Chef Mitchell preparing Homemade Chocolate Caramel Bars
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I stumbled upon this recipe during a baking marathon with friends, and it quickly became a favorite. The combination of chocolate and caramel was so delightful that I spent months perfecting the ratios and techniques to achieve the perfect gooey texture. Now, it’s my go-to dessert for any occasion, bringing smiles to everyone who tries it. It's a recipe that has truly become a staple in my kitchen."

With over a decade of experience in American cuisine, Chef Mitchell specializes in creating memorable dessert recipes. His passion for baking shines through his creations, making even the simplest ingredients shine. Having taught numerous workshops, he aims to inspire others to explore the joys of baking.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Homemade Chocolate Caramel Bars served on a plate

Why This Homemade Chocolate Caramel Bars Recipe Works

This recipe stands out due to its perfect balance of textures and flavors. The crust is buttery and rich, while the gooey caramel layer adds sweetness that perfectly complements the chocolate. It's easy enough for a novice baker but impressive enough to serve at a gathering, making it a versatile recipe for any occasion. It's a dessert that appeals to both chocolate lovers and caramel enthusiasts alike.

The technique of partially baking the base before adding the filling ensures that the bars have a sturdy structure. This method also helps to prevent the chocolate and caramel from sinking too deep, allowing for a beautiful layered effect. The result is a treat with a chewy center and a slightly crunchy top that keeps every bite exciting.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best results, make sure the butter is at room temperature before starting. This allows for better mixing, creating a smoother batter. Also, be cautious not to overbake the bars; they should be slightly soft in the center when you take them out of the oven, as they will continue to set while cooling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Absolutely! These bars can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container. They actually taste better after a day or two as the flavors have time to meld together. Just be sure to let them cool completely before cutting them and storing them properly to maintain their texture.

You can substitute butter with margarine or a vegan butter alternative if you prefer a dairy-free option. For a healthier choice, consider using coconut oil, which will add a subtle coconut flavor to the bars. Just make sure to melt it before using for the best results.

The bars are done when the top is set and lightly golden, and the edges start to pull away from the sides of the pan. They should still feel slightly soft in the center, as they will continue to firm up while cooling. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.

Yes, these bars freeze very well! Once cooled and cut, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to an airtight container with layers of parchment paper in between to prevent sticking. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Just thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.

These bars are delicious on their own, but pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. You can also serve them with fresh fruit like berries for a refreshing contrast. A drizzle of extra caramel sauce or chocolate sauce can elevate them even further for a decadent treat.

Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, these bars will last for about a week. If you want to maintain their freshness, consider placing a piece of parchment paper between the bars to prevent them from sticking together. If they start to harden, you can warm them slightly in the microwave for a few seconds.

Yes, making these bars in advance is a great option! You can prepare them a day or two ahead of your event. Just make sure to store them properly to keep them fresh. When you're ready to serve, you can either enjoy them cold or warm them slightly for a gooier texture.

To reheat, place the bars on a microwave-safe plate and heat them in short bursts of 10-15 seconds until warmed through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause them to become tough. Alternatively, you can warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed and the chocolate is melty.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: The bars turn out dry and crumbly instead of chewy.

Solution: Ensure that you are measuring the flour accurately, as too much flour can lead to dryness. Also, avoid overbaking; the bars should be removed from the oven when they are still slightly soft in the center.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: The top layer doesn't have the desired crunch.

Solution: For a crispier texture, bake the bars a few minutes longer, but watch closely to prevent burning. Adding chopped nuts can also enhance the crunch factor.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: The bars are tough and dry due to overcooking.

Prevention: To prevent overcooking, always set a timer and check for doneness a few minutes before the suggested baking time is up. Remember that the bars will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: The center remains gooey and undercooked.

Recovery: If you find the center is undercooked, return the bars to the oven for a few more minutes, keeping an eye on the edges to prevent burning. Make sure to allow them to cool completely before cutting, as they will firm up.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: The edges of the bars are burnt while the center is still soft.

