How to Make Caramel Fudge Crunch Bars
Dive into a world of rich, gooey, and crunchy indulgence with “Indulgent Layers: Caramel Fudge Crunch Bars.” These bars combine the best of caramel, chocolate fudge, and a crunchy base to create a dessert that’s both irresistible and satisfying. Perfect for special occasions, parties, or a decadent treat, these bars are sure to impress and delight anyone who takes a bite.
Why You’ll Love Caramel Fudge Crunch Bars:
- Multi-Textured Delight: Combines crunchy, gooey, and smooth layers for a perfect bite.
- Rich and Decadent: Filled with caramel and chocolate fudge for an indulgent treat.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps and ingredients for a show-stopping dessert.
- Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for parties, gatherings, or as a gift.
Ingredients Notes For Caramel Fudge Crunch Bars:
- Crunch Base:
- Butter: Unsalted, melted to bind the base.
- Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and moisture.
- Flour: All-purpose flour to form the base.
- Crisped Rice Cereal: Provides the crunch.
- Caramel Layer:
- Caramel Candies: Soft caramels for a smooth layer.
- Heavy Cream: Adds creaminess to the caramel.
- Fudge Layer:
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: For a rich, creamy fudge.
- Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet or dark chocolate for the fudge.
- Butter: Adds richness and smoothness to the fudge.
Recipe Steps:
- Prepare the Crunch Base:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of melted butter, 1 cup of brown sugar, and 2 cups of flour. Mix until well combined. Stir in 2 cups of crisped rice cereal until evenly distributed.
- Press the mixture firmly into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden. Let cool.
- Make the Caramel Layer:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 bag (14 ounces) of caramel candies and 1/4 cup of heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the caramels are melted and smooth.
- Pour the caramel mixture over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Let it set slightly at room temperature or refrigerate for faster setting.
- Prepare the Fudge Layer:
- In a medium saucepan, combine 1 can (14 ounces) of sweetened condensed milk, 2 cups of chocolate chips, and 1/4 cup of butter. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly until the chocolate and butter are melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Pour the fudge mixture over the caramel layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Set the Bars:
- Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours, or until fully set. Once set, use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out of the pan and transfer to a cutting board.
- Cut and Serve:
- Cut the bars into squares or rectangles with a sharp knife. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Storage Options:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Freeze: Freeze the bars in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
How to Make Caramel Fudge Crunch Bars
Ingredients
For the Crunchy Base:
- 2 cups crushed cornflakes or graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
For the Caramel Layer:
- 1 cup caramel sauce store-bought or homemade
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt optional, for a salted caramel effect
For the Chocolate Fudge Layer:
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 can 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Toppings:
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts pecans, walnuts, or almonds
- Additional sea salt for sprinkling
Instructions
Prepare the Crunchy Base:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes or graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a lined and greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly.
Add the Caramel Layer:
- Pour the caramel sauce evenly over the cooled base. If using, sprinkle with sea salt.
- Place the dish in the refrigerator or freezer to set while you prepare the fudge layer.
Make the Chocolate Fudge Layer:
- In a saucepan over low heat, melt the chocolate chips with the sweetened condensed milk, stirring continuously until smooth and well combined.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour the fudge over the chilled caramel layer, smoothing out with a spatula.
Add Optional Toppings:
- Sprinkle chopped nuts over the fudge layer, if using. Lightly press them into the chocolate to ensure they stick.
- If desired, sprinkle a little more sea salt on top for an extra pop of flavor.
Chill and Set:
- Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours, or until fully set.
Cut and Serve:
- Once set, lift the bars out of the pan using the edges of the foil or parchment. Cut into squares or bars.
- Serve chilled for best texture and flavor.
