Stina Bars
Stina Bars are rich, crunchy treats with a buttery caramel base topped with melted chocolate and nuts, perfect for sharing at parties or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spray a large jelly roll pan with Pam cooking spray.
- Line the pan with foil.
- Spray the foil with Pam.
- Line the foil with a single layer of saltine crackers.
- In a saucepan, melt butter or margarine and light brown sugar until well blended.
- Bring to a boil, stirring constantly, and boil for 1 minute.
- Remove from heat and stir in baking soda.
- Spread the caramel mixture evenly over the crackers, pressing crackers back down if needed.
- Bake at 350°F for 10 minutes.
- Spread chocolate chips over the hot caramel layer and let stand until melted.
- Use the back of a spoon to spread the melted chocolate evenly over the pan.
- Sprinkle with finely chopped nuts.
- Chill until set, then cut into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using unsalted butter instead of margarine. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts or replace them with crushed pretzels for added crunch. Make sure to press the crackers down firmly after spreading the caramel mixture for even coverage. If you're looking for a twist, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the chocolate layer.
Serving Suggestions
These Stina Bars make a delightful treat for gatherings or as a sweet snack. Serve them alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a delicious afternoon break. They also pair beautifully with Vidalia Onion-Cranberry Relish as a savory contrast. For a festive touch, consider drizzling melted white chocolate over the top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store the Stina Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to two weeks. To reheat, simply place a square in the microwave for a few seconds until slightly warm, which will soften the chocolate.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stina Bars contains roughly 656 calories, with 12g protein, 98g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1351mg per serving (59% 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 cracker?
Yes, while saltine crackers are traditional, you can substitute with other types of crackers such as Ritz or even graham crackers for a different flavor profile. Just ensure they are sturdy enough to hold the caramel and chocolate layers.
How do I prevent the chocolate from seizing?
To prevent chocolate from seizing, ensure that the chocolate chips are added to the hot caramel layer right after baking. Allow them to sit for a few minutes to soften before spreading. Avoid contact with water, as moisture can cause chocolate to seize.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! Stina Bars can be made a day or two in advance. Just make sure to store them properly in an airtight container. They actually taste better after they have had time to set, as the flavors meld together beautifully.
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).