01 -
Preheat oven to 300°F. Line a 9x13-inch pan with foil, spray with nonstick spray, and set aside. Combine butter, powdered sugar, flour, and vanilla in a large bowl. Mix with a pastry blender or fork until crumbly and press into the prepared pan. Bake for 40 minutes until lightly golden brown. Remove and let cool.
02 -
While crust bakes, combine butter, salt, corn syrup, sugar, and ½ cup heavy cream in a medium saucepan over low heat. Warm until the butter melts (about 10 minutes), stirring gently. Increase to medium-low heat to maintain a simmer for 20-30 minutes, until it reaches 235°F. Add the remaining ½ cup heavy cream, swirl gently, and simmer for another 10-15 minutes until it returns to 235°F. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla, pour over the cooled crust, and smooth evenly. Refrigerate for 45-60 minutes before adding the chocolate layer.
03 -
Melt chocolate and cream together in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring between intervals, until melted. Alternatively, use a double boiler. Pour the chocolate over the caramel layer and smooth evenly. Refrigerate for 3-4 hours until completely set. Remove foil and cut bars into four rows of eight (32 pieces).
04 -
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or freeze for several months. Bring to room temperature before serving for softened caramel.