Name: Caramel Crush Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup rolled oats; 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk; 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade); 1 cup chocolate chips

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These Caramel Crush Bars are the perfect combination of rich, buttery goodness and sweet caramel flavor. With a crunchy topping and gooey caramel center, these bars are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Whether you’re baking for a party, a family gathering, or just because, these bars will be a hit every time!

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 cup brown sugar

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup rolled oats

1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk

1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

1 cup chocolate chips

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9x9-inch baking dish with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

Add the flour, baking soda, salt, and vanilla extract, and stir until combined.

Mix in the oats until the dough forms a crumbly texture.

Press two-thirds of the dough mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust.

In a small saucepan, heat the sweetened condensed milk and caramel sauce over medium heat. Stir constantly until the mixture is smooth and heated through.

Pour the caramel mixture evenly over the crust.

Crumble the remaining dough mixture over the top of the caramel layer.

Sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the top.

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is set.

Let the bars cool completely before cutting into squares.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

If I want to switch things up, I can try using different types of chocolate chips, like dark chocolate or milk chocolate. Adding nuts like chopped pecans or walnuts can also give the bars an extra layer of flavor and crunch. If I’m in the mood for a richer caramel taste, I can use homemade caramel sauce instead of store-bought. You can also experiment with adding a pinch of sea salt on top to enhance the caramel’s sweetness.

Storage/Reheating

I like to store these bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If I want to keep them longer, I can store them in the fridge, where they’ll stay fresh for up to a week. To reheat, I simply pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or enjoy them at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, I can make these bars a day or two ahead of time. They’ll stay fresh if stored in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge.

Can I freeze these Caramel Crush Bars?

Absolutely! If I want to freeze them, I can wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months in the freezer. When I’m ready to enjoy them, I just let them thaw at room temperature.

What kind of caramel sauce should I use?

I can use store-bought caramel sauce for convenience or make my own if I prefer. Either way, I recommend choosing a smooth and creamy caramel sauce to ensure the bars have that rich, gooey texture.

Can I substitute the rolled oats with something else?

If I’m not a fan of oats, I can try using crushed graham crackers or a similar crumbly ingredient to create the crust. Just keep in mind that the texture may change slightly.

How do I know when the bars are done?

I know the bars are ready when the edges are golden brown, and the center is set. The caramel will be bubbling slightly, and when cooled, it will hold its shape without being runny.

Conclusion

These Caramel Crush Bars are a delicious treat that combines the best of buttery, sweet, and crunchy textures. I love how easy they are to make, and the caramel filling adds the perfect touch of indulgence. Whether for a special occasion or a simple snack, these bars are sure to impress everyone who tries them. I can’t wait to make them again!

Recipe:

Caramel Crush Bars

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 12 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9x9-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the flour, baking soda, salt, and vanilla extract, and stir until combined.
Mix in the oats until the dough forms a crumbly texture.
Press two-thirds of the dough mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust.
In a small saucepan, heat the sweetened condensed milk and caramel sauce over medium heat. Stir constantly until the mixture is smooth and heated through.
Pour the caramel mixture evenly over the crust.
Crumble the remaining dough mixture over the top of the caramel layer.
Sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the top.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is set.
Let the bars cool completely before cutting into squares.