Caramel Candy Bars
Chewy caramel candy bars with a crunchy oat and brown sugar crust, topped with chocolate chips and nuts, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings or sharing at gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 13 x 9 x 2-inch pan.
- Heat caramel candies and milk in a 2-quart saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until smooth. Remove from heat.
- In a large bowl, mix together flour, oats, brown sugar, baking soda, salt, and egg.
- Stir in softened margarine or butter with a fork until the mixture is crumbly.
- Press half of the crumbly mixture into the prepared pan and bake for 10 minutes.
- Sprinkle with chocolate chips and chopped walnuts or peanuts.
- Drizzle the caramel mixture evenly over the top.
- Sprinkle the remaining crumbly mixture over the caramel layer.
- Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Cool before cutting into bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using half butter and half margarine. You can substitute the walnuts with pecans or omit nuts altogether for a nut-free version. If you prefer a gooier texture, slightly reduce the baking time. Always ensure that the caramel mixture is well combined and smooth to prevent any clumps in the final bars.
Serving Suggestions
These caramel candy bars are perfect for dessert or as a sweet snack. Serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making them an excellent choice for afternoon gatherings. For a festive twist, consider serving with a side of Creamy Crab And Artichoke Dip.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover caramel candy bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, they can be frozen; wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Caramel Candy Bars contains roughly 555 calories, with 7g protein, 93g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is a good source of iron (16% of the Daily Value), calcium (15% of the Daily Value), and protein (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1171mg per serving (51% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a more nutritious option, though it may alter the texture slightly. Gluten-free flour blends can also be used, but be sure to check the package instructions for adjustments in liquid ratios.
What can I use instead of chocolate chips?
If you don't have chocolate chips on hand, you can use chopped chocolate bars, white chocolate chips, or even butterscotch chips for a different flavor profile. Alternatively, you can skip the chocolate entirely and add dried fruits for a chewy texture.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when they are golden brown and the edges start to pull away from the sides of the pan. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out with a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).