Irresistible Caramel Layer Bars: The Ultimate Gooey Chocolate Dessert Recipe
Caramel Layer Bars – rich and chocolate brownie bars filled with decadent chocolate chips and a luscious, gooey caramel layer. Once you try them, you won’t be able to resist their sweet allure! These easy-to-make bars are a nostalgic treat, perfect for any occasion and guaranteed to become a family favorite.
There’s something truly magical about desserts that evoke childhood memories. For many, these are the treats that were always present at family gatherings, birthday celebrations, or simply after a weeknight dinner. They hold a special place in our hearts, not just for their delicious taste, but for the comforting nostalgia they bring. My personal connection to such treasured recipes includes my mom’s chocolate cream cake, a birthday staple I still request, and the classic Fudge Nut bars that were a constant at my grandma’s house. Today, I’m thrilled to share another one of those cherished family recipes: these incredible Caramel Layer Bars, straight from my grandma’s kitchen.
A Taste of Childhood: Why These Caramel Layer Bars are Special
My grandma was known for a few signature desserts that were always available whenever we visited. In the autumn, her Apple Bars were a seasonal delight. But for the rest of the year, it was these Caramel Layer Bars that stole the show. They were an absolute sensation, quickly becoming a staple in our home as well. I remember making them frequently myself during my college days, often sharing them with roommates and friends who instantly fell in love with their irresistible combination of chocolate and caramel.
Even my husband, who generally isn’t a fan of chocolate, has always had a soft spot for these bars. He used to request them frequently when we were newlyweds, a testament to their universal appeal. That incredibly gooey caramel layer has a way of captivating almost anyone! These Caramel Layer Bars were one of the very first recipes I ever shared on my blog, and today, I’m delighted to reintroduce them with updated photos and renewed enthusiasm. They are truly too good not to share again and again.
The Anatomy of a Perfect Caramel Layer Bar
The Rich Brownie Base: Cake Mix Magic!
The foundation of these amazing bars is surprisingly simple: a box cake mix. While you could certainly opt for a homemade brownie recipe, sometimes you just have to trust in tradition and Grandma’s wisdom. Using a German chocolate cake mix not only makes the process incredibly easy but also yields a consistently delicious, moist, and flavorful base that perfectly complements the caramel. I highly recommend sticking with the German chocolate variety as specified in the original recipe. Other cake mixes might work, but be cautious with those that contain added chocolate chips or “pudding in the mix,” as they could potentially make the bars too moist or gooey to properly support the rich caramel layer.
The beauty of this shortcut is that it doesn’t compromise on flavor. The German chocolate cake mix provides a deep, rich chocolate flavor and a tender crumb, creating an ideal contrast to the sweetness of the caramel. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly extraordinary.
The Gooey Caramel Heart
The star of these bars is undoubtedly the irresistibly gooey caramel layer. Achieving that perfect, luscious texture is key. The caramel is melted with evaporated milk, creating a smooth, spreadable consistency that sets beautifully without becoming too hard. It’s important to let the melted caramel mixture cool slightly before spreading to ensure it doesn’t melt the chocolate chips too much, allowing them to maintain their distinct texture.
One thing to note is that the standard size of caramel bags has changed over the years. When this recipe was first developed, a 14 oz bag was common. Nowadays, 11 oz bags are more prevalent. You have a couple of options here: you can either stick with an 11 oz bag, and the bars will still be fantastic with a slightly thinner caramel layer, or you can purchase a second bag and use a portion of it to reach approximately 14 oz for a thicker, even more indulgent caramel experience. It’s not an exact science, so feel free to adjust based on your preference for caramel richness. However, using at least the 11 oz ensures a wonderfully gooey center that binds all the layers together.
The Chocolate Chip Sprinkle & Crumble Topping
No chocolate and caramel treat is complete without a generous helping of chocolate chips! These are sprinkled evenly over the partially baked brownie base, adding another layer of rich chocolate flavor and a delightful textural contrast. The final layer is made by crumbling the remaining portion of the cake mix dough over the caramel. This creates a slightly crispy, chewy topping that adds a rustic, homemade charm and further enhances the complex texture of these bars.
