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Caramel Nut Shortbread Bars

Caramel Nut Shortbread Bars are rich, buttery treats with a crisp shortbread base topped with gooey caramel and a generous layer of toasted mixed nuts for the perfect sweet-salty balance.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (for caramel)
  • 1/4 cup water (for caramel)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter (for caramel)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (for caramel)
  • 1 1/2 cups mixed nuts, toasted (e.g., pecans, almonds, walnuts)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional, for salted caramel)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, and softened butter until crumbly. Press into the prepared pan.
  3. Bake shortbread for 20-25 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool slightly.
  4. For caramel: Combine sugar and water in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring until dissolved. Cook without stirring until deep amber.
  5. Remove from heat, carefully whisk in butter and cream. Stir until smooth. Add salt if using.
  6. Pour caramel over shortbread. Sprinkle toasted nuts evenly on top.
  7. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.

Notes

  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature up to 3 days or refrigerate up to 1 week.
  • Use your favorite mix of nuts for customization.
  • Add a drizzle of melted chocolate for extra indulgence.

Nutrition

Keywords: caramel nut bars, shortbread dessert, nutty caramel bars, holiday bars, buttery shortbread