DESSERTS

Caramel Squares: 5 Reasons to Love This Irresistible Treat

by basmer

26 de December de 2025

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Caramel Squares are a delectable treat that combines a buttery shortbread base with a rich, gooey caramel filling. These indulgent squares are easy to make and are perfect for sharing during festive gatherings or enjoying on cozy afternoons. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up these delightful caramel bites that everyone will love. Get ready to indulge in the sweet and chewy goodness of homemade caramel squares!

Why You’ll Love This Caramel Squares

There are countless reasons to adore Caramel Squares. Firstly, they perfectly combine a buttery crust with a luscious caramel filling, making each bite a delightful experience. Secondly, they are incredibly easy to prepare, even for novice bakers. Whether you’re looking for a simple dessert for a weeknight dinner or something special for a celebration, these squares fit the bill. Moreover, they can easily be customized with nuts or chocolate, creating variations like caramel chocolate squares or caramel squares with nuts. Also, these treats are great for meal prep; you can store them for later enjoyment. Finally, they are a hit at parties, making them one of the best caramel squares for dessert.

Ingredients for Caramel Squares

Gather these items:

1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 cup all-purpose flour (sifted)
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1 tsp vanilla extract

How to Make Caramel Squares Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8 inch baking dish.
Step 2: In a bowl, cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy. Gradually mix in the sifted flour until combined.
Step 3: Press half of the mixture into the prepared baking dish to form the base layer.
Step 4: In a saucepan over low heat, combine sweetened condensed milk, remaining butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until melted and smooth.
Step 5: Pour the caramel filling over the base layer and crumble the remaining dough on top.
Step 6: Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Cool completely before slicing into squares.

Pro Tips for the Best Caramel Squares

Keep these in mind:

These squares are perfect for any occasion, whether a family gathering or a holiday party.
Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain their chewy texture.
For a twist, try adding a pinch of sea salt on top before baking for a salted caramel experience.
Always allow the squares to cool completely before cutting to ensure clean edges.

Best Ways to Serve Caramel Squares

These caramel dessert squares can be served in various delightful ways. One option is to serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. Another idea is to drizzle melted chocolate over the top for an extra touch of sweetness. You can also serve them alongside coffee or tea for a perfect afternoon snack.

How to Store and Reheat Caramel Squares

To keep your Caramel Squares fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to enjoy them later, you can freeze the squares wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag. When ready to eat, simply thaw them at room temperature. They are great for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy these treats whenever you crave a sweet bite.

Frequently Asked Questions About Caramel Squares

What are caramel squares?

Caramel squares are delicious desserts made with a buttery shortbread base and a rich, gooey caramel filling. They are a popular choice for those who love sweet treats.

Can I make caramel squares ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare homemade caramel squares recipe in advance. Just store them in an airtight container, and they will stay fresh for several days.

How do I avoid common mistakes with caramel squares?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure you properly grease your baking dish and let the squares cool completely before cutting to achieve clean, uniform pieces.

Variations of Caramel Squares You Can Try

If you’re feeling adventurous, consider trying these variations of Caramel Squares. You can make gluten-free caramel squares by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. For a decadent twist, add chocolate chips to the caramel filling for chewy caramel squares. Lastly, for those who enjoy a nutty flavor, incorporate chopped nuts into the crust or sprinkle them on top before baking for a delightful crunch.

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes. If you’re interested in other sweet treats, you might enjoy double chocolate peppermint cookies or gingerbread cookies with maple glaze.

For additional tips on making caramel, you can refer to this guide on Serious Eats.

Caramel Squares: 5 Reasons to Love This Irresistible Treat

Author: basmer
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 16 squares 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Caramel Squares are a delectable treat that combines a buttery shortbread base with a rich, gooey caramel filling.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 cup all-purpose flour (sifted)
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8 inch baking dish.
In a bowl, cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy. Gradually mix in the sifted flour until combined.
Press half of the mixture into the prepared baking dish to form the base layer.
In a saucepan over low heat, combine sweetened condensed milk, remaining butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until melted and smooth.
Pour the caramel filling over the base layer and crumble the remaining dough on top.
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Cool completely before slicing into squares.