👩‍🍳 How to Make Caramel Chocolate Crunch Bars
Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Make the Crust
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
Press evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a firm crust.
Bake the Crust
Bake the crust for 10–12 minutes, or until lightly golden at the edges.
Add the Caramel Layer
Remove the crust from the oven. While it’s still hot, pour the caramel sauce evenly over the base.
Top with Chocolate & Nuts
Sprinkle chocolate chunks and optional chopped nuts over the caramel.
Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the caramel is bubbling and the chocolate has softened.
Finish with Chocolate Chips
Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle chocolate chips on top. Let them melt slightly, then gently spread for a smooth finish if desired.
Cool & Cut
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan—this step is crucial for clean slicing. Once cooled, cut into squares or bars and enjoy!
⏱️ Quick Recipe Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 22 minutes
Total Time: 37 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Calories per serving: ~320 kcal
đź’ˇ Tips & Variations
Homemade Caramel Sauce: Want a deeper flavor? Use homemade caramel by melting sugar with butter and cream. A pinch of sea salt can turn this into salted caramel perfection.
Nut-Free Option: Skip the nuts if you’re avoiding allergens—these bars are still deliciously rich and satisfying.
Add Texture: Crushed pretzels, toffee bits, or even cereal like Rice Krispies can be sprinkled in for extra crunch.
Cutting Clean Squares: Chill bars in the fridge for 30 minutes before slicing to keep the layers neat and firm.
Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3–4 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
🎉 Final Thoughts
These Caramel Chocolate Crunch Bars deliver everything a dessert lover dreams of: rich caramel, luscious chocolate, and a buttery base with just the right amount of crunch. They come together in under 40 minutes with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Whether you’re making a batch for a party, gifting to a friend, or just treating yourself—you can’t go wrong with this easy, irresistible dessert.
