Caramel Nut Shortbread Bars

Caramel Nut Shortbread Bars are the ultimate dessert for those who crave a buttery, crisp base topped with rich caramel and crunchy nuts. These layered bars combine tender shortbread, gooey caramel, and a generous scattering of toasted nuts for a sweet treat that’s as elegant as it is satisfying. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or as a make-ahead dessert, these bars deliver a delicious balance of texture and flavor in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Caramel Nut Shortbread Bars are a dessert that ticks all the boxes for both bakers and dessert lovers:

• Decadent layers: The buttery shortbread, creamy caramel, and crunchy nuts create a beautiful contrast.

• Perfect for sharing: Easy to slice and serve, these bars make a fantastic addition to cookie trays, dessert buffets, or edible gift boxes.

• Make-ahead convenience: These bars store well, making them ideal for preparing in advance for gatherings or celebrations.

• Customizable: Use your favorite nuts (pecans, walnuts, almonds) or a mix. Add a drizzle of chocolate for even more indulgence.

• Simple ingredients: Made from pantry staples, this recipe doesn’t require anything fancy but tastes like a gourmet treat.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the shortbread base:

• All-purpose flour

• Unsalted butter, softened

• Powdered sugar

• Salt

For the caramel nut topping:

• Granulated sugar

• Water

• Unsalted butter

• Heavy cream

• Mixed nuts (pecans, walnuts, almonds, etc.), toasted and chopped

• Sea salt (optional, for a salted caramel version)

Directions

Make the shortbread base:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking pan with parchment paper.

2. In a bowl, cream together butter, powdered sugar, and salt until light.

3. Gradually add flour and mix until crumbly dough forms.

4. Press dough evenly into prepared pan.

5. Bake 18-20 minutes, until lightly golden at edges. Cool slightly.

Make the caramel:

1. Combine sugar and water in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves.

2. Increase heat and cook without stirring until mixture turns amber.

3. Remove from heat, carefully whisk in butter and cream (mixture will bubble).

4. Stir until smooth. Add sea salt if using.

Assemble:

1. Pour caramel evenly over the shortbread base.

2. Sprinkle chopped nuts over caramel while warm.

3. Let cool completely before slicing into bars.

Servings and timing

Yields about 16 bars
Prep time: 25 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Cooling time: 1 hour

Variations

• Chocolate drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle bars with melted chocolate.

• Different nuts: Use macadamias or cashews for a unique twist.

• Spiced caramel: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the caramel.

• Coconut: Sprinkle shredded coconut over the caramel with the nuts.

• Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the shortbread.

Storage/reheating

Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week. Bars can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought caramel?

Yes, but homemade gives the best flavor and texture.

How do I prevent caramel from crystallizing?

Avoid stirring once the sugar dissolves and starts boiling; swirl the pan gently.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, bake in a 9×13 pan, adjusting baking time as needed.

What’s the best way to cut clean slices?

Chill the bars before cutting and use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts.

Can I make these dairy-free?

Use plant-based butter and coconut cream, but flavor will differ.

Can I use brown sugar for caramel?

You can, but the flavor will be deeper and more molasses-like.

How thick should the caramel layer be?

Aim for a generous coating—about 1/4 inch thick.

Can I add chocolate chips?

Yes, sprinkle over the warm caramel so they melt slightly.

Can I use pre-roasted nuts?

Yes, but ensure they’re unsalted or adjust the salt in the recipe.

Are these good for shipping?

Yes, they hold up well if packed tightly in a sturdy box.

Conclusion

Caramel Nut Shortbread Bars are a wonderful treat that blends buttery, crumbly shortbread with a rich caramel topping and crunchy nuts. Whether served as part of a dessert tray, wrapped up as a gift, or enjoyed with coffee or tea, these bars are sure to become a favorite for their flavor, texture, and ease of preparation.

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