If you have a sweet tooth and a love for rich, indulgent treats, this Caramel Slice Recipe is going to become your new best friend in the kitchen. With a buttery, crumbly base, a luscious caramel layer, and a glossy chocolate topping, every bite is a symphony of textures and flavors that perfectly complement each other. Whether you’re serving it at a casual gathering or just craving a delicious homemade dessert, this caramel slice strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and decadence that everyone will adore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this Caramel Slice Recipe is wonderfully simple but crucial to nailing that perfect texture and flavor. Each item plays a key role in building the layers that make this dessert so unforgettable.
- 1 cup flour, plain/all purpose: The sturdy base that creates a crumbly, buttery crust to hold everything together.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, loosely packed: Adds natural sweetness and a hint of molasses to the base layer.
- 1/2 cup desiccated coconut: Brings a lovely chewiness and subtle tropical flavor to the crust.
- 125g unsalted butter, melted: Keeps the base rich and tender, binding it perfectly.
- 125g unsalted butter, roughly chopped: Used later to enrich the caramel, giving it beautiful creaminess.
- 1/2 cup (80g) brown sugar, loosely packed: Sweetens the caramel and deepens its flavor.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the caramel layer with warm, aromatic notes.
- 395g sweetened condensed milk (1 can, 300ml): The secret to that ultra-smooth, thick caramel consistency everyone will swoon over.
- 200g dark or milk melting chocolate: Creates a shiny, decadent finish that adds a satisfying snap when you bite in.
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil: Ensures the chocolate topping stays glossy and easy to slice.
How to Make Caramel Slice Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Start by preheating your oven to create a cozy environment for baking. Combine the flour, brown sugar, and desiccated coconut in a large mixing bowl, then stir in the melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this evenly into a lined slice tin to form the base. Baking it for 10-15 minutes will give you that golden, crisp foundation that supports the luscious caramel perfectly.
Step 2: Make the Caramel Layer
While the base is cooling slightly, combine the roughly chopped butter, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and sweetened condensed milk in a saucepan over low heat. Stir continuously to prevent burning and to allow everything to melt together into a thick, smooth caramel. Once ready, pour this velvety layer over the baked base and return it to the oven for around 20 minutes. This step is where the magic happens as the caramel firms into a luscious, chewy texture.
Step 3: Add the Chocolate Topping
When your caramel layer has set and cooled slightly, melt the dark or milk chocolate with the vegetable oil gently over a double boiler or in short bursts in the microwave. Pour the glossy chocolate over the caramel, spreading it evenly for a perfect finish. Pop the slice into the fridge to chill until the chocolate is set and firm to touch. Then, slice into squares, and you have a classic caramel slice that’s irresistible!
How to Serve Caramel Slice Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your caramel slice, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the chocolate before it sets to add a gourmet twist that cuts through the sweetness beautifully. You can also dust the slices lightly with cocoa powder or finely chopped toasted nuts for added texture and flair.
Side Dishes
This sweet treat pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of freshly brewed coffee or a comforting mug of tea. For a refreshing twist, serve caramel slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance its richness and add creaminess.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut your caramel slice into fun shapes using cookie cutters for parties or gift them in decorative boxes tied with a ribbon for special occasions. You can also stack smaller squares on a dessert platter interspersed with fresh berries and mint leaves for a visually dazzling dessert table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover caramel slice in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 5 days, making it an ideal treat to enjoy throughout the week or share with friends.
Freezing
Want to save some for longer? Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. The caramel slice freezes well for up to 2 months and can be thawed overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
Caramel slice is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating is usually not necessary. However, if you prefer a softer texture, warm slices gently in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds, but be careful not to melt the chocolate topping completely.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter in this Caramel Slice Recipe?
You can use salted butter if that’s what you have on hand, but be mindful to reduce or omit adding extra salt elsewhere to avoid an overly salty taste. Unsalted butter allows better control over the sweetness and saltiness.
Is desiccated coconut essential in the base?
Desiccated coconut adds a lovely texture and slight nuttiness that complements the caramel beautifully. If you aren’t a fan, you can omit it or substitute finely chopped nuts, but the overall texture of the base may change slightly.
Can I make the caramel layer vegan?
Traditional caramel in this recipe relies on sweetened condensed milk and butter, which are not vegan. For a vegan adaptation, you’ll need to use plant-based butter and a vegan condensed milk alternative, although the texture and taste will differ somewhat.
What type of chocolate works best for the topping?
Both dark and milk chocolate work wonderfully depending on your preference. Dark chocolate offers a rich, slightly bitter contrast to the sweet caramel, while milk chocolate keeps it sweeter and creamier. Choose high-quality melting chocolate for the best finish.
How can I get clean slices without cracking the chocolate?
Use a hot, sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts. Chilling the slice thoroughly before slicing also helps prevent cracking and ensures neat, smooth edges.
Final Thoughts
This Caramel Slice Recipe is a true classic that blends simplicity with sheer indulgence in every bite. It’s perfect for sharing, gifting, or simply treating yourself on a cozy afternoon. Once you try making it at home, you’ll discover why it’s such a beloved dessert. So gather your ingredients, have fun in the kitchen, and prepare to fall in love with this irresistible caramel slice!
Print
Caramel Slice Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12-16 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Australian
Description
A classic caramel slice featuring a buttery coconut base topped with a luscious layer of homemade caramel and a smooth chocolate topping. This sweet treat is perfect for satisfying your dessert cravings with its rich, chewy, and chocolatey flavors.
Ingredients
Base
- 1 cup plain/all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, loosely packed
- 1/2 cup desiccated coconut (sweetened finely shredded coconut)
- 125g / 4.5oz unsalted butter, melted
Caramel Layer
- 125g / 4.5oz unsalted butter, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup (80g) brown sugar, loosely packed
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (or essence)
- 395g / 14oz sweetened condensed milk (1 can, 300ml)
Chocolate Topping
- 200g / 7oz dark or milk melting chocolate (semi-sweet chocolate chips)
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). In a mixing bowl, combine the plain flour, brown sugar, and desiccated coconut. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture is well combined. Press this mixture evenly into the base of a greased 20x20cm (8×8 inch) baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10–15 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from oven and set aside.
- Make the Caramel Layer: In a saucepan over low heat, combine the roughly chopped unsalted butter, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and sweetened condensed milk. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens and turns golden caramel in color, this usually takes 10–15 minutes. Pour the cooled caramel mixture evenly over the baked base and return to the oven for another 15–20 minutes or until the caramel is set but still slightly soft in the center. Remove and let cool completely.
- Prepare the Chocolate Topping: Melt the dark or milk chocolate with the vegetable oil in a heatproof bowl over simmering water (double boiler method) or in short bursts in the microwave, stirring until smooth. Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel layer and spread evenly. Allow the chocolate to set at room temperature or refrigerate until firm.
- Serve: Once fully set, cut the caramel slice into 12–16 squares. Serve and enjoy your delicious homemade caramel slice!
Notes
- Use sweetened desiccated coconut for the authentic texture and flavor of the base.
- Ensure the caramel is thickened properly for a perfect chewy texture.
- You can substitute dark chocolate with milk chocolate depending on your preference.
- Store caramel slice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
