If you are craving something truly irresistible and loaded with textures and flavors that dance in perfect harmony, look no further than the Butterfinger Caramel Bars with Layers of Sweet Crunch and Chocolate Recipe. This dessert offers a luscious combination of buttery crust, creamy peanut butter filling, gooey caramel, crunchy Butterfinger candy, and rich chocolate all layered into one delightful bar. It’s the kind of treat that brings joy with every bite and always leaves you wanting just one more piece.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of crunchy, creamy, and chewy textures alongside layers of sweet, salty, and chocolatey goodness. You won’t need anything fancy—just simple ingredients that work together like old friends.
- 1 cup unsalted butter (melted): Provides a rich, buttery base that helps bring the crust together with a perfect golden texture.
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs: Adds a crisp, slightly sweet foundation to hold the layers.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens and balances the crust’s flavor without overpowering.
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter: Offers a smooth, nutty richness that pairs wonderfully with caramel and chocolate.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Gives the peanut butter layer a sweet, velvety finish and helps with structure.
- 1 (11 oz) bag caramel bits or wrapped soft caramels (about 40): Melt down to create the luscious, gooey caramel layer that makes this bar unforgettable.
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream: Used to achieve that perfectly silky caramel texture when melted.
- 1 1/2 cups chopped Butterfinger candy bars (about 4 regular bars): This is the signature crunch and flavor, lending a crispy, peanut-buttery crunch.
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melts into a decadent chocolate topping that seals all those layers of sweetness beautifully.
How to Make Butterfinger Caramel Bars with Layers of Sweet Crunch and Chocolate Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper to make removal easier. In a medium bowl, mix together the melted butter, graham cracker crumbs, and granulated sugar until everything is evenly combined. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of your pan. Baking it for 10 minutes creates a sturdy, golden crust that’s both buttery and sweet, the perfect base for all the rich layers to come.
Step 2: Make the Peanut Butter Layer
While the crust cools just enough, take a separate bowl and stir together smooth peanut butter with the powdered sugar until you have a creamy, dreamy spread that’s thick yet easy to smooth out. Gently spread this luscious layer over your cooled crust. This soft peanut butter layer adds a nutty richness and balances the sweetness of the caramel beautifully.
Step 3: Melt and Pour the Caramel
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt your caramel bits along with the heavy cream in short 30-second bursts, stirring between each until silky smooth. Pour this molten caramel evenly over the peanut butter layer, then gently spread it to every corner. The caramel layer brings that melt-in-your-mouth sweetness and chewiness that makes these bars unmistakably delicious.
Step 4: Add Butterfinger Crunch
Sprinkle the chopped Butterfinger candy pieces generously over the warm caramel. This is where the magic happens—the familiar crispy, peanut-buttery Butterfinger bites add an unforgettable crunch and flavor contrast. Don’t be shy here; more Butterfinger means more delight!
Step 5: Top with Melted Chocolate
Finally, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips either in the microwave or using a double boiler until smooth. Spread the chocolate generously over the chopped Butterfinger layer, letting it coat every bit. This smooth chocolate topping seals the bars, bringing all the layers together with a satisfying richness you’ll crave forever. Chill this masterpiece in the fridge for at least 2 hours until firm before slicing into squares.
How to Serve Butterfinger Caramel Bars with Layers of Sweet Crunch and Chocolate Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra festive touch, dust the bars lightly with powdered sugar or drizzle with a little melted white chocolate for contrast. Crushed Butterfinger pieces on top after chocolate sets add a fun, decorative crunch. Even a sprinkle of flaky sea salt makes the sweetness pop!
