Decadent Caramel Chocolate Crunch Bars Recipe

Introduction

These Decadent Caramel Chocolate Crunch Bars combine a crispy graham cracker base with rich melted chocolate and luscious caramel sauce. Optional mini marshmallows and nuts add a delightful chewy and crunchy texture, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 cup crushed graham crackers (for the base)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted (for binding)
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (for melting over the base)
• 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup mini marshmallows (optional, for a chewy effect)
• ½ cup chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts, optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers and melted butter. Mix until all crumbs are coated and press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
3. Step 3: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
4. Step 4: Pour the melted chocolate evenly over the graham cracker base and smooth it out with a spatula.
5. Step 5: Drizzle the caramel sauce over the melted chocolate, creating swirls for an attractive finish.
6. Step 6: If using, sprinkle the mini marshmallows evenly on top of the caramel layer.
7. Step 7: If using, scatter the chopped nuts over the marshmallows and caramel.
8. Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, until everything is set and the marshmallows are lightly toasted.
9. Step 9: Allow the bars to cool completely before lifting them out of the pan using the parchment paper.
10. Step 10: Cut into squares and enjoy your delicious caramel chocolate crunch bars!

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking to balance the sweetness.
• Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate for a richer taste.
• Use toasted nuts for added depth or try different nuts like almonds or hazelnuts.
• If you want a thicker base, increase the graham cracker and butter amount slightly.
• To make it nut-free, simply omit the nuts and add extra marshmallows or chocolate chips.

Storage

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them refrigerated for up to a week. Before serving refrigerated bars, let them come to room temperature or warm slightly to soften the caramel and chocolate layers.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these bars without marshmallows?

Yes, the marshmallows are optional and you can omit them if you prefer a simpler texture. The bars will still be delicious with just the caramel, chocolate, and nuts.

Can I use homemade caramel sauce?

Absolutely! Homemade caramel sauce works wonderfully and can add a personal touch to the bars. Just make sure it’s at room temperature for easy drizzling.

Decadent Caramel Chocolate Crunch Bars Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 103 reviews

• Author: Lily
• Total Time: 22 minutes
• Yield: 16 bars 1x

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Description

These Decadent Caramel Chocolate Crunch Bars combine a crispy graham cracker base with rich melted chocolate, gooey caramel swirls, and optional chewy marshmallows and crunchy nuts. Baked briefly to set the layers and lightly toast the marshmallows, these bars offer a delightful mix of textures and flavors, perfect for an indulgent dessert or snack.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Base

• 1 cup crushed graham crackers
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

Chocolate Layer

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Caramel and Toppings

• 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup mini marshmallows (optional)
• ½ cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts, optional)

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Instructions

1. Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
2. Make the base: In a medium bowl, mix the crushed graham crackers with the melted butter until all crumbs are evenly coated. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating a solid crust.
3. Melt the chocolate: Place the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring well between each interval until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
4. Spread chocolate layer: Pour the melted chocolate over the graham cracker base, smoothing it out with a spatula to form an even layer.
5. Add caramel sauce: Drizzle the caramel sauce over the melted chocolate in swirls, creating a marbled effect.
6. Add toppings: If using, sprinkle the mini marshmallows evenly on top of the caramel. Then add the chopped nuts over the marshmallows for extra crunch and flavor.
7. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. This allows the layers to set and gives the marshmallows a light toasting for added texture and taste.
8. Cool and serve: Remove the dish from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely. Use the parchment paper to lift the bars out of the dish, then cut into squares and enjoy your decadent treat!

Notes

• For best results, use high-quality semi-sweet chocolate chips.
• Optional marshmallows and nuts add extra texture but can be omitted for a simpler bar.
• Ensure the bars are fully cooled before cutting to avoid melting layers and to maintain clean slices.
• Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
• Homemade caramel sauce can be substituted for store-bought to customize sweetness and flavor.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: caramel chocolate bars, graham cracker dessert, chocolate caramel bars, easy baked sweets, marshmallow bars, crunchy nut bars