Goombaughs
Goombaughs are decadent layered bars combining caramel, chocolate chips, nuts, and cake mix for a rich, sweet treat perfect for sharing at gatherings or satisfying dessert cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the cake mix, melted butter, evaporated milk, and nuts in a bowl.
- Spread half of the cake mixture evenly in a greased 9 x 13-inch baking pan.
- Bake the first layer at 350°F for 10 minutes.
- While baking, melt the caramel and set aside.
- Pour the melted caramel over the baked cake layer.
- Sprinkle chocolate chips over the caramel layer.
- Top with the remaining cake mixture evenly spread over the chocolate chips.
- Bake at 350°F for an additional 20 minutes until golden and cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet. If you're short on time, you can use a store-bought caramel sauce instead of melting caramel yourself. Additionally, you can substitute the nuts with chocolate-covered pretzels for a crunchy twist. Make sure to grease the baking pan well to prevent sticking, and let the layers cool slightly before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Goombaughs warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert. They pair beautifully with a side of fresh fruit, such as berries or sliced bananas, to balance the sweetness. You can also drizzle some additional melted chocolate or caramel on top for added indulgence. Consider serving alongside a light beverage to complement the richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Goombaughs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds until warm. This dessert is best enjoyed fresh but can still be delightful when reheated.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Goombaughs contains roughly 1513 calories, with 11g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 140g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (23% of the Daily Value) and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium.
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 a standard cake mix, you can experiment with flavored mixes like chocolate or vanilla for a unique twist. Just ensure that the flavor complements the caramel and chocolate layers for the best results.
How can I make this dessert gluten-free?
To make Goombaughs gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free cake mix. Check the labels on your ingredients, especially the chocolate chips and nuts, to ensure they are certified gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I add other toppings to the Goombaughs?
Yes! Feel free to customize the toppings by adding shredded coconut, mini marshmallows, or even crushed cookies on top before the final bake. Just be mindful of the balance of flavors, as too many toppings can overwhelm the caramel and chocolate.
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).