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.

Ingredients

Scale

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)

Instructions

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.
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.
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.
Spread chocolate layer: Pour the melted chocolate over the graham cracker base, smoothing it out with a spatula to form an even layer.
Add caramel sauce: Drizzle the caramel sauce over the melted chocolate in swirls, creating a marbled effect.
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.
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.
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