Cracker Bars
Cracker Bars are a delightful layered treat featuring buttery crackers, rich caramel-like topping, and melted chocolate and butterscotch chips, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings at gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Line the bottom of a cookie sheet with Keebler Club crackers.
- Combine oleo, milk, brown sugar, and crushed graham crackers in a saucepan.
- Bring to a boil and cook for 7 minutes, then pour the mixture over the crackers in the cookie sheet.
- Allow to cool completely.
- Top with chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, and melted peanut butter.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of oleo. If you're looking for a healthier twist, you can substitute the chocolate and butterscotch chips with dark chocolate or a mix of dried fruits and nuts. Make sure to press the mixture firmly over the crackers for better cohesion. This recipe can also be adapted into a no-bake dessert by chilling instead of baking.
Serving Suggestions
Cut the cracker bars into squares or rectangles for easy serving. They make a delightful treat for parties or as a sweet snack alongside coffee or tea. For a festive touch, serve them with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, which pairs beautifully with the flavors of this dessert. You might also enjoy them as a sweet complement to brunch items like a fresh fruit salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cracker bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you prefer them chilled, you can refrigerate them, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture. They also freeze well; just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to three months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cracker Bars contains roughly 973 calories, with 24g protein, 117g carbohydrates, and 49g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (49% of the Daily Value), iron (38% of the Daily Value), and calcium (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 832mg per serving (36% 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 different types of crackers for this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of crackers. Saltine crackers or graham crackers can provide a similar crunch, but keep in mind that they may alter the flavor profile slightly. Just ensure they are sturdy enough to hold the layers without getting soggy.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make gluten-free cracker bars, simply replace the Keebler Club crackers with gluten-free crackers available in stores. Also, ensure that the graham crackers you use are certified gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients should naturally be gluten-free, but it's always good to check labels.
What can I substitute for peanut butter?
If you need a substitute for peanut butter, almond butter or sunflower seed butter work well and will still provide a creamy texture. For a nut-free option, sunflower seed butter is a great choice that maintains the flavor profile without allergens.
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).