Knock 'Em Naked Bars
Knock 'Em Naked Bars are decadently layered treats combining chocolate, caramel, and nuts, with a rich, chewy texture and sweet flavor profile. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or satisfying a sweet craving, these bars are easy to make and sure to delight everyone with their indulgent taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the German chocolate cake mix, chopped nuts, 1/3 cup evaporated milk, and melted butter until crumbly.
- Press 1 3/4 cups of the mixture into a greased 9 x 13-inch glass baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 8 minutes.
- Melt the vanilla caramels and remaining 1/2 cup evaporated milk in a double boiler or microwave until smooth.
- Pour the caramel mixture over the warm cake base.
- Sprinkle chocolate chips and the remaining cake mix over the caramel layer.
- Bake for an additional 18 to 20 minutes, avoiding overbaking.
- Allow the bars to cool in the pan before cutting.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the batter. If you don't have German chocolate cake mix, a devil's food or chocolate cake mix can be a delightful substitute. For added texture, try using pecans or walnuts instead of mixed nuts. Ensure the caramels are fully melted for a smooth layer; if they are too thick, add a splash more evaporated milk.
Serving Suggestions
Cut these bars into squares and serve them as a decadent dessert at gatherings or potlucks. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a fun twist, serve with a warm chocolate sauce or alongside a slice of Spice Cake(Peppercake) to create a dessert platter that impresses.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Knock 'Em Naked Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds; this will help soften the caramel layer and make them delightful again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Knock 'Em Naked Bars contains roughly 1664 calories, with 2g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 172g 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?
Yes, you can substitute German chocolate cake mix with a devil's food or chocolate cake mix for a similar taste. Each option will yield slightly different flavors, but they all work well with the caramel layer.
What can I use instead of nuts?
If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts or replace them with an equal amount of oats for added texture. This will still create a deliciously chewy base without the crunch.
Can I freeze these bars?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature before enjoying.
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).