Side Dishes
These bars are a standout dessert, but pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for an indulgent combo. Fresh berries can also add a refreshing note that balances the rich flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut your bars into bite-sized squares for a party platter or layer them in a clear dessert dish to showcase the stunning layers visually. Wrap individual bars in parchment paper tied with a ribbon for sweet edible gifts—everyone will be amazed by your thoughtful presentation!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The beauty of the Butterfinger Caramel Bars with Layers of Sweet Crunch and Chocolate Recipe is how well they keep. Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, keeping that texture and flavor on point. Just be sure to cover tightly to avoid any fridge odors sneaking in.
Freezing
If you want to make these bars well in advance, they freeze beautifully. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight for best results.
Reheating
These bars are best enjoyed chilled, but if you prefer a softer texture, briefly warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat or the chocolate may melt unevenly. This quick warmth enhances the gooey caramel and peanut butter layers for a comforting bite.
FAQs
Can I substitute almond butter for peanut butter?
Absolutely! Almond butter brings a lovely slight twist while keeping the creamy texture and nutty flavor intact. It’s a great alternative if you want to change things up or avoid peanuts.
What can I use if I can’t find caramel bits?
No worries! Wrapped soft caramels work just as well—just unwrap and melt them with the heavy cream to get the same luscious caramel layer that makes these bars incredible.
Do I have to bake the crust?
Baking the crust helps set a firm base and enhances the buttery flavor but if you’re short on time, pressing it firmly and chilling can work as well. Just keep in mind that the texture might be slightly different and less crisp.
How can I cut the bars neatly without making a mess?
Running a sharp knife under hot water, drying it thoroughly, and then slicing each bar creates smooth edges and prevents sticky residue from ruining the perfect squares.
Are these bars suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat products. Just double-check your caramel bits and chocolate chips if you want to ensure no gelatin or animal-derived additives are included.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the Butterfinger Caramel Bars with Layers of Sweet Crunch and Chocolate Recipe that makes them an absolute must-try for anyone who loves bold, layered desserts. Whether for a family gathering or a cozy night in, these bars will bring a smile to your face and a craving that calls you back time and again. So go ahead, dive into this sweet symphony and treat yourself—you deserve every bite!
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Butterfinger Caramel Bars with Layers of Sweet Crunch and Chocolate Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Butterfinger Caramel Bars feature a rich and buttery graham cracker crust layered with creamy peanut butter, smooth caramel, crunchy chopped Butterfinger candy, and a luscious chocolate topping. Perfectly balanced between sweet, crunchy, and chocolatey, these bars are an irresistible American dessert treat that requires minimal baking and is chilled to set.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
Peanut Butter Layer
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Carmel Layer
- 1 (11 oz) bag caramel bits or wrapped soft caramels (about 40)
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Topping
- 1 1/2 cups chopped Butterfinger candy bars (about 4 regular bars)
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, combine melted butter, graham cracker crumbs, and granulated sugar. Press mixture evenly into the bottom of the pan to form the crust.
- Bake Crust: Bake the crust for 10 minutes until set and golden. Remove from oven and let cool slightly to prepare for the layering.
- Prepare Peanut Butter Layer: In another bowl, stir together creamy peanut butter and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Gently spread this mixture over the cooled graham crust, ensuring an even layer.
- Melt Caramel: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt caramel bits together with heavy cream in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth and pourable.
- Assemble Caramel Layer: Pour the melted caramel evenly over the peanut butter layer. Use a spatula to gently spread it for complete coverage.
- Add Butterfinger Candy: Sprinkle the chopped Butterfinger candy bars evenly over the warm caramel layer to add crunchy texture.
- Melt Chocolate: Melt semi-sweet chocolate chips in the microwave or using a double boiler until smooth. Spread the melted chocolate evenly over the Butterfinger layer to seal the bars.
- Chill Bars: Refrigerate the assembled bars for at least 2 hours to allow them to set firmly before cutting into 24 squares.
Notes
- For easier slicing, dip a sharp knife in hot water and dry it before cutting between slices.
- You can substitute almond butter for a slight variation in flavor.
- Store bars in the refrigerator or freezer to maintain freshness and prolong shelf life.
