Chocolate Caramel Bars: A Delicious Treat for All Ages
These decadent Chocolate Caramel Bars are a delicious combination of buttery shortbread, rich caramel, and smooth dark chocolate, making them the perfect dessert for gatherings, kids’ lunches, or any time you’re craving a sweet indulgence. With a crispy base, creamy caramel layer, and a glossy chocolate topping, these bars are a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.
Recipe Overview:
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars
- Recipe Category: Bar Cookie
- Keywords: Dessert, Cookie & Brownie, Toddler Friendly, Kid Friendly, Potluck, < 60 Mins, Oven, Stove Top, Inexpensive
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1 1/2 cups |
| Butter (unsalted) | 1/2 cup (cubed) |
| Soft brown sugar | 3/4 cup |
| Butter (unsalted) | 10 tablespoons |
| Soft brown sugar | 3/4 cup |
| Dark chocolate (chopped) | 5 1/2 ounces |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 360.6 kcal |
| Fat Content | 17.9 g |
| Saturated Fat Content | 10.7 g |
| Cholesterol Content | 43.7 mg |
| Sodium Content | 134.9 mg |
| Carbohydrate Content | 45.4 g |
| Fiber Content | 0.9 g |
| Sugar Content | 32.4 g |
| Protein Content | 5.5 g |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Pan:
- Begin by greasing a 9-inch square cake pan with butter or non-stick spray. This will prevent the bars from sticking and ensure easy removal once they’re cooled.
-
Make the Shortbread Base:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, sift the all-purpose flour.
- Add the cubed butter into the sifted flour and use your fingertips to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs.
- Add the soft brown sugar and mix until fully incorporated into a firm dough.
- Press this dough evenly into the prepared pan, making sure the surface is smooth. Use a fork to prick the dough all over to prevent it from puffing up during baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the shortbread is lightly golden around the edges. Allow the base to cool completely in the pan.
-
Prepare the Caramel Topping:
- While the base cools, make the caramel topping. In a non-stick saucepan, combine the butter, soft brown sugar, and condensed milk.
- Place the pan over gentle heat and stir constantly until the butter has melted and the mixture begins to bubble.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let the caramel simmer for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The caramel should thicken and turn a pale golden color, and it will begin to pull away from the sides of the pan.
- Carefully pour the hot caramel over the cooled shortbread base. Spread it evenly with a spatula and let it set at room temperature until the caramel cools completely.
-
Add the Chocolate Layer:
- Break the dark chocolate into pieces and melt it gently. You can do this in a heatproof bowl over a pan of simmering water (double boiler method) or in the microwave, stirring every 20 seconds to avoid burning.
- Once the chocolate has fully melted, pour it over the cooled caramel layer. Spread it evenly with a spatula to cover the entire surface.
- Allow the chocolate to cool and set at room temperature until it is firm.
-
Cut and Serve:
- Once the chocolate is completely set, cut the bars into squares or fingers, depending on your preferred serving size.
- Serve and enjoy! These bars are perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a sweet treat for family gatherings.
Tips for Success
- Storage: Store the chocolate caramel bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you need to store them for longer, refrigerate them, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
- Customizations: Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate or even add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a salted caramel version. You can also try using a different type of sugar, such as white sugar or coconut sugar, for slightly different results.
- Make Ahead: These bars can be made ahead of time, making them perfect for parties or events. The caramel and chocolate layers set beautifully, and the bars only improve in flavor as they rest.
Why You’ll Love These Bars
- Rich and Indulgent: The buttery shortbread base pairs perfectly with the creamy caramel and smooth dark chocolate. Each bite offers the ideal combination of flavors and textures.
- Kid-Friendly: These bars are a great choice for kids’ lunches, school parties, or after-school snacks. They’re sure to be a hit with even the pickiest eaters.
- Inexpensive and Easy: Despite being so delicious, these bars use basic ingredients that are likely already in your pantry, making them an affordable treat that’s easy to prepare in less than an hour.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a potluck, attending a bake sale, or just looking for a sweet snack to satisfy your chocolate cravings, these bars fit the bill.
Try these Chocolate Caramel Bars today and enjoy a treat that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat!
