Caramel Oat Chocolate Chunk Shortbread Bars

The Caramel Oat Chocolate Chunk Shortbread Bars are a delightful dessert that combines buttery shortbread with rich caramel, hearty oats, and generous chunks of chocolate. Perfect for parties, picnics, or simply as a sweet treat at home, these bars are sure to impress. Their unique blend of flavors and textures makes them irresistible, whether enjoyed warm with ice cream or cut into neat squares for sharing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can create these delicious bars.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of caramel, oats, and chocolate results in a mouthwatering taste experience.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for any occasion like birthdays, holidays, or just a cozy family gathering.
• Batch-Friendly: This recipe yields 24 bars, making it ideal for serving a crowd or stocking your dessert stash.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the mix-ins—try different chocolate types or add nuts for extra crunch.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin baking these delicious bars, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor or pastry blender
• 9X13-inch pan
• Mixing bowls
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Nonstick cooking spray

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: It makes mixing the shortbread crust quick and easy by efficiently combining ingredients.
• 9X13-inch pan: The perfect size for baking these bars evenly and achieving the right texture.
• Whisk: Ensures all ingredients blend together smoothly when preparing the filling.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/3 cup granulated sugar
– 14 tablespoons salted butter (cold, cut into tablespoon-size pieces)
– 1/2 cup salted butter
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup light or dark brown sugar (I prefer dark brown in this recipe)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut, sweetened or unsweetened (optional)
– 1/2 cup toffee bits
– 1 1/2 cups white, milk, semisweet or bittersweet chocolate chunks or chocolate chips (can use a combination!)

How to Make Caramel Oat Chocolate Chunk Shortbread Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Line a 9X13-inch pan with foil and grease it with nonstick cooking spray. The foil helps in easily lifting out the bars later.

Step 2: Prepare the Shortbread Crust

In the bowl of a food processor:
* Add the flour, salt, and sugar. Pulse to combine.
* Scatter the cold butter across the mixture. Process until dough clumps form (about 30-45 seconds).
Alternatively:
* Combine flour, salt, and sugar in a large bowl. Cut in butter using a pastry blender until small pieces remain.

Step 3: Bake the Crust

Press the shortbread mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Bake for 15-20 minutes until edges are lightly golden but not burnt.

Step 4: Make the Filling

In a medium saucepan over medium heat:
* Melt the butter while stirring frequently until it turns golden brown with tiny bits forming at the bottom.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Off heat:
* Stir in granulated sugar, brown sugar, and salt until thickened. Let cool briefly.
Then:
* Whisk in eggs and vanilla until well combined.

Step 6: Mix in Oats and Chocolate

Stir in oats, coconut (if using), toffee bits, and chocolate chunks. Spread this filling evenly over your baked shortbread crust.

Step 7: Bake Again

Return to oven and bake for another 20 minutes until set around edges; the center may still jiggle slightly.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Allow cooling slightly before serving warm directly from the pan OR let cool completely before cutting into squares for serving later. Enjoy!

How to Serve Caramel Oat Chocolate Chunk Shortbread Bars

Caramel Oat Chocolate Chunk Shortbread Bars are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them as a treat at home, these bars are sure to impress.

A La Mode

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.

With Fresh Berries

• Pair these bars with fresh strawberries or raspberries for a refreshing touch that balances the sweetness.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Add an extra layer of indulgence by drizzling caramel sauce over the bars before serving.

With Whipped Cream

• Top with homemade whipped cream for a light and fluffy finish that complements the rich chocolate chunks.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Cut into smaller bites and include them on a dessert platter alongside cookies and brownies for a variety of treats.

With Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these bars with your favorite hot beverage for a cozy afternoon snack.

How to Perfect Caramel Oat Chocolate Chunk Shortbread Bars

To ensure your Caramel Oat Chocolate Chunk Shortbread Bars turn out perfect every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use cold butter: Starting with cold butter helps create a flaky crust that holds up well under the filling.
• Don’t overmix: When combining ingredients, mix just until incorporated to avoid tough bars.
• Watch your baking time: Keep an eye on the oven; taking them out slightly early will result in softer, gooey centers that set as they cool.
• Let them cool completely: For clean cuts, allowing the bars to cool fully before slicing is essential.
• Experiment with mix-ins: Feel free to swap in different types of chocolate chunks or nuts based on your preference.
• Store properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness for several days.

Best Side Dishes for Caramel Oat Chocolate Chunk Shortbread Bars

A good side dish can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options to serve alongside your Caramel Oat Chocolate Chunk Shortbread Bars.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream
   A classic choice that adds creaminess and balances sweetness perfectly.

2. Chocolate Sauce
   A rich chocolate drizzle enhances the flavor and adds an extra sweet touch.

3. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet bars.

4. Coffee
   The bitterness of coffee pairs well with the sweetness of the bars, making it an ideal companion.

5. Chai Tea
   The warm spices in chai tea complement the flavors in the shortbread bars beautifully.

6. Caramel Sauce
   For those who can’t get enough caramel, serve it alongside for dipping or drizzling.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, and making Caramel Oat Chocolate Chunk Shortbread Bars is no exception. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Overmixing the Dough: Overmixing can lead to tough bars. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a tender texture.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Baking is a science, so inaccurate measurements can ruin your bars. Use proper measuring cups and spoons for best results.
• Skipping the Cooling Time: Allowing the bars to cool helps them set properly. If you cut them too soon, they may crumble or fall apart.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Preheating ensures even baking. Always preheat your oven to the correct temperature before placing your pan inside.
• Using Unsalted Butter in the Filling: The recipe calls for salted butter, which adds flavor. Using unsalted butter will result in bland bars.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store the bars in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
• For best taste, consume within this timeframe.

Freezing Caramel Oat Chocolate Chunk Shortbread Bars

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped bars in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Caramel Oat Chocolate Chunk Shortbread Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and place bars on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes to warm through.
• Microwave: Heat individual pieces for 15-20 seconds until warm but not hot.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat, covered, for a few minutes until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Caramel Oat Chocolate Chunk Shortbread Bars gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup like regular flour.

Can I use different types of chocolate chunks?

Yes! Feel free to mix white, milk, semisweet, or bittersweet chocolate chunks according to your preference.

What if I don’t have brown sugar?

You can replace it with an equal amount of granulated sugar mixed with a tablespoon of molasses for a similar flavor profile.

Can I add nuts to my Caramel Oat Chocolate Chunk Shortbread Bars?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans would add a nice crunch and flavor.

How long do these bars take to bake?

They typically take about 20 minutes after preparing the filling and spreading it over the crust.

Final Thoughts

These Caramel Oat Chocolate Chunk Shortbread Bars are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding nuts or different types of chocolate. Their chewy texture combined with rich flavors makes them an irresistible treat. Try making these delightful bars today and experiment with your favorite ingredients!

SEO Information