Indulge in the ultimate dessert experience with these irresistible Temptation Bars—your new go-to treat for satisfying any sweet tooth. Featuring layers of soft, buttery cookie dough studded with semi-sweet chocolate chips, a gooey caramel center, and a sprinkling of optional flaky sea salt for that perfect sweet-and-salty balance, these bars are as decadent as they are easy to make. With just 20 minutes of prep and simple steps like melting caramel candies and spreading cookie dough, even beginner bakers can create a stunning dessert that’s perfect for parties, bake sales, or indulgent weekday cravings. Serve them warm for a melty chocolate and caramel experience or at room temperature for perfect slices that showcase the beautiful layers. Don’t forget to make a double batch—they disappear fast!
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9-inch square baking pan. Line the pan with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang for easy removal.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix until smooth and well combined, about 1-2 minutes.
Stir in the vanilla extract and eggs, mixing until fully incorporated.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
Fold in 1 cup of the chocolate chips, reserving the remaining 1/2 cup for topping.
Spread half of the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan with a spatula or your hands.
In a microwave-safe bowl, add the unwrapped caramel candies and heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.
Pour the melted caramel evenly over the dough, spreading it gently with a spoon or spatula.
Drop the remaining cookie dough by spoonfuls over the caramel layer, then gently spread it out to cover as much as possible.
Sprinkle the reserved 1/2 cup of chocolate chips over the top. If using, lightly sprinkle flaky sea salt over the bars for an irresistible sweet and salty finish.
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and set. The edges should look firm, but the center might still be slightly soft (it will firm up as it cools).
Remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This step is crucial for clean slicing.
Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Slice into 16 squares and serve.
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
Serving size | 1281 grams (1281.0g) |
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Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
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Calories | 5641 |
Total Fat 293.90g | 377% |
Saturated Fat 181.00g | 905% |
Cholesterol 919mg | 306% |
Sodium 3793mg | 165% |
Total Carbohydrate 748.30g | 272% |
Dietary Fiber 23.50g | 84% |
Total Sugars 499.10g | |
Protein 58.10g | 116% |
Vitamin D 82IU | 410% |
Calcium 380mg | 29% |
Iron 20mg | 113% |
Potassium 870mg | 19% |
Source of Calories