Description
Irresistible Caramel Chocolate Crunch Bars
Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup caramel sauce
1 cup chocolate chunks
1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
1/2 cup chocolate chips
Directions:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a bowl, mix together the flour, brown sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased baking dish to form the crust.
Bake the crust for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Remove the crust from the oven and immediately pour the caramel sauce over the hot crust.
Sprinkle the chocolate chunks and chopped nuts (if using) evenly over the caramel layer.
Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the caramel is bubbly and the chocolate is melted.
Remove from the oven and sprinkle the chocolate chips over the top. Let them melt slightly and spread with a spatula if desired.
Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into squares.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 22 minutes | Total Time: 37 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 12 bars
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect bars every time. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8 or 9×9 inch baking dish. In a medium bowl, combine the 2 cups of flour and 1/2 cup of brown sugar. Stir in the 1 cup of melted butter until a soft, crumbly dough forms. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared dish. Pre-bake this crust for 10-12 minutes until the edges are just beginning to turn golden. As soon as you remove the hot crust, pour the 1 cup of caramel sauce over it, spreading it to the edges. Immediately sprinkle with 1 cup of chocolate chunks and 1/2 cup of optional nuts. Bake for another 10 minutes. Finally, remove from the oven and immediately top with the 1/2 cup of chocolate chips, letting them sit for 2 minutes before gently swirling.
Serving Suggestions
These rich bars are versatile. For a decadent dessert, serve slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a festive touch, sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt before the chocolate sets. They pair perfectly with a cup of black coffee or a glass of cold milk. For gifting, allow bars to set completely, then wrap individually in parchment paper for a beautiful homemade treat.
How-to Summary
To summarize: Mix flour, sugar, and butter for the crust, then press and bake. Top the hot crust with caramel, chocolate chunks, and nuts, then bake again. Finish by melting chocolate chips on top after baking. The most crucial step is allowing the bars to cool completely before cutting; this ensures clean slices and proper setting of the layers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce? Yes, a good quality jarred caramel sauce works perfectly. For a thicker layer, you can slightly warm it before pouring.
How should I store these bars? Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer for up to 3 months.
Can I make these gluten-free? Absolutely. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for excellent results.
My caramel layer seeped into the crust. What happened? This usually means the crust was not hot enough when the caramel was added. Ensure you pour the caramel immediately after removing the crust from the oven.
What’s the best way to cut them cleanly? Use a sharp knife wiped clean with a hot, damp cloth between cuts. For the cleanest edges, chill the pan for 20 minutes before cutting.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls for the best texture. First, do not overmix the crust; just combine until it comes together. Overmixing can make it tough. Second, do not skip the initial pre-bake of the crust, as this prevents a soggy bottom. Third, resist the urge to cut the bars while they are still warm, as this will create a messy, gooey result. Finally, ensure your butter is melted but not scalding hot when added to the dry ingredients.
Conclusion
These Irresistible Caramel Chocolate Crunch Bars are the ultimate easy yet impressive treat. With a perfect balance of buttery crust, gooey caramel, and rich chocolate, they are guaranteed to satisfy any sweet craving. By following this enhanced guide and avoiding common errors, you’ll create a flawless dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual snacks to special gatherings. Enjoy the delicious results of your simple baking effort!