Delicious Brown Butter Toffee Bars: 16 Irresistible Bites

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Brown Butter Toffee Bars are a standout dessert with a nutty crust, creamy middle, and gooey caramel top. They are easy to make and impressive in flavor. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat to impress guests or simply craving something delicious, these bars deliver. The combination of brown butter and toffee creates a rich taste that is truly irresistible. With just a few steps, you can create a mouthwatering dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Brown Butter Toffee Bars

These Brown Butter Toffee Bars are not just another dessert; they are a delightful experience. Here’s why:

  • Rich, nutty flavor from the browned butter that elevates the taste.
  • Gooey caramel layer adds a sweet and creamy texture.
  • Perfect balance of sweet and salty, making them hard to resist.
  • Easy to prepare, making them a go-to for both novice and expert bakers.
  • Great for parties, as they can be cut into perfect bite-sized pieces.
  • Can be customized with nuts or different chocolate types for variety.
  • They are a wonderful addition to any dessert table, including chewy brown butter bars and buttery toffee dessert bars.

Ingredients for Brown Butter Toffee Bars

Gather these items:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 cup white chocolate chips
  • 10 oz soft caramels
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream
  • Flaky sea salt, for topping

How to Make Brown Butter Toffee Bars Step-by-Step

  1. Step 1: Melt unsalted butter in a pan over medium heat. Stir until it turns golden brown and smells nutty.
  2. Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine browned butter, sugar, flour, and a pinch of salt. Mix until a dough forms.
  3. Step 3: Press the dough into a parchment-lined 8×8-inch baking dish. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes until lightly golden.
  4. Step 4: In a saucepan, melt sweetened condensed milk with white chocolate chips over low heat, stirring until smooth.
  5. Step 5: Pour the white chocolate mixture over the baked crust and spread evenly.
  6. Step 6: In a separate saucepan, melt the caramels with heavy cream until smooth.
  7. Step 7: Pour the caramel layer over the white chocolate and gently spread. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
  8. Step 8: Let the bars cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
  9. Step 9: Once firm, lift from pan using parchment and slice with a hot, sharp knife.
  10. Step 10: Serve or store as desired.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Brown Butter Toffee Bars

Keep these in mind:

  • Make sure to watch the butter closely while browning to avoid burning.
  • For a more intense flavor, use dark brown sugar instead of granulated sugar.
  • These bars can be made gluten-free by substituting with your favorite gluten-free flour.
  • Cutting the bars with a hot knife will give you cleaner edges.

Best Ways to Serve Brown Butter Toffee Bars

Here are some serving ideas:

  • Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
  • Pair with coffee or tea for a comforting afternoon snack.
  • Great for potlucks or parties; cut into small squares for easy sharing.

How to Store and Reheat Brown Butter Toffee Bars

To store, keep the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For reheating, simply microwave for a few seconds to enjoy the gooey caramel again. These bars are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to have a sweet treat ready whenever you need it.

Frequently Asked Questions About Brown Butter Toffee Bars

What’s the secret to perfect Brown Butter Toffee Bars?

The secret lies in browning the butter just right. This step enhances the nutty flavor that makes these bars exceptional. Be careful not to burn the butter, as it can change the final taste.

Can I make Brown Butter Toffee Bars ahead of time?

Yes! These bars can be made a day or two in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator, and they will be even more delicious as the flavors meld together.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Brown Butter Toffee Bars?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure the butter is properly browned and not burnt. Also, allow the bars to cool completely before cutting for cleaner slices.

Variations of Brown Butter Toffee Bars You Can Try

Feel free to get creative with these variations:

  • Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture.
  • Incorporate different types of chocolate chips for varied sweetness.
  • Create a layered version with chocolate ganache on top for extra indulgence.
  • Make them gluten-free by using a flour alternative.
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For more on the benefits of brown butter, you can refer to this Serious Eats article that explains the process and flavor profile of brown butter.

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Brown Butter Toffee Bars

Delicious Brown Butter Toffee Bars: 16 Irresistible Bites


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  • Author: layla
  • Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
  • Yield: 16 bars 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Brown Butter Toffee Bars are a standout dessert with a nutty crust, creamy middle, and gooey caramel top. They are easy to make and impressive in flavor.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 cup white chocolate chips
  • 10 oz soft caramels
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream
  • Flaky sea salt, for topping

Instructions

  1. Melt unsalted butter in a pan over medium heat. Stir until it turns golden brown and smells nutty.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine browned butter, sugar, flour, and a pinch of salt. Mix until a dough forms.
  3. Press the dough into a parchment-lined 8×8-inch baking dish. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes until lightly golden.
  4. In a saucepan, melt sweetened condensed milk with white chocolate chips over low heat, stirring until smooth.
  5. Pour the white chocolate mixture over the baked crust and spread evenly.
  6. In a separate saucepan, melt the caramels with heavy cream until smooth.
  7. Pour the caramel layer over the white chocolate and gently spread. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
  8. Let the bars cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
  9. Once firm, lift from pan using parchment and slice with a hot, sharp knife.
  10. Serve or store as desired.

Notes

    • Prep Time: 15 minutes
    • Cook Time: 30 minutes
    • Category: Dessert
    • Method: Baking
    • Cuisine: American

    Nutrition

    • Serving Size: 1 bar
    • Calories: 280
    • Sugar: 18g
    • Sodium: 150mg
    • Fat: 16g
    • Saturated Fat: 10g
    • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
    • Trans Fat: 0g
    • Carbohydrates: 32g
    • Fiber: 1g
    • Protein: 3g
    • Cholesterol: 30mg

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