Better Than Anything Bars (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Bars

01 - 1 cup butter, softened
02 - 1 cup brown sugar, packed
03 - 1/2 cup white sugar
04 - 2 medium eggs
05 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
06 - 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
07 - 1 teaspoon baking soda
08 - 1 teaspoon salt
09 - 2 cups milk chocolate chips or semi-sweet chocolate chips

→ Caramel Sauce

10 - 14 ounces caramels, unwrapped
11 - 5 ounces canned evaporated milk
12 - 1/2 cup peanut butter

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a 9x13-inch pan with non-stick cooking spray, ensuring proper release after baking.
02 - In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and white sugar. Beat on medium-high speed until light and fluffy.
03 - Mix in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the vanilla extract. Stir to combine.
04 - In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until a dough forms.
05 - Gently fold chocolate chips into the dough by hand or using a mixer, ensuring even distribution.
06 - Spread half the dough evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes, until lightly golden at the edges.
07 - Combine caramels and evaporated milk in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on power level 5 for 1-2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth.
08 - Stir peanut butter into the melted caramel until fully combined, creating a creamy, nutty caramel sauce.
09 - Remove the pan from the oven. Carefully spread the caramel mixture evenly over the baked cookie layer.
10 - Drop teaspoonfuls of the remaining dough over the caramel layer, leaving gaps for caramel to show.
11 - Bake for 17-20 minutes, until golden brown and caramel is bubbling. Edges should be firm, with a soft center.
12 - Let cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares. Use a sharp knife for clean cuts.