Caramel Chocolate Cookie Bars
Decadent caramel chocolate cookie bars feature a rich combination of caramel, chocolate, and pecans, perfect for sharing at parties or satisfying sweet cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt evaporated milk and caramels together until smooth. Set aside.
- Mix cake mix, 1/3 cup plus 1 tablespoon evaporated milk, and melted margarine to form a dough.
- Press slightly more than half of the mixture into a greased and floured 9 x 13-inch cake pan.
- Bake for 6 minutes at 350°F.
- Sprinkle chocolate chips and chopped pecans over the baked layer.
- Spread the caramel mixture over this layer.
- Crumble the remaining cake mixture on top.
- Bake until sides pull away from the pan, approximately 20 to 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of sea salt to the caramel mixture. If you don't have pecans, walnuts or almonds can be a great substitute. Make sure the margarine is fully melted before adding it to the cake mix to ensure a smooth dough. Also, pressing the dough firmly into the pan can help create a sturdy base for the bars.
Serving Suggestions
These cookie bars are delicious on their own but can be elevated with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce. They make a wonderful dessert for gatherings and pair beautifully with Easy Pecan Cake for a sweet spread. Serve with coffee or milk for a delightful treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover caramel chocolate cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place the bars in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds, just until warm, or enjoy them cold for a firmer texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Caramel Chocolate Cookie Bars contains roughly 449 calories, with 7g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 cake mix?
Yes, you can experiment with other cake mixes like chocolate or vanilla to create unique flavors. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly depending on the mix you choose.
How do I ensure the bars are chewy and not dry?
To keep the bars chewy, avoid overbaking them. Check for doneness around the 20-minute mark; the edges should be golden brown, and the center may look slightly underbaked but will firm up as it cools.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars can be made a day in advance. Just allow them to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
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).