Description
These Decadent Caramel Chocolate Crunch Bars combine a crispy graham cracker base with smooth melted chocolate, rich caramel swirls, and optional chewy marshmallows and crunchy nuts. Baked until perfectly set and lightly toasted, they make an irresistible dessert or snack with layers of texture and flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
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
- Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Make the Base: In a medium bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers with the melted butter. Mix thoroughly until the crumbs are fully coated. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to create an even, compact base.
- Chocolate Layer: Place the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Melt in 30-second increments, stirring well between each interval until smooth and fully melted. Pour the melted chocolate evenly over the graham cracker base and smooth it out using a spatula for an even layer.
- Caramel Layer: Gently drizzle the caramel sauce over the melted chocolate, creating swirls for a marbled effect. This adds rich, gooey sweetness to the bars.
- Add Toppings: If desired, sprinkle mini marshmallows evenly on top of the caramel. Then add the chopped nuts over the marshmallows to add texture and crunch.
- Baking: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Bake just until everything is set and the marshmallows are lightly toasted and golden.
- Cooling and Serving: Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the dish. Use the parchment paper to lift the bars out of the pan easily. Cut into squares to serve and enjoy the decadent layers of caramel, chocolate, and crunch.
Notes
- For a vegan version, substitute butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate chips and caramel sauce.
- The mini marshmallows and nuts are optional but add extra texture and flavor.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- To make homemade caramel sauce, melt sugar and butter with cream until golden and smooth.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: caramel bars, chocolate bars, graham cracker bars, dessert bars, crunchy dessert, chocolate caramel dessert
