Step-by-step instructions
Ready to bring your Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars to life? Follow these simple steps for a dessert that’s sure to impress:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until you achieve a texture similar to wet sand.
- Press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. This will form your sturdy crust.
- Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, just until it sets and turns lightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly.
- Spread the caramel sauce evenly over the cooled crust, giving it a sweet base to work with.
- Sprinkle the crushed Butterfinger candy bars and chopped pecans evenly over the caramel layer, ensuring every bite has some crunch.
- Drizzle the sweetened condensed milk over the top for an added creaminess.
- Sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the bars—these will melt beautifully and add richness to every bite.
- Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the chocolate chips are melted and the entire pan is bubbly.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them into squares, giving all those layers time to set.
Best ways to enjoy it
Once your bars are cooled and cut, the serving possibilities are endless. Enjoy them as-is for a decadent dessert after dinner, or pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for that perfect hot-and-cold contrast. They also make a fantastic midday snack or sweet treat in lunchboxes. Consider garnishing with a sprinkle of sea salt for an extra flavor kick!
Keeping leftovers fresh
To keep your Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want longer storage, you can freeze the bars. Just make sure to wrap them securely in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months!
Helpful cooking tips
For the best results, here are some helpful tips:
- Crush the Butterfingers into large chunks for an excellent texture contrast throughout the bars.
- Make sure the butter is melted but not bubbling for optimal mixing with the graham cracker crumbs.
- Let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting, as this helps them hold their shape better.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Here are some fun variations you can try:
- Substitute the Butterfinger with crushed Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups or Snickers for a different flavor profile.
- Use chocolate graham crackers instead of regular ones for an extra chocolate kick.
- Drizzle some caramel sauce or melted chocolate over the top before serving for added flair and sweetness.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to make Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars?
From start to finish, you’ll need about 40-50 minutes, including baking time and cooling.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars keep well, making them a fantastic option to prepare a day in advance. Store them covered at room temperature.
Are there any substitutions I can make in this recipe?
You can replace the pecans with any nuts you prefer or even omit them altogether for a nut-free version. Also, adjust the type of chocolate chips based on your preference—dark chocolate works wonderfully too!
Enjoy making these Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars, and watch as they quickly become a favorite in your dessert repertoire!
