Description
These Decadent Caramel Chocolate Crunch Bars combine a crispy graham cracker base with layers of melted semi-sweet chocolate, gooey caramel sauce, and optional mini marshmallows and chopped nuts for an irresistible treat. Baked briefly to set and lightly toast the marshmallows, these bars deliver a perfect balance of crunchy, chewy, and sweet textures, making them an ideal dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Base
- 1 cup crushed graham crackers
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Chocolate Layer
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Caramel Layer
- 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 and ease removal.
- Make the Base: In a medium bowl, combine crushed graham crackers with melted unsalted butter. Mix thoroughly to coat all crumbs, then press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish creating an even crust.
- Chocolate Layer: Place the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl and melt them in 30-second intervals, stirring after each until fully smooth. Pour the melted chocolate over the graham cracker crust and smooth out evenly with a spatula.
- Caramel and Toppings: Drizzle the caramel sauce over the melted chocolate layer, creating swirls for visual appeal. If desired, sprinkle mini marshmallows evenly on top, followed by chopped nuts for added crunch and flavor.
- Baking: Bake the assembled bars in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. This allows the layers to set, and the marshmallows to become lightly toasted and gooey.
- Cooling and Serving: Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the dish. Once cooled, lift them out using the parchment paper, cut into squares, and serve.
Notes
- Use parchment paper for easy removal and clean-up.
- Optional toppings like marshmallows and nuts add texture but can be omitted to suit preferences.
- Allow bars to cool completely for cleaner slicing and better set layers.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For a homemade caramel sauce, simmer 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 chocolate bars, graham cracker dessert, chocolate caramel crunch, easy baked bars, marshmallow bars, nutty caramel bars
