Here’s a delicious recipe for Caramel Chocolate Crunch Bars! These bars are a delightful combination of crunchy cereal, rich caramel, and smooth chocolate, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.
Caramel Chocolate Crunch Bars Recipe
Ingredients
For the Base:
- 4 cups crispy rice cereal (or any crunchy cereal of your choice)
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Topping:
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or milk chocolate chips)
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Optional: Sea salt for sprinkling on top
Instructions
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Prepare the Pan:
- Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later. Lightly grease the parchment paper with cooking spray or butter.
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Make the Crunch Base:
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the granulated sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Stir until the mixture comes to a gentle boil.
- Allow the mixture to boil for about 1 minute without stirring. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the crispy rice cereal and mini marshmallows. Pour the hot syrup mixture over the cereal and marshmallows, stirring quickly to coat everything evenly.
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Press into the Pan:
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Using a spatula or your hands (lightly greased), press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the pan.
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Add the Chocolate Layer:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth. Pour the melted chocolate over the pressed cereal mixture and spread it evenly.
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Drizzle with Caramel:
- Drizzle the caramel sauce over the melted chocolate layer. Use a knife or toothpick to swirl the caramel into the chocolate for a marbled effect. If desired, sprinkle a little sea salt on top for added flavor.
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Chill:
- Place the pan in the refrigerator for about 1-2 hours, or until the chocolate and caramel are set.
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Cut and Serve:
- Once set, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Cut into squares or rectangles. Serve and enjoy!
Tips:
- Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you live in a warm climate, you may want to store them in the refrigerator to keep the chocolate from melting.
- Customization: Feel free to add nuts, dried fruit, or other mix-ins to the cereal mixture for added texture and flavor.
- Homemade Caramel Sauce: If you prefer homemade caramel, you can make it by melting sugar until it turns golden brown and then adding cream and butter.
Enjoy your Caramel Chocolate Crunch Bars! They’re a delightful treat that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth!