery shortbread base, rich espresso caramel, and a decadent dark chocolate drizzle. This recipe delivers a delightful combination of textures and flavors, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 200g (0.44 lbs) Unsalted Butter, Melted: Cool slightly before mixing.
- 250g (2 cups) All-Purpose Flour: Spoon and level for accurate measurement.
- 100g (0.5 cup) Powdered Sugar: Adds sweetness and a tender crumb.
- 0.25 tsp Salt: Enhances sweetness and balances flavors.
- 300g (1.5 cups) Granulated Sugar: For deep caramel color and flavor.
- 100g (0.5 cup) Unsalted Butter, Cubed: Melts evenly into the sugar.
- 120ml (0.5 cup) Heavy Cream, Warmed: Adds richness and smoothness.
- 2 tsp Instant Espresso Powder dissolved in 2 tbsp Hot Water: Provides concentrated coffee flavor.
- 150g (5.3oz) Dark Chocolate (70% cocoa), Chopped: For a rich, intense flavor.
- 1 tbsp Neutral Oil: Thins the chocolate for a glossy glaze.
Instructions
- Prepare Shortbread Base: Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a pan with parchment.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Whisk flour, powdered sugar, and salt.
- Incorporate Butter: Mix in melted butter until a dough forms.
- Press into Pan: Press dough evenly into the prepared pan.
- Bake Base: Bake for 15-18 minutes, until golden.
- Make Espresso Caramel: Melt sugar, then add cubed butter.
- Incorporate Cream & Espresso: Stir in warmed cream and espresso powder.
- Pour Caramel Over Base: Spread caramel evenly over warm shortbread.
- Set Caramel Layer: Let sit at room temperature, then refrigerate.
- Melt Chocolate: Melt chocolate with oil over simmering water.
- Drizzle with Chocolate: Drizzle melted chocolate over the bars.
- Set & Cut: Allow chocolate to set, then cut into squares.
- Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
Notes
For best results, use high-quality dark chocolate and espresso powder. Be patient when making the caramel to avoid scorching.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 25 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg
Keywords: espresso,caramel,butter bars,chocolate,shortbread,dessert,coffee,sweet treat
