Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Base

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Ensure it reaches the correct temperature before baking.
2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of softened unsalted butter, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Press into Pan: Press the dough evenly into the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking pan lined with parchment paper. Use the back of a spoon to smooth the surface.
4. Bake the Base: Bake the base in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until it turns golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Caramel Layer

1. Melt the Butter and Sugar: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1/2 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir constantly to prevent burning.
2. Add the Cream: Once the mixture turns a golden brown, slowly add 1/2 cup of heavy cream while stirring continuously. Be careful as the mixture will bubble up.
3. Cook the Caramel: Continue to cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens and reaches a deep amber color. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
4. Pour Over Base: Pour the caramel evenly over the baked base. Spread it with a spatula if necessary to ensure an even layer. Let it cool completely.

For more detailed steps on making caramel, visit the Caramel Preparation Guide on Wikipedia.

Step 3: Add the Toppings (Optional)

1. Chocolate Topping: If desired, sprinkle 1 cup of chocolate chips over the hot caramel layer. Let them sit for a few minutes until they start to melt, then spread them evenly over the caramel with a spatula.
2. Nut Topping: Sprinkle 1/2 cup of chopped nuts (such as pecans or almonds) over the melted chocolate layer. Press them gently into the chocolate to ensure they stick.

Step 4: Cool and Cut

1. Cool Completely: Allow the caramel bars to cool completely at room temperature. For faster results, place them in the refrigerator for about 1 hour.
2. Cut into Bars: Once cooled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper. Use a sharp knife to cut them into squares or rectangles.