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### **Instructions**
#### **Step 1: Prepare the Base**
Start by preheating your oven to **350°F (175°C)**. Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray. This will make it easier to remove the bars once they are baked.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, granulated sugar, salt, and vanilla extract. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the mixture until it’s smooth and creamy. Gradually add the flour and continue mixing until the dough comes together and forms a soft, slightly crumbly texture.
Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to create a smooth, flat layer. Bake the base in the preheated oven for about **12-15 minutes**, or until it’s lightly golden around the edges. Once baked, remove it from the oven and set it aside to cool slightly.
#### **Step 2: Make the Caramel Layer**
While the base is cooling, you can prepare the caramel layer. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, stir in the brown sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly to prevent it from burning. Let the caramel simmer for about **3-5 minutes** until it thickens and becomes glossy. Be sure to keep stirring to avoid scorching.
Once the caramel has thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool for a minute or two before pouring it over the partially baked crust. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the base layer.
#### **Step 3: Add the Nut Topping**
After you’ve spread the caramel over the base, sprinkle the chopped mixed nuts evenly over the caramel layer. Press the nuts down gently into the caramel to ensure they stick and stay in place as the bars bake.
#### **Step 4: Bake the Bars**
Place the pan back into the oven and bake for an additional **15-20 minutes**, or until the caramel is bubbly and golden, and the nuts are lightly toasted. The bars will firm up as they cool, so don’t worry if the caramel seems a bit soft when you take them out of the oven.
#### **Step 5: Cool and Serve**
Once baked, remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan. This is an important step, as the caramel will firm up as it cools, making the bars easier to cut into squares or bars. Once cooled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper (if used), and slice them into squares.
For an extra touch, you can drizzle some melted chocolate over the top of the bars or sprinkle a little sea salt to enhance the caramel flavor.
### **Tips for Perfect Caramel Nut Bars**
– **Use Fresh Butter:** Using fresh, high-quality butter will make a noticeable difference in the flavor of the shortbread base and caramel layer.
– **Watch the Caramel:** When making the caramel, keep a close eye on it. It should simmer gently, but don’t let it boil too vigorously. Stir continuously to avoid burning.
– **Chill for Neat Slices:** For the neatest, cleanest cuts, you can refrigerate the bars for about an hour before slicing. This helps the caramel set properly and makes the bars easier to cut.
– **Nut Variations:** Feel free to experiment with different types of nuts. Walnuts, almonds, cashews, or hazelnuts all work wonderfully in this recipe. You can even use a mix of your favorites.
– **Make Ahead:** These bars store well and can be made a day or two in advance. Just keep them covered in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.
### **Serving Suggestions**
Caramel Nut Bars are perfect as a sweet treat on their own, but they can also be served in various ways:
– **With a Cup of Coffee or Tea:** These bars are ideal for an afternoon treat alongside your favorite hot beverage.
– **Topped with Ice Cream:** For an indulgent dessert, serve a warm slice of the caramel nut bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
– **Gifting:** Wrapped in a cute box or tin, these bars make an excellent homemade gift for holidays or special occasions.
### **Conclusion**
Caramel Nut Bars are a deliciously sweet and crunchy treat that combines buttery shortbread, rich caramel, and a satisfying nut topping. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving something sweet, these bars are the perfect balance of flavors and textures. With their simple ingredients and easy preparation, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Enjoy the decadent combination of caramel and nuts with every bite!
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