Of course! Caramel Chocolate Crunch Bars are an irresistible no-bake treat that combines a crispy, buttery base with a layer of soft caramel and a rich chocolate topping. They’re incredibly easy to make and always a hit.
Here’s a classic and reliable recipe for them.
Caramel Chocolate Crunch Bars
This recipe makes one 9×13 inch pan, perfect for cutting into squares.
Ingredients:
For the Base & Topping:
· 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
· 1/2 cup granulated sugar
· 3 cups crispy rice cereal (like Rice Krispies)
· 2 cups quick-cooking oats
· 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut (optional, but highly recommended)
For the Caramel Layer:
· 1 bag (11 oz) soft caramel candies, unwrapped (e.g., Kraft Caramels)
· 1/3 cup heavy cream, half-and-half, or whole milk
· Pinch of salt
For the Chocolate Topping:
· 1 bag (12 oz) semi-sweet chocolate chips
· 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter (This acts as a stabilizer and adds fantastic flavor. For a nut-free version, use more chocolate or 1/2 cup of additional butter.)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pan:
· Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving an overhang on two sides. This will make it incredibly easy to lift the entire block of bars out for slicing. Lightly grease the paper/foil.
- Make the Base Layer:
· In a large saucepan, melt the butter and sugar over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture begins to bubble.
· Remove the pan from the heat and immediately stir in the crispy rice cereal, oats, and coconut (if using) until everything is evenly coated.
· Reserve about 1 cup of this mixture for the topping. Press the remaining mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Use the bottom of a measuring cup to pack it down well.
- Make the Caramel Layer:
· In a medium saucepan, combine the unwrapped caramels and heavy cream.
· Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the caramels are completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
· Stir in a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
· Immediately pour the melted caramel evenly over the pressed base layer. Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to spread it carefully.
- Make the Chocolate Topping:
· In a microwave-safe bowl or using a double boiler, combine the chocolate chips and peanut butter.
· Heat in 30-second bursts in the microwave, stirring after each interval, until completely melted and smooth. (Alternatively, melt over a pot of simmering water).
· Pour the chocolate mixture over the caramel layer and spread it evenly.
- Add the Topping and Chill:
· Sprinkle the reserved 1 cup of the oat-cereal mixture evenly over the warm chocolate layer, gently pressing it in.
· Refrigerate the pan for at least 2-3 hours, or until the chocolate and caramel layers are completely firm.
- Slice and Serve:
· Once set, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the entire block out of the pan.
· Place it on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to cut into squares or bars.
· For the cleanest cuts, you can briefly warm the knife under hot water and wipe it dry between slices.
Pro Tips for Success:
· Press Firmly: The key to these bars holding together is firmly packing the base layer into the pan. Don’t be gentle!
· Low Heat for Caramel: Melt the caramel over low heat and stir constantly to prevent it from seizing or burning.
· Peanut Butter Substitute: If you need a nut-free version, you can replace the peanut butter in the chocolate layer with:
· 1/4 cup of additional butter, melted with the chocolate.
· A extra 1/2 cup of chocolate chips, melted.
· A tablespoon of coconut oil, melted with the chocolate.
· Storage: Store these bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. They are best served cool.
· Shortcut Option: For an even quicker caramel layer, you can use a jar of store-bought caramel ice cream topping (like Smucker’s). Gently warm it to make it spreadable. You may need to reduce the cream in the recipe by a tablespoon or two if the sauce is already thin.
Enjoy these decadent, crunchy, and chewy bars! They are the perfect combination of textures and flavors.