Peanut-Caramel Bars With Chocolate | Kookmutsjes
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Delight in the sweet and salty combination of these Peanut-Caramel Bars, topped with rich chocolate. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth!
These Peanut-Caramel Bars are a delightful treat that combines the nuttiness of peanuts with the sweetness of caramel and the richness of chocolate. They are perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a special snack.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Irresistibly crunchy peanut topping
- Decadent caramel layer that adds sweetness
- Rich chocolate drizzle for the perfect finish
The Perfect Treat for Any Occasion
These Peanut-Caramel Bars are an ideal dessert for any gathering. Whether it's a birthday party, family reunion, or just a simple get-together with friends, these bars will surely impress your guests. Their delightful combination of flavors and textures makes them a standout treat that everyone will love. Plus, they are easy to transport, making them a hassle-free option when you want to share something sweet.
Serving these bars is a breeze. Simply slice them into squares or rectangles, and you have perfectly portioned treats ready to go. You can even package them in cute boxes or wrap them in parchment paper for a lovely homemade gift. No matter how you present them, these bars will be the highlight of any dessert table.
A Sweet and Salty Sensation
The combination of salty peanuts and sweet caramel creates a sensational flavor profile that is hard to resist. This contrast enhances each bite, making it a delightful experience for your taste buds. The richness of the chocolate topping adds another layer of indulgence, balancing the sweetness of the caramel perfectly. This recipe embraces the sweet and salty trend that has taken the culinary world by storm.
If you're a fan of textures, you'll love how these bars come together. The crunchy graham cracker base provides a sturdy foundation, while the chewy caramel and crunchy peanuts create a satisfying mouthfeel. Topped off with silky chocolate, each layer contributes to a harmonious blend that will leave you wanting more.
Customization and Variations
One of the best aspects of these Peanut-Caramel Bars is their versatility. Feel free to experiment with different types of nuts, such as almonds or cashews, to suit your preferences. You can also swap out semi-sweet chocolate for milk or dark chocolate, depending on your taste. For an extra kick, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top for an elevated flavor profile.
Additionally, if you're looking to make these bars a bit healthier, you can use whole grain graham crackers or substitute some of the sugar with a natural sweetener. These small adjustments can make a significant difference without compromising the deliciousness of the recipe.
Ingredients
Gather all the ingredients before you start to ensure a smooth cooking process.
For the Base
- 1 cup crushed graham crackers
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup sugar
For the Caramel Layer
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup salted peanuts
For the Chocolate Topping
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.
Instructions
Follow these steps closely for a successful outcome.
Prepare the Base
In a mixing bowl, combine crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a lined baking dish.
Make the Caramel
In a saucepan, combine sugar, heavy cream, and butter. Cook over medium heat until the mixture reaches a golden caramel color. Stir in the salted peanuts and pour over the graham cracker base.
Add the Chocolate Topping
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips with coconut oil until smooth. Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel layer and spread evenly.
Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours before slicing. Cut into squares and enjoy!
Once sliced, these bars can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.
Storage Tips
To keep your Peanut-Caramel Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to a week, but we doubt they'll last that long! If you want to make them ahead of time, they freeze well too. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight.
Avoid exposing the bars to moisture, as this can affect their texture. If you notice any moisture buildup, place a paper towel in the container to absorb it. This will help maintain the crunchiness of the graham cracker base and the peanuts.
Pairing Suggestions
These Peanut-Caramel Bars pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages. A cup of coffee or a latte complements the rich flavors perfectly, making for an indulgent afternoon treat. If you're a tea lover, consider a cup of chai or green tea, which can balance the sweetness and enhance the overall experience.
For a fun twist, serve these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy texture of the ice cream combined with the crunchy bars creates a delightful contrast. You can even drizzle some extra melted chocolate or caramel over the top to take it to the next level.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use unsalted peanuts?
Yes, you can use unsalted peanuts if you prefer less saltiness in the bars.
→ How do I store the bars?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
→ Can I substitute graham crackers?
Yes, you can use digestive biscuits or any similar cookie as a base.
→ Is there a dairy-free option?
You can use dairy-free butter and coconut cream to make this recipe dairy-free.
Peanut-Caramel Bars With Chocolate | Kookmutsjes
Delight in the sweet and salty combination of these Peanut-Caramel Bars, topped with rich chocolate. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth!
Created by: Ariana Brooks
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 16 bars
What You'll Need
For the Base
- 1 cup crushed graham crackers
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup sugar
For the Caramel Layer
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup salted peanuts
For the Chocolate Topping
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
How-To Steps
In a mixing bowl, combine crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a lined baking dish.
In a saucepan, combine sugar, heavy cream, and butter. Cook over medium heat until the mixture reaches a golden caramel color. Stir in the salted peanuts and pour over the graham cracker base.
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips with coconut oil until smooth. Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel layer and spread evenly.
Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours before slicing. Cut into squares and enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g