Caramel Bars – Experience the indulgent flavors of our Classic Homemade Caramel Bars, a treat suitable, for any occasion. These bars bring together the gooeyness of caramel with the satisfying crunch of walnuts and chocolate chips making them a sure hit with everyone. With wholesome ingredients this recipe not only tastes amazing but is also a joy to create.
I can still vividly recall the first time I whipped up these Caramel Bars. It was a rainy afternoon. I wanted to bake something truly special for my loved ones. As the sweet aroma filled our home my spouse and child eagerly anticipated that bite. Their eyes instantly lit up upon tasting it and since then these caramel bars have become a favorite in our household constantly requested during family gatherings.
What makes this Caramel Bars truly special?
What sets our Classic Homemade Caramel Bars apart is the homemade caramel sauce that delivers a richer and more authentic flavor compared to store-bought alternatives. Each mouthwatering bite takes you on a journey through contrasting textures – from the chewy combination of all-purpose flour. Rolled oats, to the delightful crunchiness of walnuts – all perfectly complemented by the luxuriousness of semisweet chocolate chips.
This recipe is incredibly versatile giving you the freedom to customize it according to your preferences. Whether you prefer milk chocolate chips or want to try out types of nuts these caramel bars provide the opportunity for you to unleash your culinary creativity.
What You Need To Make This Caramel Bars Recipe?
Caramel Sauce: The secret, behind this recipe lies in a caramel sauce made from caramels and heavy cream. This blend results in a velvety sauce that adds taste to the bars.
Bars Base: As for the base of these bars it’s a mixture of all-purpose flour. Rolled oats, giving them a chewy texture. The addition of sugar carries a whiff of molasses-like sweetness enriching the overall flavor.
Butter: In order to achieve a moist and rich base that perfectly complements the caramel and toppings it’s important to melt the butter and mix it with the oats and flour.
Chocolate Chips and Walnuts: To add some excitement to each bite we include semisweet chocolate chips for their contrast along with chopped walnuts, for their satisfying crunch. These ingredients work harmoniously together to bring depth and variety to every mouthful.
Steps To Make Caramel Bars:
Step 1: Let’s start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your bars bake evenly.
Step 2: Take a saucepan and gently melt the caramels with the heavy cream, over low heat. Stir occasionally until you have a velvety sauce. Set this aside for later – it’s the star of the show!
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Step 3: In a bowl combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, baking soda and salt. Add the butter and mix until everything is well combined. Press half of this mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish – this will create a crust.
Step 4: Bake the crust for 8 minutes. It will form a base for your bars.
Step 5: Next remove the crust from the oven. Sprinkle it with chocolate chips and walnuts. Drizzle your homemade caramel sauce over it with love. Crumble the remaining oat mixture on top – this adds a texture.
Step 6: Bake for 12 minutes until you see a lightly toasted top indicating that it’s ready!
Step 7: While still warm cut the bars into squares. This is when they are, at their best – warm, gooey and absolutely irresistible.
Tip:
To achieve caramel bars ensure they are completely cooled after baking and then refrigerate them for approximately an hour before cutting. This additional step firms, up the caramel. Facilitates precise squares. Use a sharpened knife. For even smoother cuts dip the knife in hot water and wipe it dry between each cut. This method guarantees that every caramel bar not only tastes amazing but also looks exceptionally appealing making it an ideal choice for gatherings or, as a delightful indulgence.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make these bars in advance?
Of course! You can definitely prepare these bars ahead of time. Just make sure to store them in a container at room temperature.
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
Certainly! While homemade caramel sauce adds a touch you can absolutely use store-bought caramel sauce as an alternative especially if you’re running short on time.
How do I store leftover caramel bars?
To keep any leftover caramel bars fresh it’s best to store them in an airtight container at room temperature for, up to 3 days. If you need to extend their shelf life refrigeration is an option. However remember to allow them to come back, to room temperature before serving for the flavor and texture.
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Caramel Bars
Ingredients
Caramel Sauce:
- 32 individually wrapped caramels unwrapped
- 5 tbsp heavy cream
Bars:
- 1 c all-purpose flour
- 1 c rolled oats
- ¾ c brown sugar
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¾ c butter melted
- ½ c semisweet chocolate chips
- ½ c chopped walnuts
Instructions
- Set your temperature to 350°F (175°C).
- In a saucepan, over low heat gently melt the caramels with cream stirring occasionally until it becomes smooth. Set it aside.
- In a bowl mix together flour, oats, brown sugar, baking soda and salt. Stir in melted butter until well combined.
- Press half of the oat mixture into a baking dish measuring 9x13 inches. Bake for 8 minutes in the oven.
- Take out the dish from the oven. Sprinkle chocolate chips. Walnuts evenly over the crust. Drizzle caramel sauce on top. Crumble the remaining oat mixture as a layer.
- Place it in the oven and bake for 12 minutes or until you notice a light golden toast, on top.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them into squares. Enjoy!
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
