Chocolate 'N Caramel Bars
Chocolate 'N Caramel Bars are rich, indulgent treats combining chocolate chips, nuts, and caramel topping on a buttery cake mix base, perfect for satisfying dessert cravings and sharing with friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Grease a 13 x 9-inch pan.
- In a large bowl, combine cake mix, melted margarine or butter, and milk; mix well.
- Press half of the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Sprinkle chocolate chips and chopped nuts evenly over the dough.
- Drizzle the caramel ice cream topping evenly over the chocolate chips and nuts.
- Crumble the remaining dough mixture over the caramel topping.
- Bake at 350°F for 25 to 30 minutes or until the caramel begins to bubble.
- Cool completely before cutting into 36 bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using unsalted butter instead of margarine. If you're looking for a nut-free version, simply omit the chopped nuts or replace them with seeds, such as sunflower seeds. To make the bars even more indulgent, consider adding a layer of your favorite flavored frosting, like White Butter Frosting, on top after they cool.
Serving Suggestions
These Chocolate 'N Caramel Bars are perfect for a sweet treat at parties or as a dessert for family gatherings. Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra decadent dessert. For a delightful pairing, consider serving them with a cup of coffee or tea to balance the sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place individual bars in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes, ensuring they stay soft and gooey.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chocolate 'N Caramel Bars contains roughly 102 calories, with 1g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 6g 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 use a different type of cake mix?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for German chocolate cake mix, you can experiment with other flavors like chocolate or vanilla cake mixes. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly, but it will still yield delicious results.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when the edges are lightly golden and the caramel begins to bubble. You can also insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs, they are ready to be taken out of the oven.
Can I freeze these bars?
Yes, you can freeze these bars! Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
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).