Goombars
Goombars are rich, sweet, and chewy treats combining caramel, chocolate cake, and nuts, perfect for satisfying dessert cravings or sharing at gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Melt caramels with 1/3 cup Pet milk in a double boiler or microwave, stirring every minute if using microwave to prevent burning.
- Mix German chocolate cake mix, vanilla, melted oleo, and mini chocolate chips in a bowl.
- Pour the batter into a greased baking dish.
- Bake for about 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Optional: top with nuts before baking or sprinkle additional mini chocolate chips on top after baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of sea salt to the caramel mixture. If you're looking for a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts and use dairy-free chocolate chips for a vegan-friendly treat. If you don't have Pet milk, whole milk or almond milk can serve as a substitute. Baking time may vary, so keep an eye on the brownies after the 15-minute mark to avoid over-baking.
Serving Suggestions
These Goombars are delicious on their own but can be enhanced with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a delightful dessert. They also pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk. For a festive touch, consider serving them at gatherings alongside other treats like Aunt Lorene's Pumpkin Dessert Ring or Sand Tarts (Rolled Sugar Cookies).
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, simply microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm them in a low oven for a few minutes until soft and gooey again. This will help maintain the delicious texture of the Goombars.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Goombars contains roughly 517 calories, with 2g protein, 46g 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 use a different type of cake mix for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the German chocolate cake mix with other flavors like chocolate or vanilla. Just keep in mind that this may alter the overall taste of the Goombars. Experimenting with different mixes can lead to exciting variations that may become new family favorites.
What can I do with leftover caramel sauce?
Leftover caramel sauce can be stored in a glass jar in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Use it as a topping for ice cream, pancakes, or even drizzled over fruit. You can also warm it slightly in the microwave before using to return it to a pourable consistency.
Can I make these Goombars ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the batter and bake the Goombars a day in advance. Just be sure to cool them completely before storing them in an airtight container. When ready to serve, allow them to come to room temperature or reheat gently as described above for the best texture.
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).