Caramel Chocolate Crunch Bars

Caramel Chocolate Crunch Bars are a delicious treat that combines the richness of caramel, the smoothness of chocolate, and the satisfying crunch of crispy rice or cereal. These bars are easy to make, indulgent, and perfect for parties, snack time, or just when you’re craving something sweet and decadent.

Here’s a recipe for Caramel Chocolate Crunch Bars:

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Caramel Chocolate Crunch Bars Recipe

Ingredients:

For the base:

• 2 cups rice cereal (like Rice Krispies or a similar brand)
• 1 cup salted peanuts (or any nuts of your choice, like cashews or almonds)
• 1 cup milk chocolate chips (or semi-sweet chocolate chips for a darker flavor)

For the caramel layer:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1/4 cup corn syrup (or golden syrup)
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp salt (optional, if you want a salted caramel flavor)

For the topping:

• 1 1/2 cups milk chocolate chips (or semi-sweet, depending on preference)
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra smoothness)

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the Base:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of rice cereal and 1 cup of salted peanuts (or any nuts you prefer). You can roughly chop the nuts if you want smaller pieces.
2. Set the bowl aside.

2. Make the Caramel Layer:

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
2. Add brown sugar, corn syrup, and salt (if using). Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves, and the mixture begins to bubble.
3. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, and let it cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly.
4. Remove from the heat and stir in vanilla extract.

3. Combine the Caramel and Cereal:

1. Pour the hot caramel mixture over the rice cereal and peanuts in the mixing bowl.
2. Stir quickly to combine and evenly coat the cereal and nuts with the caramel. Be careful as the mixture will be hot.

4. Press the Mixture into the Pan:

1. Line an 8×8-inch (or 9×9-inch) square baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Pour the cereal and caramel mixture into the pan, and press it down firmly using a spatula or the back of a spoon to form an even layer.

5. Make the Chocolate Topping:

1. In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt 1 1/2 cups of milk chocolate chips (or semi-sweet if you prefer a darker chocolate flavor).
2. If using the stovetop, heat the chocolate over low heat, stirring constantly. If using the microwave, heat in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
3. (Optional) For a creamier texture, stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream into the melted chocolate.

6. Pour the Chocolate Over the Crunch:

1. Once the caramel layer is set (it should still be slightly warm), pour the melted chocolate evenly over the top.
2. Use a spatula to spread the chocolate into an even layer.

7. Chill and Set:

1. Let the bars cool to room temperature, then refrigerate them for about 1-2 hours, or until the chocolate and caramel have set completely and the bars are firm.
2. Once chilled, cut into squares or bars of your desired size.

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Tips:

• For added flavor: You can sprinkle some sea salt over the top of the chocolate layer before it sets for a delicious salted caramel flavor.
• Different cereals: If you want a different texture, try swapping the rice cereal for Cornflakes, Cheerios, or even pretzels for a sweet and salty combination.
• Add-ins: Mix in mini marshmallows, toffee bits, or chopped candy bars for a fun twist.
• Storage: These bars can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week at room temperature, or longer if refrigerated.

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These Caramel Chocolate Crunch Bars are the perfect combination of sweet, salty, and crunchy. They’re easy to make and absolutely irresistible! Enjoy!