Yummy Caramel Bars
Sweet and gooey caramel bars with chocolate chips and nuts, featuring a moist cake-like base and rich caramel topping, perfect for satisfying dessert cravings and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine caramels and 1/3 cup of milk over low heat until caramels are melted; set aside.
- Grease a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- In a large bowl, combine butter, dry cake mix, 1/3 cup milk, and nuts. Stir by hand until dough holds together.
- Spread the cake mix mixture evenly in the prepared pan.
- Pour the melted caramel mixture over the top.
- Sprinkle chocolate chips over the caramel layer.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool before slicing and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more indulgent flavor, try using salted butter instead of margarine. You can substitute the chopped nuts with crushed pretzels for a salty crunch, or omit them entirely for a nut-free version. If you want a richer caramel flavor, consider adding a pinch of sea salt to the caramel mixture. Ensure the caramels are fully melted before pouring over the cake base for the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
These caramel bars are delicious on their own but can be served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack. They also make a great dessert option for gatherings and pair beautifully with Moist Chewy Brownies for a dessert platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you prefer a firmer texture, refrigerate them for a few hours before serving. To reheat, place individual bars in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, just until warm, to enjoy them gooey again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Yummy Caramel Bars contains roughly 1885 calories, with 21g protein, 183g carbohydrates, and 122g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (42% of the Daily Value), iron (42% of the Daily Value), and calcium (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 696mg per serving (30% 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 for this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different flavors of cake mix, such as chocolate or vanilla. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change, but it can lead to delicious variations of these caramel bars.
How can I make these caramel bars gluten-free?
To make gluten-free caramel bars, substitute the German chocolate cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix. Also, ensure that the chocolate chips and any added nuts are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
What can I do if my caramel mixture is too thick?
If your caramel mixture becomes too thick while melting, add an additional tablespoon of evaporated milk gradually until you reach a smooth, pourable consistency. Stir well to incorporate the milk and heat gently if needed.
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).