Decadent Caramel Chocolate Crunch Bars Recipe

Introduction

These Decadent Caramel Chocolate Crunch Bars combine crunchy graham cracker base, rich melted chocolate, and gooey caramel for a delightful treat. Optional marshmallows and nuts add extra texture and flavor, making them perfect for any dessert lover.

Ingredients

• 1 cup crushed graham crackers (for the base)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted (for binding)
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (for melting over the base)
• 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup mini marshmallows (optional, for a chewy effect)
• ½ cup chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts, optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers and melted butter. Mix until all crumbs are coated, then press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
3. Step 3: Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl using 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth.
4. Step 4: Pour the melted chocolate evenly over the graham cracker base and smooth it out with a spatula.
5. Step 5: Drizzle the caramel sauce over the melted chocolate, creating swirls if desired.
6. Step 6: If using, sprinkle the mini marshmallows over the caramel layer.
7. Step 7: If using, add the chopped nuts on top of the marshmallows and caramel.
8. Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, until the layers are set and marshmallows are lightly toasted.
9. Step 9: Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely before lifting the bars out of the dish using the parchment paper.
10. Step 10: Cut into squares and enjoy your decadent caramel chocolate crunch bars!

Tips & Variations

• Use homemade caramel sauce for a richer, fresher flavor.
• Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark or milk chocolate to adjust sweetness.
• Add a pinch of sea salt on top before baking to enhance the flavors.
• For extra crunch, try toasted coconut flakes instead of or alongside nuts.
• If you prefer a chewy texture, do not skip the mini marshmallows.

Storage

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. To keep marshmallows soft, room temperature storage is best. Reheat briefly in the microwave if you prefer a warm, gooey treat.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cookie crumb instead of graham crackers?

Yes, crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers make great substitutes for the graham cracker base and will still provide a nice crunch.

How do I make homemade caramel sauce?

Homemade caramel sauce can be made by cooking sugar until amber, then stirring in butter and heavy cream until smooth. Be sure to follow a trusted recipe to get the perfect consistency.

Decadent Caramel Chocolate Crunch Bars Recipe

---

★★★★★

4.9 from 594 reviews

• Author: Zoe
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: 16 bars 1x

Pin Recipe

Print Recipe

Description

Decadent Caramel Chocolate Crunch Bars combine a crispy graham cracker base with a smooth chocolate layer, rich caramel swirls, and optional chewy mini marshmallows and crunchy nuts to create a delightful dessert perfect for any occasion.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Base

• 1 cup crushed graham crackers
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

Toppings

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup mini marshmallows (optional)
• ½ cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts, optional)

---

Instructions

1. Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Base: In a medium bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers with the melted butter. Stir until all crumbs are coated with butter, then press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to create an even base layer.
3. Melt the Chocolate: Place the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
4. Layer the Chocolate: Pour the melted chocolate evenly over the graham cracker base, smoothing the surface with a spatula for an even coverage.
5. Add Caramel and Toppings: Drizzle the caramel sauce over the melted chocolate in a swirling pattern. If using, sprinkle the mini marshmallows evenly on top, followed by the chopped nuts to add texture and flavor.
6. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes until the toppings are set and the marshmallows are lightly toasted and golden.
7. Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely in the dish. Once cooled, use the parchment paper to lift the bars out of the pan. Cut into squares and serve.

Notes

• Ensure the bars cool completely before cutting to prevent the chocolate and caramel from melting or losing shape.
• You can substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark or milk chocolate according to preference.
• For a nut-free version, simply omit the chopped nuts.
• Homemade caramel sauce can be used for a more personalized flavor.
• These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: caramel chocolate bars, graham cracker dessert, easy chocolate caramel bars, crunchy chocolate bars, no-bake base dessert