Chocolate Caramel Crunch Bars are a decadent treat featuring layers of crispy, crunchy goodness, rich caramel, and smooth chocolate. These no-bake bars are perfect for dessert, parties, or as an indulgent snack. With a satisfying crunch and a gooey caramel center, they are irresistible for anyone who loves the combination of chocolate and caramel.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

No-Bake and Easy to Make – No oven required, making them quick and simple.
Perfect Texture Combination – Crispy, chewy, and smooth in every bite.
Great for Any Occasion – A crowd-pleasing dessert for parties and holidays.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Stores well for a convenient treat.
Customizable – Adjust the ingredients for different flavors and textures.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the crunch layer:

Crispy rice cereal
Graham cracker crumbs
Melted butter
Brown sugar

For the caramel layer:

Soft caramels (or homemade caramel sauce)
Heavy cream
A pinch of sea salt

For the chocolate topping:

Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
Coconut oil or butter (for smoothness)

Directions

Prepare the base: Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper. In a bowl, mix crispy rice cereal, graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and brown sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan.
Melt the caramel: In a saucepan over low heat, melt caramels with heavy cream, stirring until smooth. Pour over the crust and spread evenly. Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the caramel.
Melt the chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips with coconut oil in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
Assemble the bars: Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel layer and spread evenly.
Chill and set: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until firm.
Slice and serve: Once set, cut into squares and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12 bars
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chilling Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Variations

Peanut Butter Twist: Add a layer of peanut butter between the caramel and chocolate.
Nutty Crunch: Stir chopped almonds or peanuts into the base.
Salted Caramel Version: Use extra flaky sea salt for a sweet-salty contrast.
White Chocolate Version: Swap dark chocolate for white chocolate for a sweeter variation.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free graham crackers or omit them.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: No reheating needed—serve chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I use homemade caramel instead of store-bought caramels?

Yes! Homemade caramel sauce works great if thick enough to set.

How do I keep the bars from sticking to the pan?

Use parchment paper for easy removal.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes! They store well and can be made a day or two in advance.

How do I get clean slices?

Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water for smooth cuts.

Can I add more crunch?

Yes! Try adding crushed pretzels or toasted coconut.

Do I have to use coconut oil in the chocolate?

No, but it helps create a smooth, glossy topping.

Can I make these dairy-free?

Use dairy-free butter, caramel, and chocolate substitutes.

What’s the best chocolate to use?

Semi-sweet or dark chocolate works best, but milk chocolate is a sweeter option.

Can I add extra layers?

Absolutely! A cookie layer or additional caramel drizzle adds even more decadence.

Are these bars overly sweet?

They are rich but balanced. Adding nuts or extra sea salt helps cut the sweetness.

Conclusion

Chocolate Caramel Crunch Bars are the perfect mix of chewy caramel, crunchy layers, and smooth chocolate. Whether you make them for a party, as a special treat, or for a homemade gift, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. Try different variations and enjoy this no-bake delight today!

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Author: Mariem
Total Time: 2 hrs
Yield: 12 bars 1x

Print Recipe

Description

A luxurious dessert bar with a buttery caramel base, a crunchy layer, and a smooth chocolate topping

Ingredients

Units Scale

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup melted butter
1 can sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup crushed cookies or nuts
1 cup melted dark chocolate
Fresh berries for garnish

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Instructions

Mix graham crumbs and butter, press into a baking dish, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
In a saucepan, heat condensed milk and brown sugar until thick. Stir in vanilla.
Pour caramel over crust, then top with crushed cookies or nuts.
Spread melted chocolate on top and chill for 2 hours.
Garnish with berries before serving.

Notes

Sprinkle sea salt on top for extra flavor.
Use white chocolate for a different variation.

Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American