Looking for a decadent treat to satisfy your sweet tooth? Our delightful caramel cracker bars are the perfect indulgence, combining the perfect balance of crunchy, sweet, and salty flavors. Quick to prepare and utterly luscious, these bars will become your go-to dessert in no time!
Back when I first stumbled upon the idea of caramel cracker bars, I was in college, experimenting with different snack recipes to surprise my roommates. Late one Saturday night, with a pantry stocked with graham crackers, sugars, and a hint of chocolate, the first batch emerged from the oven. The bars disappeared almost immediately, earning me the unofficial title of “dessert guru” within the dorm.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: These bars can be prepared in under 30 minutes, perfect for last-minute gatherings or a quick treat.
- Minimal Ingredients: You only need a handful of pantry staples to whip up these delicious bars.
- Versatile: Easily modify the recipe to suit dietary requirements or personal preferences.
- Perfect Balance: The combination of sweet caramel and salty crackers offers an irresistible taste sensation.
Ingredients Notes
To make these indulgent caramel cracker bars, you’ll need graham crackers, Brown Sugar, butter, and a layer of rich chocolate. Feel free to use dark or milk chocolate based on your taste preference, and try incorporating chopped nuts for an added crunch. If graham crackers aren’t available, any firm cracker will do, such as saltines or digestive biscuits.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange a single layer of graham crackers over the entire sheet, ensuring there are no gaps.
Step 2
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat and stir in the Brown Sugar. Let the mixture come to a boil, stirring continuously, until it thickens slightly, approximately 3-5 minutes.
Step 3
Pour the Caramel Sauce evenly over the layer of crackers. Use a spatula to spread it, ensuring every cracker is coated.
Step 4
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning; the caramel should bubble and appear golden.
Step 5
Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle the chocolate chips on top. As they melt, spread the chocolate evenly across the caramel layer. Let the bars cool completely before slicing and serving.
Storage Options
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. If you wish to freeze the bars, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Variations & Substitutions
Customize your bars with your favorite toppings. Add a sprinkle of sea salt for a savory twist or a dash of cayenne for a spicy kick. For dietary adaptations, use gluten-free crackers or dairy-free butter and chocolate for a vegan-friendly version.
Serving Suggestions
These caramel cracker bars are perfect for casual weeknight treats or fancy weekend gatherings. Serve them as a sweet conclusion to a dinner or package them beautifully as a thoughtful homemade gift for holidays and celebrations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of chocolate?
Yes, feel free to substitute with any chocolate you prefer! Dark chocolate adds a richer taste, while White Chocolate offers sweetness that complements the caramel nicely.
What if my caramel hardens too much?
If the caramel hardens more than desired, gently reheat it over low heat while stirring constantly to reach the right consistency. Adding a tablespoon of milk or cream can help soften it.
How do I avoid the caramel from burning?
Keep a close eye while the caramel is cooking and baking. Stir regularly while heating, and ensure the mixture doesn’t boil for too long, which might cause it to burn.
Caramel Cracker Bars
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 cups crushed graham crackers
- 1 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 cup brown sugar packed
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press the mixture into a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the brown sugar and butter until smooth. Pour over the graham cracker base.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and sprinkle with chocolate chips. Return to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes.
- Allow to cool before cutting into bars.