Why Make This Recipe
Irresistible Layers of Caramel, Chocolate, and Crunchy Bliss are the perfect treat for any occasion. These bars combine three favorites: sweet caramel, rich chocolate, and crunchy cereal, making them an instant hit. Whether you are baking for a party, gathering with family, or simply indulging yourself, this recipe is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Plus, they’re easy to make and look impressive when served, making them a go-to dessert.
How to Make Irresistible Layers of Caramel, Chocolate, and Crunchy Bliss
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (11 oz) bag caramel bits or wrapped caramels (about 40), unwrapped
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups crispy rice cereal
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix the flour, brown sugar, softened butter, and salt until crumbly.
- Press this mixture firmly into the prepared pan to form the base layer.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes until lightly golden.
- While the base bakes, melt the caramels with heavy cream in a saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth. Remove from heat.
- Sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the hot crust and return to the oven for 2–3 minutes until the chocolate softens. Use a spatula to gently spread the melted chocolate over the crust.
- Pour the melted caramel over the chocolate layer and gently spread it to the edges.
- In another bowl, stir the crispy rice cereal into the sweetened condensed milk until well mixed.
- Carefully spoon and spread this mixture over the caramel layer.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 15–20 minutes, or until bubbly and lightly golden on top.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares or bars for serving.
How to Serve Irresistible Layers of Caramel, Chocolate, and Crunchy Bliss
These delicious bars can be served at room temperature for the best taste. Cut them into squares or rectangles and place them on a serving platter. They are perfect for parties, picnics, or just as a sweet treat to enjoy at home. Serve them alongside a glass of milk or a cup of coffee for an added delight.
How to Store Irresistible Layers of Caramel, Chocolate, and Crunchy Bliss
Store these bars in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They can be kept at room temperature for about a week. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks. If you want to keep them even longer, consider freezing the bars. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
Tips to Make Irresistible Layers of Caramel, Chocolate, and Crunchy Bliss
- Make sure your butter is softened so that it blends easily with the sugar and flour, creating a smooth base layer.
- Stir the caramel mixture consistently over low heat to avoid burning it.
- Be careful when spreading the chocolate and caramel layers; a gentle touch will help keep those layers intact.
- If you want to add more texture, consider adding nuts or other crunchy toppings before baking the final layer.
Variation
If you would like to change things up, try adding a layer of chopped nuts or shredded coconut before pouring the caramel over the chocolate. You can also use different types of chocolate chips, such as milk chocolate or dark chocolate, to match your preference.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these bars ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make these bars a day or two in advance. Just store them in an airtight container until you’re ready to serve.
Q: What can I use instead of crispy rice cereal?
A: You can substitute crispy rice cereal with crushed graham crackers or chopped nuts for a different crunch.
Q: Can I use homemade caramel instead of store-bought?
A: Absolutely! Homemade caramel will work great and can add a personal touch to the recipe. Make sure it is smooth for easy spreading.
Irresistible Layers of Caramel, Chocolate, and Crunchy Bliss
Ingredients
Base Layer
- 2 cups all-purpose flour For the base layer.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar For sweetness.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Make sure it's softened.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt Enhances flavor.
Chocolate and Caramel Layer
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips For melting.
- 1 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk Mixed with cereal.
- 1 11 oz bag caramel bits or wrapped caramels, unwrapped About 40 caramels.
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream For melting with caramels.
Topping
- 1 1/2 cups crispy rice cereal For the top layer.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix the flour, brown sugar, softened butter, and salt until crumbly.
- Press this mixture firmly into the prepared pan to form the base layer.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes until lightly golden.
Chocolate and Caramel Layers
- While the base bakes, melt the caramels with heavy cream in a saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth. Remove from heat.
- Sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the hot crust and return to the oven for 2–3 minutes until the chocolate softens.
- Use a spatula to gently spread the melted chocolate over the crust.
- Pour the melted caramel over the chocolate layer and gently spread it to the edges.
Cereal Layer
- In another bowl, stir the crispy rice cereal into the sweetened condensed milk until well mixed.
- Carefully spoon and spread this mixture over the caramel layer.
Final Baking
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 15–20 minutes, or until bubbly and lightly golden on top.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares or bars for serving.
