Caramel Crush Bars Dessert is a delightful treat that perfectly combines the rich flavors of chocolate, caramel, and graham crackers. These bars are easy to make and incredibly satisfying, presenting a sweet finish to any meal. They’re an ideal dessert for gatherings or a cozy night in, offering a taste experience that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 12
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 220
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 120mg
Why Make This Caramel Crush Bars Dessert
These Caramel Crush Bars Dessert are a crowd-pleaser! With their buttery graham cracker crust, luscious layers of sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, and gooey caramel sauce, each bite is a perfect blend of textures and flavors. They strike that wonderful balance between creamy and crunchy, making them not just another dessert, but a memorable treat that satisfies any sweet tooth. Plus, they’re quick to whip up, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings or family cravings.
How to Make Caramel Crush Bars Dessert
Ingredients:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 cup caramel sauce
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Directions:
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Step 1: Preparation
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing the baking dish beforehand will ensure easy removal of the bars once they’re baked.
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Step 2: Mixing
In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated. This mixture will base your bars, giving them a wonderful flavor.
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Step 3: Cooking
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of your greased baking dish to form a crust. Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the crust, followed by a generous sprinkle of chocolate chips. Drizzle caramel sauce over the chocolate chips. If you choose to use nuts, sprinkle them on top for added crunch.
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Step 4: Finishing
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Once done, remove from the oven and allow it to cool before cutting into bars and serving. The cooling time allows the layers to set properly.
How to Serve Caramel Crush Bars Dessert
These bars are incredibly versatile. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a comforting dessert or at room temperature as a sweet snack. They also make excellent additions to a dessert platter or potluck spread—everyone will love this sweet indulgence!
How to Store Caramel Crush Bars Dessert
To store leftover bars, place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you want to extend their freshness, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Expert Tips for Perfect Caramel Crush Bars Dessert
- Make sure to press the graham cracker crust firmly to avoid it crumbling when you cut the bars.
- For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of salt to the caramel sauce before drizzling it over the chocolate.
- You can use mini chocolate chips for easier distribution or all chocolate chips if you desire a stronger chocolate flavor.
- If you’re not a fan of nuts, leave them out, or substitute with crushed pretzels for a salty crunch.
Delicious Variations
- Chocolate Mint Caramel Bars: Add peppermint extract to the chocolate chips for a refreshing twist.
- Nutty Caramel Crunch: Substitute the graham cracker crumbs with crushed cookies or nuts for a different texture.
- Peanut Butter Caramel Bars: Swirl peanut butter into the caramel sauce to give a rich, nutty flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare them a day in advance, just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. -
What can I use instead of graham cracker crumbs?
You can use digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or even oat flour for a gluten-free alternative. -
How do I know when the bars are done?
The edges should be golden brown, and you will see a slight bubbling around the edges. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs. -
Can I use homemade caramel sauce?
Absolutely! Homemade caramel adds an extra special touch to these bars and can be made ahead of time. -
What’s the best way to cut these bars?
For clean cuts, use a sharp knife dipped in warm water. Wipe the knife dry after each cut to maintain the clean edges.
Conclusion
These Caramel Crush Bars Dessert are easy to make and simply irresistible. With delectable layers of sweetened condensed milk, rich chocolate, and gooey caramel, they deliver a heavenly taste that both kids and adults will adore. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to indulge your sweet tooth, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. Don’t forget to gather your ingredients and try making these bars today; you won’t be disappointed!
