Caramel Layer Choc-Squares
Decadent caramel layer chocolate squares combine rich caramel and chocolate flavors with a crunchy cake crust, perfect for sweet cravings and sharing at gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a double boiler, combine caramels and 1/3 cup evaporated milk; cook over hot water, stirring constantly until caramels are melted.
- Set aside the caramel mixture.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine dry cake mix, melted butter, 1/3 cup evaporated milk, and nuts.
- Mix by hand until dough holds together.
- Press half of the dough into a greased and floured 9 x 13 x 2-inch baking pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 6 minutes.
- Spread the melted caramel mixture over the crust.
- Crumble the remaining dough over the caramel layer.
- Bake for an additional 15 to 18 minutes.
- Allow to cool; refrigerate about 30 minutes if needed, then cut into squares.
- Squares can be eaten warm; they may crumble.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark chocolate cake mix instead of German chocolate. If you can't find light caramel candies, Werther's Originals can work as a substitute. To avoid a sticky situation, line your baking pan with parchment paper before greasing it. Make sure to mix the dough thoroughly to ensure an even texture. If you want a nutty flavor, try adding chopped pecans or walnuts into the dough.
Serving Suggestions
These caramel layer choc-squares make for a delightful dessert at gatherings and pair beautifully with vanilla ice cream or a scoop of whipped cream. They also work well alongside coffee or milk for a comforting treat. For a touch of elegance, serve them with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of sea salt on top.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place individual squares in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will soften them while keeping the caramel gooey and delicious.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Caramel Layer Choc-Squares contains roughly 193 calories, with 2g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 10g fat.
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 make these squares ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the squares a day in advance. After baking and cooling, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste. Just remember to keep them away from direct sunlight to maintain their freshness.
What can I use instead of evaporated milk?
If you don't have evaporated milk on hand, you can substitute it with a mixture of regular milk and cream. Use 1/3 cup of milk mixed with a tablespoon of heavy cream to achieve a similar richness. Alternatively, almond milk can work for a dairy-free option, though it may slightly alter the flavor.
How do I prevent the squares from being too crumbly?
To prevent your squares from crumbling, ensure that the dough is well mixed and holds together before pressing it into the pan. If the mixture feels too dry, add a touch more melted butter or evaporated milk. Cooling the squares in the refrigerator after baking can also help them set properly.
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).