Caramel Chocolate Bars

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Caramel Crunch Chocolate Bars: Buttery, Gooey, and Irresistibly Easy

A three-layer dessert with graham cracker crunch, gooey caramel, and silky chocolate—perfect for any sweet craving

Introduction: A Sweet Stack of Comfort

Some desserts are born from simplicity—and this one is a masterpiece of minimal ingredients with maximum flavor. These Caramel Crunch Chocolate Bars are the kind of treat you whip up when you want something rich, satisfying, and easy to share. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a gooey caramel center, and a smooth chocolate topping, each bite is a perfect balance of crunch, melt, and sweetness.

Whether you’re baking for a potluck, a cozy night in, or just because, this dessert is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s no-fuss, no mixer required, and no regrets.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at each luscious layer:

Crunch Layer:

  • Crushed graham crackers (1½ cups)
    Lightly sweet and crisp—forms the base of the bars.
  • Unsalted butter (½ cup, melted)
    Adds richness and binds the crust.
  • Granulated sugar (¼ cup)
    Sweetens and helps the crust set.

Optional: Add a pinch of cinnamon for extra warmth.

Caramel Layer:

  • Caramel candies (2 cups, unwrapped)
    Soft and chewy—melt into a gooey layer.
  • Heavy cream (2 tbsp)
    Smooths and softens the caramel for easy spreading.

Tip: Use soft caramel squares or bits for quick melting.

Chocolate Topping:

  • Milk chocolate chips (1 cup)
    Sweet and creamy—melts into a glossy top layer.
  • Vegetable oil (1 tsp, optional)
    Helps create a smooth, shiny finish.

Optional: Use dark chocolate for a richer flavor.

Equipment Needed

  • 8×8-inch baking dish
  • Parchment paper
  • Mixing bowls
  • Microwave-safe bowls
  • Spoon or spatula
  • Toothpick or fork (for swirls)

Tip: Use a glass dish to show off the layers.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crunch Layer

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.

In a bowl:

  • Mix 1½ cups crushed graham crackers, ½ cup melted butter, and ¼ cup sugar.

Press mixture evenly into the prepared dish.

Bake for 8–10 minutes, until lightly golden.

Set aside to cool.

Tip: Use the bottom of a glass to press crust firmly and evenly.

Step 2: Make the Caramel Layer

In a microwave-safe bowl:

  • Combine 2 cups caramel candies and 2 tbsp heavy cream.

Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth and melted.

Pour over cooled crust and spread evenly.

Let set for 10–15 minutes.

Optional: Chill briefly to speed up setting.

Step 3: Add the Chocolate Topping

In a microwave-safe bowl:

  • Melt 1 cup chocolate chips, adding 1 tsp vegetable oil if desired.

Heat in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth.

Pour over caramel layer and spread evenly.

Use a toothpick or fork to create decorative swirls.

Tip: Tap the dish gently to smooth the surface.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.

Lift out using parchment and slice into bars.

Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Yields:

  • 16 bars

Presentation Tip: Garnish with sea salt flakes or drizzle with white chocolate for contrast.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect for:

  • Bake sales
  • Holiday trays
  • Movie nights
  • Sweet cravings

Pair with:

  • Coffee or espresso
  • Vanilla ice cream
  • Hot cocoa
  • Sparkling water with citrus

Tip: Serve on a platter with fresh berries for a pop of color.

Variations to Try

Want to make them your own? Try these delicious twists:

Coconut Caramel Bars

Add shredded coconut to the crust or sprinkle on top.

Salted Caramel Crunch

Top with flaky sea salt for a sweet-salty finish.

Dark Chocolate Layer

Use bittersweet chocolate chips for a deeper flavor.

Nutty Crunch

Add chopped pecans or almonds between caramel and chocolate layers.

Vegan Version

Use plant-based butter, dairy-free caramel, and vegan chocolate chips.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Make-Ahead: Prepare up to 2 days in advance.
  • Refrigerate: Store in airtight container for up to 1 week.
  • Freeze: Freeze bars for up to 2 months. Thaw in fridge before serving.

Tip: Separate layers with parchment to prevent sticking.

Nutrition Notes (Per Bar, ~1 of 16)

  • Calories: ~280
  • Protein: ~2g
  • Carbohydrates: ~26g
  • Fat: ~18g
  • Sugar: ~20g
  • Sodium: ~90mg
  • Fiber: ~1g

These bars are:

  • Buttery and gooey
  • Easy to make
  • Perfectly portioned
  • Great for gifting

Final Thoughts

These Caramel Crunch Chocolate Bars are more than just a dessert—they’re a celebration of texture, flavor, and simplicity. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or treating yourself, they’re guaranteed to satisfy and impress.

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