Description
Caramel Crush Bars are a decadent dessert featuring a buttery, tender crust layered with rich caramel sauce and melted chocolate chips. These bars combine a perfect balance of sweet caramel and chocolate with a soft, golden base, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Base and Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Filling and Topping
- 1 cup caramel sauce
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and brown sugar until smooth and fluffy; this usually takes about 3-5 minutes and helps create a tender crumb.
- Add Vanilla Extract: Beat in the vanilla extract to combine the flavors thoroughly.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to ensure even distribution of the leavening and seasoning.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture into the butter and sugar mixture, stirring gently until just combined to avoid overmixing and toughening the dough.
- Form Base Layer: Spread half of the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, forming a solid base layer for the bars.
- Add Caramel and Chocolate: Pour the caramel sauce evenly over the dough layer, then sprinkle the chocolate chips across the top for a rich, melty filling.
- Add Top Crumble Layer: Crumble the remaining half of the dough evenly over the caramel and chocolate chip layer to create a textured, crunchy topping.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the bars are golden brown, with firm edges and a soft center.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into 12 squares to ensure clean cuts and set texture.
Notes
- For an extra gooey caramel layer, warm the caramel sauce slightly before pouring it onto the dough.
- Use quality chocolate chips for best flavor and melting consistency.
- Make sure the butter is softened at room temperature for easier creaming with the sugar.
- These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
- Optionally, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top before baking to enhance the caramel flavor.
