Caramel Chocolate Crunch Bars Recipe
Introduction
These Caramel Chocolate Crunch Bars combine a buttery crumbly crust with rich caramel and melted chocolate for a decadent treat. With a satisfying crunch and gooey layers, they make a perfect dessert or snack for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup caramel sauce
- 1 cup chocolate chunks
- ½ cup chocolate chips
- ½ cup chopped nuts (optional)
- ¼ tsp sea salt (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper.
- Step 2: Mix the flour, brown sugar, and melted butter together until the mixture is crumbly, then press it evenly into the prepared pan.
- Step 3: Bake the crust for 10–12 minutes until it turns lightly golden.
- Step 4: Pour the caramel sauce over the warm crust and spread it evenly.
- Step 5: Sprinkle the chocolate chunks and chopped nuts (if using) evenly over the caramel layer.
- Step 6: Bake for another 10 minutes until the caramel begins to bubble.
- Step 7: Remove from the oven and top with chocolate chips; let them melt before gently spreading.
- Step 8: Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing into squares.
Tips & Variations
- Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor and texture.
- Add a pinch of sea salt or toasted nuts to enhance the flavor profile.
- Chill the bars before slicing to achieve neat, clean squares.
Storage
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the bars for 2–3 months and thaw before serving. Reheat gently if you prefer warm bars.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but reduce or omit the added sea salt to avoid making the bars too salty.
What can I substitute for the nuts if I have allergies?
You can omit the nuts or replace them with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for added crunch without allergens.
PrintCaramel Chocolate Crunch Bars Recipe
Delight in these decadent Caramel Chocolate Crunch Bars featuring a buttery crumbly base, luscious caramel layer, and a melty chocolate topping with an optional nutty crunch. Perfectly baked to golden perfection and ideal for chocolate and caramel lovers seeking a rich, buttery treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Total Time: 37 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Base
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling and Topping
- 1 cup caramel sauce
- 1 cup chocolate chunks
- ½ cup chocolate chips
- ½ cup chopped nuts (optional)
- ¼ tsp sea salt (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the bars after baking.
- Make the Crust: Combine the all-purpose flour, brown sugar, and melted unsalted butter in a mixing bowl. Stir until the mixture becomes crumbly and evenly combined. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared baking pan to form the crust layer.
- Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes or until it turns lightly golden brown, creating a sturdy and flavorful base.
- Add Caramel Layer: Remove the crust from the oven and immediately pour the caramel sauce evenly over the warm crust. Use a spatula to spread the caramel smoothly across the surface.
- Add Chocolate and Nuts: Sprinkle the chocolate chunks and chopped nuts evenly over the caramel layer. If using sea salt, sprinkle it at this stage for a subtle salty contrast.
- Second Bake: Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes until the caramel is bubbly and the chocolate starts melting into the caramel.
- Add Chocolate Chips: Remove the pan from the oven and immediately sprinkle the chocolate chips on top. Allow them to melt slightly, then gently spread with a spatula to create a smooth chocolate topping.
- Cool Completely: Let the bars cool completely at room temperature so the layers set firmly, making them easier to cut.
- Slice and Serve: Once cooled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper, slice into squares, and serve.
Notes
- Use high-quality chocolate chunks and chips for the best rich flavor and melt consistency.
- Add a pinch of sea salt or toasted nuts for enhanced flavor and texture.
- For cleaner bar slices, chill the bars in the refrigerator before cutting.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- Freeze leftover bars for up to 2–3 months, thaw before serving.
Keywords: Caramel bars, Chocolate bars, Crunch bars, Baked dessert, Caramel chocolate bars
