Description
Picture a kitchen filled with the delightful scent of Chewy Nutty Squirrel Bars. Where stories are shared and laughter echoes, in the air. These bars are made with care combining cocoa, a variety of nuts, and a smooth ribbon of caramel that blends perfectly together. Each bite offers a mix of textures and flavors. That embraces your taste buds like a hug. It’s not a dessert. It’s a taste of home a treat that brings people together and lights up smiles meant to be enjoyed with those dear, to your heart.
Ingredients
2 sticks unsalted butter, softened and divided
1 c powdered sugar
1 ¼ c flour
⅓ c cocoa powder
1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
2 tsp vanilla
1 c caramel baking chips
½ c chopped almonds, pecans, or walnuts
4 tbsp heavy cream
1 tsp salt
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by lining it with parchment paper. Remember to set 2 tablespoons of butter for later.
For the base beat 1 and 3/4 sticks of butter with sugar until creamy. Then blend in flour and cocoa powder until mixed. Press this mixture into the baking dish. Bake for about 15 minutes.
While the base is baking, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan, along with sweetened condensed milk over low heat. Stir until it thickens slightly then remove from heat and stir in some vanilla extract. Pour this mixture over the base. Bake for an additional 8 to 10 minutes until it sets.
Toast the nuts lightly in a pan until they become fragrant. Allow them to cool before chopping them.
For the caramel layer melt caramel chips with cream in intervals in the microwave while stirring every 30 seconds for approximately 2 minutes or until smooth. Mix in the toasted nuts and a pinch of salt.
To assemble, spread the caramel nut mixture evenly over the layer up, to the edges. Allow it to cool down entirely in the pan.
For best outcomes refrigerate in the fridge before slicing into bars. Indulge, in your Chewy Nutty Squirrel Bars!
Notes
To make these Chewy Nutty Squirrel Bars gluten-free yet just, as delectable simply switch out the all-purpose flour with your gluten-free flour blend. Opt for a blend that allows for a 1:1 substitution to ensure the bars retain their chewy texture and flavorful essence. Also be sure to confirm that your cocoa powder, caramel chips and other packaged ingredients are certified gluten-free to prevent any chance of cross-contamination. Delight, in the taste now enjoyed by all!
