Chocolate Caramel Squares Recipe
Welcome to Love with Recipes! Today, we’re diving into the delicious world of Chocolate Caramel Squares—a treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate, gooey caramel, and a hint of nuttiness in every bite. This recipe is perfect for those looking to whip up a delightful dessert that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Let’s explore the steps and ingredients that make these bars a crowd-pleaser!
Recipe Overview
- Name: Chocolate Caramel Squares
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 5 dozen squares
- Category: Bar Cookie
- Keywords: Dessert, Cookie & Brownie, Kid Friendly, < 60 Mins
Ingredients
Gather these simple yet essential ingredients to get started:
- 1 package (about 14 ounces) caramels
- 2/3 cup evaporated milk, divided
- 1 package (about 18.25 ounces) yellow cake mix
- 3/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- 1 package (12 ounces) semi-sweet chocolate morsels
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 1339
- Total Fat: 70.9g
- Saturated Fat: 32.3g
- Cholesterol: 88.6mg
- Sodium: 1287.9mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 177g
- Dietary Fiber: 8.1g
- Sugars: 123.8g
- Protein: 16.6g
Instructions
-
Prepare Caramel Mixture:
- In the top of a double boiler, combine the caramels and 1/3 cup of evaporated milk.
- Stir constantly over medium heat until the caramels are completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Once melted, remove from heat and set aside.
-
Prepare Cake Mix Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry cake mix, melted butter, remaining 1/3 cup of evaporated milk, and chopped nuts (if using).
- Stir until the mixture forms a dough that holds together.
-
Assemble and Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Press half of the cake mixture evenly into a greased 13x9x2 inch baking pan, forming a crust.
- Bake the crust for 6 minutes to set.
-
Layer Chocolate and Caramel:
- Sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate morsels evenly over the baked crust.
-
Pour Caramel Over Chocolate:
- Pour the melted caramel mixture over the chocolate morsels, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
-
Top with Remaining Cake Mixture:
- Crumble the remaining cake mixture over the caramel layer, creating a crumbly topping.
-
Bake Again:
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 15 to 18 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the caramel is bubbly.
-
Cool and Serve:
- Once baked, allow the pan to cool on a wire rack.
- For best results, chill the bars in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before cutting into small, bite-sized squares.
Serving and Storage Tips
These Chocolate Caramel Squares are best served chilled, allowing the flavors to meld together perfectly. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They make for a wonderful treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee or as a delightful dessert at any gathering.
Tips for Success
- Variation: Experiment with different types of nuts or add a sprinkle of sea salt over the caramel layer for a sweet-salty contrast.
- Handling Caramel: Be cautious when melting the caramels to avoid burning. Stirring constantly over low to medium heat ensures a smooth consistency.
- Cutting the Bars: To achieve neat squares, use a sharp knife and clean it between cuts to prevent sticking.
Final Thoughts
With its layers of chocolate, caramel, and buttery cake mix, these Chocolate Caramel Squares are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a sweet indulgence, this recipe delivers on taste and ease of preparation. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful treat from Love with Recipes!
Remember, cooking is love made visible, and these bars are a perfect way to share that love with family and friends. Happy baking!
