Let me take a moment to express my gratitude for your endless support and love for my recipes! I’m truly thankful to have you here, and I couldn’t be more excited to share today’s delight: Caramel Crunch Bars! These bars are the perfect combo of sweet, crunchy, and creamy—a chocolatey Rice Krispies base, followed by a thick, chewy caramel layer, all topped with a rich, buttery chocolate finish. You’re going to want to make these ASAP because they’re just that irresistible. And did I mention? No baking required!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crunch Layer:
- 18 oz (525g) chocolate, coarsely chopped
- 2 cups (50g) Rice Krispies
For the Caramel Layer:
- 10 oz (280g) chewy caramels or toffees
- 1/8 cup (30ml) evaporated milk
For the Chocolate Layer:
- 8 oz (235g) chocolate, coarsely chopped
- 1/3 cup (75g) unsalted butter
How to Make Caramel Crunch Bars
Step 1: Make the Crunch Layer
- Start by lining an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper. Trust me, this makes removing the bars later so much easier!
- In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring after each one. Continue until smooth.
- Fold in the Rice Krispies, ensuring every piece is coated in the melted chocolate.
- Spread this crunchy mixture evenly into your prepared pan and freeze for about 10-20 minutes until it’s completely set. The smell already? Incredible!
Step 2: Prepare the Caramel Layer
- In another microwave-safe bowl, combine your caramels (or toffees) and evaporated milk. Again, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring after each burst, until the mixture is completely melted and smooth.
- Let it cool slightly—around 10 minutes—before pouring it evenly over the chocolate crunch layer.
- Pop the pan back into the freezer while you prep the chocolate layer.
Step 3: Top It with the Chocolate Layer
- Time for that final layer of bliss! Melt the chocolate and unsalted butter in the microwave, just like before—30-second intervals, stirring each time, until silky smooth.
- Pour this luscious mixture over the caramel layer and spread it out evenly.
- Freeze for about 30 minutes, or until everything is set to perfection.
Once the bars have set, cut them into 16 squares and get ready for the magic. I promise these bars will disappear in no time!
Details and nutritional information
Details
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Additional Time: 1 hour (freeze time)
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 343 kcal
- Sugar: 38g
- Sodium: 67mg
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 12mg
Helpful Tips for the Perfect Bars
- Cutting Tip: Run your knife under hot water before slicing to get those clean edges, even through the caramel. It makes cutting so much easier!
- Setting Time: If you’re in a hurry, you can chill the bars in the fridge instead of the freezer, but give it a little extra time to firm up.
Substitutions and Variations
- Rice Krispies Swap: If you don’t have Rice Krispies on hand, you can use any other puffed cereal or even crushed cornflakes for a twist.
- Caramel Alternatives: Try soft toffee candies or even dulce de leche if you’re feeling adventurous. Both will add a rich, creamy texture.
- Dark Chocolate: Prefer something less sweet? Substitute half the chocolate with dark chocolate for a deeper, more intense flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars store incredibly well. You can make them up to three weeks in advance and keep them in an airtight container in the fridge.
What can I use instead of evaporated milk?
If you don’t have evaporated milk, heavy cream is a great substitute that will give you the same creamy consistency.
Do these bars need to be refrigerated?
Yes, it’s best to store them in the fridge to keep the caramel layer firm and the bars easy to slice. But don’t worry, they taste amazing straight out of the fridge!
Storage Instructions
- Fridge: Store your Caramel Crunch Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. They hold up great and taste even better after chilling for a while.
- Freezer: These bars also freeze wonderfully! Place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to indulge.
These Caramel Crunch Bars are seriously a game-changer. They’re quick, easy, and beyond delicious—perfect for a party or just a sweet treat at home. The mix of textures, from the crunchy base to the creamy caramel and smooth chocolate top, will keep you coming back for more.
I can’t wait for you to try these—let me know how yours turn out!
Print
Caramel Crunch Bars Recipe: A No-Bake Treat You Can’t Resist
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
Description
Caramel Crunch Bars are an irresistible no-bake treat with layers of crunchy chocolate Rice Krispies, chewy caramel, and a smooth, creamy chocolate top. Perfect for parties, after-dinner desserts, or just because! These easy bars are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults. Whip them up in no time and savor the blend of textures and flavors. They’ll be gone before you know it!
Ingredients
For the Crunch Layer:
- 18 oz (525g) chocolate, coarsely chopped
- 2 cups (50g) Rice Krispies
For the Caramel Layer:
- 10 oz (280g) chewy caramels or toffees
- 1/8 cup (30ml) evaporated milk
For the Chocolate Layer:
- 8 oz (235g) chocolate, coarsely chopped
- 1/3 cup (75g) unsalted butter
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Crunch Layer
- Line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring after each one, until smooth.
- Stir in the Rice Krispies until fully coated. Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared pan and freeze for 10-20 minutes, until set.
Step 2: Prepare the Caramel Layer
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the caramels and evaporated milk in 30-second intervals, stirring after each one, until smooth.
- Let cool for about 10 minutes before spreading evenly over the crunch layer. Freeze again while preparing the chocolate layer.
Step 3: Top with the Chocolate Layer
- Melt the chocolate and unsalted butter in a microwave-safe bowl, using the same 30-second interval method.
- Spread this melted chocolate mixture over the caramel layer and freeze for about 30 minutes, until fully set.
- Cut into 16 bars, serve, and enjoy!
Notes
- For easier cutting, run your knife under hot water before slicing the bars.
- Store the bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 weeks.
- These bars freeze well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour (freeze time)
- Category: Dessert