Prevention: To prevent burnt edges, consider using an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the right temperature. You can also lower the baking temperature slightly and extend the baking time to ensure even cooking.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the bars are too sweet, balance them with a pinch of salt or serve with a dollop of unsweetened whipped cream.

Too Salty: In case the bars are too salty, you may need to adjust your salt measurement next time and consider adding a bit of sugar to balance.

Bland: If they taste bland, try adding a splash of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of sea salt on top for enhanced flavor.

Fresh ingredients for Homemade Chocolate Caramel Bars

Essential Ingredients for Homemade Chocolate Caramel Bars

The key ingredients in this recipe include unsalted butter, which provides richness, and brown sugar for deep flavor. The combination of chocolate chips and caramel sauce creates a delightful layer that defines these bars. Using high-quality ingredients will make a noticeable difference in the final taste and texture.

It's essential to use fresh ingredients, especially the butter and chocolate, to ensure the best flavor. Opt for good quality chocolate chips, as they will melt beautifully and contribute to a richer taste. Pay attention to the type of caramel sauce used; homemade or premium store-bought options yield the best results.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the amount of salt in the recipe. Make sure it's at room temperature for easy mixing and a smooth batter.
  • Chocolate Chips: Choose semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a balance of sweetness and richness. High-quality chocolate will melt better and provide a more intense flavor.
  • Caramel Sauce: For the best flavor, consider making your own caramel sauce. However, if using store-bought, pick one that is thick and creamy for optimal results.
Cooking process for Homemade Chocolate Caramel Bars

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process for these bars is straightforward, making them accessible even for beginner bakers. Start by preparing a simple crust, then add a delicious caramel filling, topped with chocolate chips. The layers meld beautifully during baking, creating a tasty treat.

To achieve perfect results, ensure you cool the bars completely before cutting them. This allows the layers to set properly and makes for cleaner cuts. The end result is a beautiful, layered bar that is both chewy and crunchy with rich flavors.

Key Technique for Perfect Homemade Chocolate Caramel Bars

The key technique for these bars is to ensure that the crust is slightly underbaked before adding the caramel filling. This helps to maintain a chewy texture and prevents the bottom from becoming too dry. Layering the ingredients carefully also helps in achieving a balanced flavor and texture.

Homemade Chocolate Caramel Bars

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 1 cup brown sugar
    Packed
  • 1 can sweetened condensed milk
    14 oz
  • 1 cup caramel sauce
    Store-bought or homemade
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
    For creaminess

For the Sauce

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
    Sifted
  • 2 cups chocolate chips
    Semi-sweet or dark
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
    For sweetness
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    To enhance flavor
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
    For leavening
  • 1/2 cup cocoa powder
    Unsweetened
  • 1 cup chopped nuts
    Optional, for crunch
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
    For dusting

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Base

    Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugars until smooth. Gradually mix in the flour, baking powder, cocoa powder, and salt until combined.

  2. Bake the Base

    Spread the mixture evenly in a greased 9x13 inch baking pan. Bake for about 15 minutes until set but not fully cooked.

  3. Make Caramel Filling

    In a saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, caramel sauce, and heavy cream. Cook over medium heat until thickened, stirring constantly.

  4. Add Caramel

    Pour the caramel mixture over the partially baked base, spreading it evenly.

  5. Add Chocolate Layer

    Sprinkle the chocolate chips over the caramel layer, followed by any chopped nuts if using.

  6. Bake Again

    Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until the top is bubbly and set.

  7. Cool and Cut

    Let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

  8. Serve

    Serve as a delicious dessert or snack, and enjoy the rich flavors!

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

Store the Homemade Chocolate Caramel Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to two weeks. Make sure they are fully cooled before storing to avoid sogginess.

Serving Suggestions

These bars can be served warm or at room temperature. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an indulgent treat. They also make a great addition to dessert platters.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize these bars by adding different types of chocolate, such as white chocolate or milk chocolate. You can also incorporate flavorings like espresso powder or a splash of almond extract for a unique twist.