Mortal Sin Bars
Decadent layered bars combining rich chocolate, caramel, pecans, and a buttery cake crust, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and ideal for gatherings or indulgent treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the cake mix, melted butter, and 2/3 cup evaporated milk until the batter is very thick.
- Spread half of the batter into greased 9 x 13-inch pans.
- Bake at 350°F for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Meanwhile, melt the caramels in 1/3 cup evaporated milk.
- Spread the melted caramel mixture over the baked layer.
- Sprinkle with chopped pecans and chocolate chips.
- Spread the remaining batter over the top.
- Sprinkle with additional nuts if desired.
- Bake an additional 15 to 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using unsweetened cocoa powder in place of some of the cake mix. If you don't have caramels, a homemade caramel sauce can be an excellent substitute. To enhance the texture, consider adding crushed graham crackers to the batter. Ensure that the cake mix is thoroughly combined to achieve the perfect density. Also, for a nut-free version, you can omit the pecans or replace them with sunflower seeds.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are delicious on their own but can be served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk, making them a perfect treat for afternoon gatherings. For an added touch, drizzle melted chocolate over the top before serving to enhance their presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Mortal Sin Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place a bar in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes, ensuring they remain soft and gooey.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mortal Sin Bars contains roughly 1928 calories, with 18g protein, 121g carbohydrates, and 156g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (38% of the Daily Value), protein (36% of the Daily Value), and calcium (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 587mg per serving (26% 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 a different type of cake mix?
Yes, you can experiment with other cake mixes, such as chocolate or vanilla, for varied flavors. Just keep in mind that the texture and sweetness may change slightly, so adjust the amount of added sugar or other sweet ingredients accordingly.
How can I make these bars gluten-free?
To make gluten-free Mortal Sin Bars, substitute the German chocolate cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix. Ensure that all other ingredients, particularly the chocolate chips and caramels, are also gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy the same delicious taste without the gluten.
Can I freeze these bars for later?
Absolutely! You can freeze Mortal Sin Bars for up to three months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours before serving.
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).