Mastering the Bake: Tips for Success
- Preparation is Key: Always start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Prepare your 13×9 inch baking pan by spraying it thoroughly with non-stick spray or lining it with parchment paper or foil for easy removal and cleanup.
- Partial Bake for the Base: The bottom layer of the brownie base gets a short initial bake of just 6 minutes. This ensures it’s firm enough to hold the caramel and chocolate chips without becoming overbaked once the other layers are added.
- Cooling the Caramel: After melting the caramels with evaporated milk, allow the mixture to cool slightly. Spreading hot caramel directly onto the chocolate chips can cause them to melt prematurely and create a mess. A slightly cooled, still-liquid caramel spreads much more easily and maintains the distinct layers.
- Even Spreading: When spreading the caramel mixture, do so gently and evenly over the chocolate chips. A rubber spatula works well for this. Then, distribute the remaining crumbled dough as uniformly as possible over the caramel.
- Complete Cooling is Crucial: This is perhaps the most important tip for beautifully formed bars. Allow the Caramel Layer Bars to cool completely – ideally for several hours or even overnight – before attempting to cut them. The caramel needs time to firm up and set. Rushing this step will result in a gooey, sticky mess that’s difficult to slice cleanly. If you’re short on time, you can chill them in the refrigerator to speed up the setting process.
Serving and Storage Suggestions
These Caramel Layer Bars are phenomenal on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with other treats. Serve them with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert, or enjoy them with a hot cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk for a comforting snack. They’re perfect for potlucks, parties, or simply as a special treat for your family.
To store, place the cooled and cut bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you want them to last longer, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to a week. For extended storage, these bars freeze exceptionally well. Wrap individual bars or small stacks tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw them at room temperature or gently warm them in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
Variations to Try
While the classic recipe is perfect as is, you can always experiment with delightful variations:
- Salted Caramel: Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the caramel layer before adding the final crumble. This enhances the caramel flavor and adds a gourmet touch.
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the brownie base mixture or sprinkle them over the chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor.
- Chocolate Variety: Instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips, try milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
- Toffee Bits: Mix in a handful of toffee bits with the chocolate chips for an added layer of buttery crunch.
These Caramel Layer Bars have graced countless tables and created many fond memories throughout the Midwest, and perhaps beyond. If you grew up with a similar treat, I hope this recipe brings back wonderful memories for you too. Their delightful blend of rich chocolate and sweet, gooey caramel makes them an unforgettable dessert that everyone will love. Give them a try – you won’t regret it!
Caramel Layer Bars
Erin Sellin
10 minutes
30 minutes
40 minutes
24
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Ingredients
- 14 oz caramels, unwrapped
- 2/3 cup evaporated milk
- 1 box German Chocolate Cake Mix
- 3/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/3 cup evaporated milk
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 C). Spray a 13×9 inch baking sheet with non-stick spray, or line with parchment paper or foil for easy removal.
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In a saucepan over low heat or in a microwave-safe bowl, melt the caramels and 2/3 cup evaporated milk together, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly while preparing the base.
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In a large bowl, combine the German Chocolate Cake Mix, 3/4 cup melted butter, and 1/3 cup evaporated milk. Mix until a thick dough forms. Press half of this mixture evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 6 minutes.
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Remove the pan from the oven. Sprinkle evenly with 1 cup chocolate chips over the partially baked base.
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Carefully spread the slightly cooled caramel mixture over the chocolate chips, ensuring an even layer.
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Crumble the remaining half of the cake mix dough evenly over the caramel layer.
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Return to the oven and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and set. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely on a wire rack before cutting and serving. This step is crucial for the caramel to set properly.
Nutrition
Calories: 177kcal |
Carbohydrates: 20g |
Protein: 2g |
Fat: 11g |
Saturated Fat: 6g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g |
Cholesterol: 21mg |
Sodium: 102mg |
Fiber: 1g |
Sugar: 17g
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Additional Info
Erin Sellin
10 minutes
30 minutes
40 minutes
Dessert Recipes
American
24
177
caramel layer bars
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