Salted Caramel Latte Blondies

Ingredients:

1/2 C butter

1 C brown sugar

2 eggs

1/2 tsp vanilla extract

1/4 tsp caramel extract

1 C flour

1 tsp baking powder

1/2 tbsp espresso poweder

1 package SmartSweets Caramels

Flaky sea salt

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Steps:

1. In a small sauce pan, fully melt the butter then add to a mixing bowl.

2. While the butter is melting, preheat the oven to 350 and dice up the caramel pieces (I cut each piece into 3 pieces)

3. Add the brown sugar and mix until incorporated.

4. Once the butter and brown sugar are mixed, add in the eggs, vanilla extract, and caramel extract. Mix until well combined.

5. Add in the flour, baking powder, and espresso powder to bowl and mix until just combined.

6. Pour half of the batter into a 9x9 pan lined with parchment paper.

7. Evenly sprinkle the diced caramel pieces on top of the batter then top with the remaining batter.

8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean.

9. Sprinkle with sea salt immediately after removing from the oven.

10. Allow to fully cool before slicing.

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Why use SmartSweets Caramels for this recipe? SmartSweets Caramels are plant based and not full of artifical ingredients! When baking for my friends and family, and when developing recipes for all of you, my goal has always been to make something that is tasty but free from artifical!! Our world is full of delicious ingredients, why use something that is made from chemicals and not good for our bodies.

Whenever I venture to a new coffee shop, my go to order is always a caramel latte! It's my tride and true flavor that I can always count on! Making these blondies, I wanted them to have that same power, to be a solid recipe that would work for everyone. The sweetness from the caramel pairs perfectly with the salty topping. The espresso comes out in the end, but does not overpower the caramel, the perfect bite!