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Irresistible Caramel Chocolate Crunch Bars

Irresistible Caramel Chocolate Crunch Bars

Irresistible Caramel Chocolate Crunch Bars bring together layers of a crunchy base, gooey caramel, and rich chocolate topped with optional nuts or sea salt. Easy to make and customizable, these bars offer a perfect balance of textures and flavors, ideal for snacks, parties, or gifting.

  • Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (including chilling time)
  • Yield: 12 bars 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Crunchy Base

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs or crushed digestive biscuits (can substitute gluten-free cookies for gluten-free option)
  • 6 tbsp melted butter (or coconut oil for dairy-free version)

Caramel Layer

  • 12 oz soft caramel candies or homemade caramel sauce
  • 2 tbsp cream or butter (optional, for melting caramel)

Chocolate Layer

  • 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips (or dark chocolate for stronger flavor; use vegan chocolate for dairy-free)

Optional Toppings

  • Chopped pecans, almonds, or walnuts (optional)
  • Sea salt flakes (optional)
  • Toffee bits (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crunchy Base: Crush graham crackers or biscuits finely, then mix with melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture evenly into a lined baking pan to create a compact and sturdy base that supports the layers.
  2. Add the Caramel Layer: Heat caramel candies gently with cream or butter until smooth and flowing. Pour the caramel evenly over the base, ensuring it covers every edge to seal the crunchy layer underneath.
  3. Melt and Spread the Chocolate: Slowly melt chocolate chips over a double boiler or microwave in short bursts until smooth. Pour and spread a thick, even layer over the caramel, creating a glossy and inviting top layer.
  4. Add Optional Toppings: While the chocolate is still melted, sprinkle chopped nuts, sea salt flakes, or toffee bits on top. Press lightly to help them adhere as the chocolate cools and hardens.
  5. Chill and Cut: Refrigerate the pan for at least two hours until completely set. Once firm, lift the slab from the pan and cut into bars of your preferred size for easy serving.

Notes

  • Use room temperature ingredients to ensure better mixing and prevent chocolate cracking.
  • Press the base firmly to prevent crumbling when cutting bars.
  • Melt caramel slowly over low heat, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
  • Use high-quality chocolate chips or bars for enhanced flavor and finish.
  • Warm a sharp knife with hot water before slicing to get clean edges.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: No-bake / chilling
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free (with appropriate substitutions)

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bar (approximate)
  • Calories: 280 kcal
  • Sugar: 22 g
  • Sodium: 80 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg

Keywords: caramel bars, chocolate bars, crunchy dessert, caramel chocolate crunch bars, no-bake dessert, gluten-free dessert