Introduction
If you’re a fan of sweet, crunchy, and irresistibly rich desserts, these Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars are about to become your new favorite treat! Combining layers of creamy caramel, crunchy Butterfinger bits, and a buttery cookie crust, these bars are a dessert lover’s dream. Whether you’re making them for a holiday party, a bake sale, or just because you’re craving something decadent, these bars are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
Why You’ll Love These Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars
- Irresistible Texture: From the crispy cookie base to the gooey caramel layer and the crunchy Butterfinger topping, every bite is a delightful mix of textures.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for potlucks, birthday parties, or any gathering, these bars are a guaranteed showstopper.
- Easy to Make: The recipe uses simple ingredients, and the step-by-step process ensures success even for beginner bakers.
- Customizable: While Butterfinger is the star, you can easily swap in other candy bars or toppings to suit your taste.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: These bars store well, making them ideal for prepping in advance.
Key Ingredients for Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars
Here’s what you’ll need to make this indulgent dessert, along with tips and potential substitutions:
the Cookie Base
- All-Purpose Flour: Creates the structure of the cookie crust. You can substitute gluten-free flour if needed.
- Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and binds the crust. Ensure it’s cold for a flaky texture.
- Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and a slight caramel-like depth to the crust.
For the Caramel Layer
- Caramel Candies: These melt down into the gooey caramel layer. You can also use caramel sauce, but adjust the consistency.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: Makes the caramel creamy and luxurious.
For the Crunchy Topping
- Butterfinger Candy Bars: The star of the show! Their signature peanut-buttery crunch takes this dessert to the next level. If you can’t find Butterfingers, try using Reese’s Pieces or Heath bars.
- Chocolate Chips: For an extra chocolatey finish. Semi-sweet or milk chocolate works best.
Additional Ingredients
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor of the cookie base.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and elevates the overall flavor profile.
Serving Time, Cooking Time, and Calories
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
- Cooling Time: 1–2 hours (to allow the caramel to set)
- Total Time: ~2.5 hours
- Servings: 12 large bars or 24 smaller bars
- Calories per Serving: ~250 calories (depending on portion size)
Ingredients List
Here’s a quick reference list of all the ingredients you’ll need:
For the Cookie Base
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp salt
For the Caramel Layer
- 1 ½ cups caramel candies (or 1 cup caramel sauce)
- ¼ cup sweetened condensed milk
the Topping
- 1 cup crushed Butterfinger candy bars (about 4 regular-size bars)
- ½ cup chocolate chips
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these detailed instructions to ensure your Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars turn out perfectly every time:
Prepare the Cookie Base
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper. Leave an overhang on the sides so you can easily lift the bars out after they’re baked and cooled.
- Pro Tip: If you don’t have parchment paper, you can grease the pan lightly with butter or cooking spray, but parchment makes cutting and removing the bars much easier.
- Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 ¾ cups of all-purpose flour, ¾ cup of cold unsalted butter (cubed), ½ cup of packed brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and ¼ teaspoon of salt.
- Use a pastry cutter, fork, or even your hands to mix the ingredients together. The goal is to break down the butter into smaller pieces, creating a crumbly mixture. It should look like wet sand or coarse crumbs.
- Pro Tip: If you use your hands, work quickly to avoid warming up the butter. Cold butter is essential for a firm and flaky crust.
- Press the Dough into the Pan: Pour the crumbly dough into the prepared pan. Using your hands or the back of a spoon, press it down firmly and evenly to create the crust.
- Pro Tip: Use the bottom of a flat measuring cup to press the dough down evenly, ensuring a smooth and uniform surface.
- Bake the Crust: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Pro Tip: Keep an eye on the crust during the last few minutes. You want a light golden color—not overbaked.
- Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the crust cool slightly while you prepare the caramel layer.
Make the Caramel Layer
- Melt the Caramel: In a medium saucepan, combine 1 ½ cups of caramel candies (unwrapped) and ¼ cup of sweetened condensed milk. Set the saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly with a spatula or wooden spoon.
- Pro Tip: Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent the caramel from scorching. Stir constantly to ensure smooth, lump-free caramel.
- If you’re using store-bought caramel sauce instead of candies, heat it gently in a microwave-safe bowl and mix in the condensed milk for added creaminess.
- Spread the Caramel Layer: Once the caramel is melted and smooth, carefully pour it over the baked cookie crust. Use a spatula to spread the caramel evenly across the crust.
- Pro Tip: Work quickly, as caramel can start to harden as it cools. If it begins to firm up, place the saucepan back over low heat to soften it again.
Add the Crunchy Topping
- Crush the Butterfingers: While the caramel layer is still warm, sprinkle the crushed Butterfinger candy bars (about 4 regular-sized bars) evenly over the top.
- Pro Tip: To crush Butterfingers, place them in a resealable plastic bag and use a rolling pin to break them into small pieces. You want a mix of fine crumbs and small chunks for the best texture.
- Add Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle ½ cup of chocolate chips evenly over the top. The warmth of the caramel layer will slightly melt the chocolate chips, helping them stick to the Butterfinger topping.
- Pro Tip: For a more polished look, press the toppings gently into the caramel layer with your hands or the back of a spoon.
Cool and Slice
- Cool the Bars Completely: Let the bars cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then transfer the pan to the refrigerator and chill for at least 1–2 hours, or until the caramel layer is fully set.
