Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars Recipe

Hello, dessert lovers! If you’re looking for a treat that combines gooey caramel, crunchy graham crackers, marshmallows, and the unmistakable flavor of Butterfinger, you’ve come to the right place. These Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars are easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for sharing. Let’s get started on this sweet adventure!

Introduction

Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars are the ultimate indulgence for anyone who loves the combination of creamy caramel, marshmallows, and chocolate. This no-bake dessert comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy days when you need an impressive sweet treat. The layered textures—from the crisp graham crackers to the gooey caramel and crunchy Butterfinger bites—create a dessert that’s as fun to eat as it is delicious. Whether you’re making these for a party, as an after-school treat, or just because you’re craving something sweet, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit!

Ingredients

To make these decadent Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars, you’ll need:

  • 6 ½ sheets graham crackers
  • 2 cups mini marshmallows
  • 1 (11 oz) bag caramel bits (or unwrapped caramels)
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1 (10 oz) bag Butterfinger bites, coarsely chopped
  • 2 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, for drizzle

These simple ingredients combine to create a layered masterpiece of sweetness and crunch.

How to Make Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars

  1. Prepare the Pan: Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with aluminum foil, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal. Lightly coat the foil with nonstick cooking spray.
  2. Layer the Base: Arrange the graham crackers in a single layer on the bottom of the prepared pan. Break the crackers as needed to fit evenly.
  3. Add Marshmallows: Evenly distribute the mini marshmallows over the graham crackers, ensuring good coverage.
  4. Melt the Caramel: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the caramel bits and milk. Heat on high for 1 minute, then stir. Continue microwaving in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the caramel is fully melted and smooth.
  5. Spread the Caramel: Pour the melted caramel over the marshmallows, spreading it evenly with a spatula. The warmth of the caramel will slightly melt the marshmallows, allowing it to seep through to the graham crackers.
  6. Add Butterfinger Bites: Sprinkle the coarsely chopped Butterfinger pieces evenly over the caramel layer. Gently press them into the caramel-marshmallow mixture so they adhere.
  7. Drizzle the Chocolate: Melt the semi-sweet chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 30-second intervals and stirring until smooth. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the Butterfinger layer.
  8. Chill and Set: Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for about 1 hour, or until the layers are fully set.
  9. Slice and Serve: Use the foil overhangs to lift the bar out of the pan. Remove the foil, then slice into bars of your desired size. Serve and enjoy!

Helpful Tips

  • Use good-quality chocolate for the drizzle to enhance the overall flavor. Semi-sweet or dark chocolate works best to balance the sweetness of the caramel and marshmallows.
  • To make slicing easier, lightly grease your knife with nonstick spray or run it under warm water before cutting the bars.
  • For a fun twist, try adding a handful of chopped peanuts or pretzels to the Butterfinger layer for extra crunch and a salty-sweet balance.

Cooking Tips

For a chewier texture, use marshmallow fluff instead of mini marshmallows. This will create a gooier middle layer.

If you prefer softer graham crackers, let the bars sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the caramel and marshmallow to soften the cracker layer.

To melt caramel easily, add a teaspoon of butter along with the milk. This keeps the caramel smooth and prevents it from sticking to the bowl.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars as a standalone dessert, or pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly decadent treat. They also make a fantastic addition to dessert platters for parties, holiday gatherings, or bake sales. Arrange the bars on a decorative plate and drizzle with extra melted chocolate for a polished look.

Nutritional Information

While these bars are a treat, it’s always good to know what you’re indulging in. Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional content (per bar, assuming 16 bars):

  • Calories: 210
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 10mg
  • Sodium: 120mg
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 24g
  • Vitamin A: 2%
  • Calcium: 4%
  • Iron: 3%

These bars are best enjoyed in moderation as a sweet treat for special occasions.

Storage and Leftovers

Refrigerate: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Separate the layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freeze: If you’d like to keep them longer, freeze the bars in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Let them thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheat: These bars are best served cold, but if you prefer them slightly warm, you can microwave individual bars for 10-15 seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use different candy for the topping?
Absolutely! While Butterfinger adds a unique flavor, you can substitute it with chopped Snickers, Reese’s, or Heath bars.

What if I don’t have caramel bits?
Unwrapped caramel squares work perfectly as a substitute. Just chop them into smaller pieces to help them melt evenly.

Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes! These bars taste even better after resting in the fridge overnight, as the layers have more time to meld together.

Is there a way to make this recipe nut-free?
Butterfinger candy contains peanuts, so you’ll need to substitute it with a nut-free candy like Kit-Kat or Twix if allergies are a concern.

Related Recipes

If you love this recipe, try these other dessert ideas:

Conclusion

Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars are the perfect combination of sweet, gooey, and crunchy textures, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a batch of these decadent bars to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re making them for a party, gifting them to friends, or enjoying them with your family, these bars are guaranteed to impress. Try them today, and get ready to fall in love with every bite!

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