Caramel Delight Candy Bars are a delectable treat that combines rich caramel, crunchy shortbread, and a smooth chocolate coating. It’s a dessert that will satisfy your sweet tooth and impress anyone who gets a taste. Perfect for gatherings or simply as a delightful snack at home, these candy bars truly channel the essence of indulgence.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 24 bars
Difficulty Level: Medium

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 300
Protein: 2g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 30g
Sodium: 150mg

Why Make This Caramel Delight Candy Bars

These Caramel Delight Candy Bars are not just a dessert; they are an experience. The combination of creamy caramel and crunchy toasted coconut, all wrapped in a buttery shortbread base, creates a flavor profile that’s simply irresistible. Plus, they are easy to share, making them a fantastic addition to parties, picnics, or holidays. Everyone loves a treat that looks as good as it tastes!

How to Make Caramel Delight Candy Bars

Crafting these bars might seem a bit complex, but the steps are straightforward. Follow along for an enjoyable cooking journey that leads you to your own homemade candy bars!

Ingredients:

680 grams Evaporated milk (2, 12-ounce cans)
280 grams heavy cream (fill up one of the 12-ounce cans)
680 grams white sugar
4 grams salt
150 grams butter
570 grams corn syrup
310 grams sweetened coconut, toasted
520 grams flour
100 grams white sugar
100 grams brown sugar
3 grams salt
300 grams butter, cold and cut into small pieces
10 grams vanilla
250 grams melted chocolate for layering between shortbread and caramel
3 lbs tempered chocolate or candy coating for dipping

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a baking pan with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later on.
Step 2: Mixing

In a large mixing bowl, combine 520 grams of flour, 100 grams of white sugar, 100 grams of brown sugar, and 3 grams of salt. Add the cold butter pieces and mix using a pastry cutter or your hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 3: Cooking

Press the shortbread mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan and bake for 20 minutes. While that’s baking, prepare the caramel. In a saucepan, combine evaporated milk, heavy cream, 680 grams of white sugar, salt, corn syrup, and 150 grams of butter. Stir continuously over medium heat until it becomes bubbly and thickens, about 30 minutes.
Step 4: Finishing

Once the caramel is ready, remove it from heat and stir in the toasted coconut. Pour this mixture over the baked shortbread layer and place it back in the oven for an additional 10 minutes. Let the bars cool before drizzling with 250 grams of melted chocolate, allowing it to set. Finally, dip each bar in the tempered chocolate for a rich, decadent finish.

How to Serve Caramel Delight Candy Bars

Serve these bars chilled or at room temperature, cut into squares or rectangles. They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate, making for a cozy afternoon treat.

How to Store Caramel Delight Candy Bars

Store your Caramel Delight Candy Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to three months. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Expert Tips for Perfect Caramel Delight Candy Bars

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh butter and dairy make a big difference in flavor.
Watch the caramel: Pay close attention while cooking the caramel to avoid burning it. Stir constantly until it’s thick and bubbly.
Chill before cutting: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to ensure clean slices.
Tempered chocolate: For a perfect chocolate coating, make sure your chocolate is tempered; it will have a beautiful shine and snap when set.

Delicious Variations

Nutty twist: Add chopped nuts like pecans or almonds for additional texture and flavor.
Chocolate cookie base: Replace the shortbread with a chocolate cookie crust for a double chocolate delight.
Fruit addition: Incorporate dried fruits or fresh berries for an unexpected burst of flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I substitute for evaporated milk?
You can use whole milk or heavy cream mixed with a bit of water as a substitute.
Can I use unsweetened coconut?
It’s best to use sweetened coconut since it balances the flavors, but you can use unsweetened if desired; just increase the sugar slightly.
How can I tell when caramel is done?
The caramel should bubble vigorously and coat the back of a spoon. If it starts turning golden, it’s close to being done.
Is tempered chocolate necessary?
While it isn’t strictly necessary, tempered chocolate gives the bars a beautiful finish and helps them snap when you bite into them.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.

Conclusion

These Caramel Delight Candy Bars are the ultimate indulgence for candy lovers! With a beautiful combination of layers and flavors, they are sure to impress both family and friends. The satisfaction of making these from scratch is part of the fun, and the end result is a treat that will have everyone coming back for more. So gather your ingredients and get ready to create a candy masterpiece that delights both the eyes and the taste buds! Enjoy your delicious creation!