- Pro Tip: Cooling is crucial to achieving clean slices. Cutting too soon may cause the caramel to ooze or the crust to crumble.
- Slice the Bars: Once the bars are fully chilled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift them out of the pan. Place the slab on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to slice into squares or rectangles.
- Pro Tip: Run your knife under hot water and dry it between cuts for clean edges and neat layers.
Variations for Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars
- Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend.
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free butter, coconut caramel, and dairy-free sweetened condensed milk.
- Nut-Free Option: Substitute Butterfingers with nut-free candy, such as Kit Kats or Twix.
- Extra Crunch: Add chopped pretzels or toffee bits to the topping for an added layer of crunch.
- Drizzle It Up: Finish with a drizzle of melted white chocolate or dark chocolate for a fancier look.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are rich and flavorful, so smaller portions go a long way! Here’s how you can serve them:
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
For a balanced spread, consider offering savory options like this Crockpot Chicken Pot Pie alongside your dessert table.
- Serve alongside coffee or tea for a sweet afternoon treat.
- Add them to a dessert platter with brownies, cookies, and other bite-sized treats for variety.
Tips for the Best Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars
To ensure your bars turn out perfectly every time, follow these tips and tricks:
1. Use Quality Ingredients
- Butter: Stick to unsalted, high-quality butter for the best flavor. Salted butter may alter the taste of the crust.
- Caramel: Opt for high-quality caramel candies or sauce. Fresh caramel melts more smoothly and has a richer taste.
Enhance your caramel knowledge with recipes like the Pineapple Upside Down Cheesecake that make great use of similar components.
2. Keep the Butter Cold
- For the crust, cold butter is essential for achieving a tender yet firm base. If the butter softens too much while mixing, the crust can become dense.
- Pro Tip: If you feel the dough has warmed up too much during preparation, place it in the refrigerator for 10 minutes before pressing it into the pan.
3. Prevent Sticky Caramel Issues
- To avoid caramel sticking to your saucepan or spatula, lightly grease your spatula with cooking spray or butter before stirring.
- For easier slicing, store the bars in the fridge until the caramel layer is fully set and firm.
4. Master the Topping
- Balance the Butterfinger Crumbs: Don’t crush the Butterfingers into fine dust—leave some small chunks for a satisfying crunch.
- Even Distribution: When adding the topping, ensure an even layer so every bite has a perfect combination of caramel, chocolate, and Butterfinger crunch.
5. Cool Completely Before Slicing
- Patience is key. If the bars are even slightly warm, the caramel will stick to the knife and make it difficult to achieve clean slices. Refrigerate them fully before cutting.
6. Store Properly
- Store the bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. If stacking them, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
- For longer storage, freeze the bars in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Simply thaw them in the fridge overnight before serving.
7. Customize to Your Taste
- If you want to experiment, try adding other toppings like chopped peanuts, mini marshmallows, or crushed pretzels for extra flavor and crunch.
Benefits of This Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bar Recipe
- Perfect for Gifting: These bars make great edible gifts for holidays or special occasions. Wrap them in decorative boxes or cellophane bags for a thoughtful touch.
- Easy for Beginners: The straightforward steps and forgiving ingredients make this recipe accessible to anyone.
- Family-Friendly: Both kids and adults will love the combination of caramel, chocolate, and Butterfinger crunch.
What Is the Middle of a Butterfinger Made Of?
The middle of a Butterfinger is made of a crisp, flaky peanut butter core. This unique texture comes from a process where sugar and molasses are cooked and aerated, forming a light, crunchy base. The mixture is then blended with roasted peanut butter to give it the signature flavor and texture. This peanut butter core is then coated in a layer of smooth milk chocolate, creating the classic Butterfinger taste.
What Is the New Flavor of Butterfinger?
The latest flavor of Butterfinger is the Butterfinger Peanut Butter Cups Smooth & Crunchy. This version combines creamy peanut butter with Butterfinger’s signature crispy bits, wrapped in a rich chocolate shell. It offers a mix of smooth peanut butter and crunchy Butterfinger pieces, delivering the classic flavor in a new form.
Is Butterfinger Candy Bar Healthy?
Butterfinger candy bars are not considered a healthy snack due to their high sugar and calorie content. Here’s a breakdown of key nutritional factors:
- Calories: A regular Butterfinger bar contains approximately 250 calories.
- Sugar: It has around 24 grams of sugar, which is over half the recommended daily limit for adults.
- Fat: Butterfinger contains 10 grams of fat, including saturated fat.
While it can be enjoyed as an occasional treat, consuming Butterfinger regularly may contribute to weight gain, tooth decay, and other health concerns. Opt for smaller portions or healthier snacks if you’re watching your diet.
Does Butterfinger Have Caramel?
No, Butterfinger does not contain caramel. The center is made of a crisp peanut butter and sugar mixture, which provides its crunchy, flaky texture. While it might have a slight chewiness from the chocolate coating and peanut butter core, caramel is not an ingredient in Butterfinger. If you’re looking for a caramel-filled candy, options like Snickers or Milky Way might be better choices.
Conclusion
These Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars are the ultimate dessert for anyone with a sweet tooth. Their combination of buttery crust, gooey caramel, and crunchy Butterfinger topping is simply irresistible. Whether you’re serving them at a party, gifting them to friends, or enjoying them with your family, they’re sure to be a hit.
Try them out, and let us know how they turned out in the comments below! Share your creations on social media and tag your friends they’ll be begging for the recipe. Happy baking!