Peanut Butter-Caramel-Chocolate Bars Recipe π₯π«π°
Preparation Time: 2 hours
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 3 hours
Servings: 3 dozen, depending on size
Ingredients:
| For the Bars: | |
|---|---|
| 1 package dry cake mix | |
| 1/2 cup butter, softened | |
| 1 egg | |
| 20 miniature peanut butter cups, unwrapped |
| For the Filling: | |
|---|---|
| 2 tablespoons cornstarch | |
| 1 cup caramel ice cream topping | |
| 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter | |
| 1/2 cup salted peanuts, chopped |
| For the Frosting: | |
|---|---|
| 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips | |
| 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter | |
| 1/4 cup salted peanuts, chopped |
Instructions:
-
Make the Bars:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry cake mix, softened butter, and egg.
- Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is no longer crumbly, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in the unwrapped peanut butter cups until well combined.
-
-
Prepare the Crust:
- Press the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan, creating an even layer.
- Bake in a preheated 350Β°F (175Β°C) oven for 18-22 minutes, or until lightly browned.
-
Prepare the Filling:
- In a saucepan, combine the cornstarch, caramel ice cream topping, and creamy peanut butter.
- Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a boil, approximately 25 minutes.
- Cook and stir for an additional 1-2 minutes until thickened.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the chopped salted peanuts.
-
Layer the Filling:
- Spread the warm peanut butter-caramel mixture evenly over the baked crust.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 6-7 minutes, or until the filling is almost set.
-
Cooling and Frosting:
- Allow the bars to cool completely on a wire rack.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semisweet chocolate chips and creamy peanut butter together in short intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Spread the chocolate-peanut butter frosting evenly over the cooled bars.
- Sprinkle the top with the remaining chopped salted peanuts for a delightful crunch.
-
Refrigeration and Serving:
- Refrigerate the bars for at least 1 hour to set the layers and enhance the flavors.
- Once chilled, cut into bars of your desired size.
- Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for freshness.
- Before serving, bring the bars to room temperature for the best taste experience.
-
Enjoy!
- Whether enjoyed cold or at room temperature, these Peanut Butter-Caramel-Chocolate Bars are sure to delight with their decadent layers of flavor!
Recipe Notes:
- Customization: Feel free to add your favorite toppings such as additional chocolate drizzle, caramel swirls, or even a sprinkle of sea salt.
- Storage: These bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, if they last that long!
- Presentation: Serve these bars on a decorative platter for parties, gatherings, or as a special treat for yourself.
- Reheating: If desired, warm the bars slightly in the microwave for a gooey, melty experience.
These bars are a heavenly combination of peanut butter cup crust, luscious peanut butter-caramel filling, and indulgent chocolate frosting, guaranteed to make every bite an irresistible delight! Perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings or impressing guests with your baking prowess, these bars are a must-try for any dessert lover. π«π₯β¨
