Caramel Chocolate Crunch Bars Recipe

Introduction

Caramel Chocolate Crunch Bars are a deliciously sweet and chewy treat that combines rich caramel, semi-sweet chocolate, and a crunchy oat base. Perfect for satisfying your dessert cravings, these bars are easy to make and great for sharing.

Ingredients

• 1 14 oz package Kraft® caramels (approximately 48 pieces)
• 1/3 cup water
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups quick-cooking oats
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 cup margarine (melted)
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 6 oz package semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a saucepan over low heat, combine the unwrapped caramels and water. Stir frequently until the caramels have completely melted and the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Step 2: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
3. Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, quick-cooking oats, brown sugar, melted margarine, baking soda, and salt. Mix until a uniform, crumbly texture is achieved. Reserve 1 cup of this mixture for the topping.
4. Step 4: Press the remaining oat mixture evenly into the bottom of an ungreased 9×13-inch baking pan to form a firm base.
5. Step 5: Bake the base for 10 minutes to set slightly.
6. Step 6: Remove the pan from the oven. Evenly sprinkle the chocolate chips over the hot base. Drizzle the prepared caramel mixture over the top, spreading it gently if needed.
7. Step 7: Sprinkle the reserved oat mixture over the caramel layer. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden.
8. Step 8: Allow the bars to cool slightly. Cut into 2×1-inch portions while still slightly warm, or wait until completely cool for cleaner cuts.

Tips & Variations

• For a richer flavor, substitute butter for margarine.
• Use dark chocolate chips for a more intense chocolate taste.
• Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the oat mixture for extra crunch.
• Press the base firmly to ensure it holds together well after baking.

Storage

Store caramel chocolate crunch bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat briefly in the microwave to soften before serving, if desired.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use homemade caramel instead of store-bought caramels?

Yes, homemade caramel can be used, but ensure it is smooth and pourable to evenly drizzle over the bars.

How can I prevent the bars from sticking to the pan?

Pressing the oat mixture firmly into the pan helps create a stable base. If desired, line the baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.

Caramel Chocolate Crunch Bars Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 94 reviews

Delicious Caramel Chocolate Crunch Bars featuring a buttery oat base topped with melted caramel and semi-sweet chocolate chips, finished with a crunchy oat crumble. These bars combine chewy, gooey, and crunchy textures in every bite, perfect for a sweet treat or dessert.

• Author: Ruby
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 24 bars (2×1-inch portions) 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Caramel Mixture

• 1 14 oz package Kraft® caramels (approximately 48 pieces), unwrapped
• 1/3 cup water

Oat Base and Topping

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups quick-cooking oats
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 cup margarine, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Toppings

• 1 6 oz package semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Prepare the Caramel Mixture: In a saucepan over low heat, combine the unwrapped caramels and water. Stir frequently until completely melted and smooth. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking.
3. Create the Oat Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, quick-cooking oats, brown sugar, melted margarine, baking soda, and salt. Mix until you have a uniform, crumbly texture. Reserve 1 cup of this mixture for the topping.
4. Assemble the Base: Press the remaining oat mixture evenly into the bottom of an ungreased 9×13-inch baking pan to create a firm and even base layer.
5. First Bake: Bake the base layer in the preheated oven for 10 minutes to set it slightly and prepare for the toppings.
6. Add the Chocolate and Caramel Layers: Remove the baking pan from the oven. Evenly sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips over the hot base, then drizzle the prepared caramel mixture over the chocolate layer. Spread gently if needed for coverage.
7. Apply the Topping and Final Bake: Sprinkle the reserved oat mixture evenly over the caramel layer. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the topping is lightly golden.
8. Cool and Slice: Allow the bars to cool slightly. Cut into 2×1-inch portions while still slightly warm for easier slicing, or wait until completely cool for cleaner cuts.

Notes

• For cleaner cuts, allow bars to cool completely before slicing.
• If desired, substitute margarine with butter for richer flavor.
• Use quick-cooking oats for the best texture balance; old-fashioned oats may change the texture.
• Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Keywords: Caramel chocolate bars, oat bars, caramel chocolate crunch, easy dessert bars, baked bars, chocolate oat bars