Shortbread and Salted Caramel Bars

Shortbread and salted caramel are a match made in heaven, and these bars combine the buttery flavor of shortbread with the salty-sweetness of caramel for a delightful treat. Perfect for snacking or dessert!

Ingredients: For the Shortbread:

• 10 tbsp salted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 egg yolk, whisked
• 1 2/3 cups flour

For the Caramel:

• 14 tbsp butter
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 3/4 cup light corn syrup
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
• Coarse salt for dusting

Preparation:

1. Line an 8×8 pan with parchment paper, leaving the edges hanging over the two sides.
2. For the shortbread: In a bowl, combine melted butter, sugar, and flour.
3. Let cool slightly, then add in beaten egg. Stir until combined.
4. Press dough into the prepared pan. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.
5. Bake at 350°F for 25 minutes or until it begins to brown. Let cool.
6. For the caramel: In a sturdy saucepan, combine all caramel topping ingredients except vanilla.
7. Bring to a boil and stir until sugars are dissolved and the mixture is well combined.
8. Using a candy thermometer or the cold water test, cook the mixture until it reaches the soft ball stage.
9. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla. Cool slightly, then pour over the shortbread.
10. Sprinkle with coarse salt and refrigerate for several hours.
11. Once chilled, cut into 64 1-inch squares. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to ten days.

Source : allrecipes