Cho-Caramel Squares
Rich caramel and chocolate squares with crunchy pecans, layered on a tender cake-like base, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and sharing at gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt caramels with 1/3 cup of evaporated milk in a double boiler or microwave. Set aside.
- Grease a 9 x 13-inch pan and flour it.
- In a large bowl, combine the dry German chocolate cake mix, 3/4 cup melted oleo, and 1/3 cup evaporated milk.
- Press half of the dough into the prepared pan and bake at 350°F for 6 minutes.
- Sprinkle chocolate chips evenly over the baked layer.
- Spread the melted caramel mixture over the chocolate chips.
- Crumble the remaining dough over the caramel layer.
- Bake at 350°F for an additional 20 minutes.
- Allow to cool. Then refrigerate before serving.
- Cut into small squares and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet. If you want to lighten the recipe, substitute the oleo with unsweetened applesauce or a plant-based margarine. Make sure to crumble the remaining dough evenly over the caramel layer to ensure each square has a good balance of flavors. If you have any leftovers, they can be used in a dessert parfait similar to a Luscious Chocolate Pie.
Serving Suggestions
These Cho-Caramel Squares can be served as a delightful dessert at parties or family gatherings. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a festive touch, serve alongside a slice of Frozen Angel Salad or with a hot cup of coffee for a cozy treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To reheat, place squares in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, just until warmed through. Alternatively, you can enjoy them cold straight from the fridge, as the flavors meld beautifully over time.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cho-Caramel Squares contains roughly 146 calories, with 3g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 11g 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 this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Cho-Caramel Squares a day in advance. After baking and cooling, store them in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to develop further, enhancing the overall taste before serving.
What can I substitute for pecans?
If you're not a fan of pecans or have allergies, walnuts or almonds make great substitutes. You can also leave out the nuts entirely for a nut-free version, or use a mix of seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for added crunch.
Is it possible to use a different cake mix?
Absolutely! While German chocolate cake mix provides a unique flavor, you can substitute it with a chocolate or devil's food cake mix for a different twist. Just ensure that the mix you choose complements the caramel and chocolate layers.
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).