Peanut-Caramel Bars With Chocolate | Kookmutsjes
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Indulge in these decadent Peanut-Caramel Bars, perfectly layered with rich chocolate, providing a delightful treat for any occasion.
These Peanut-Caramel Bars have quickly become a beloved recipe in our household. With layers of crunchy peanuts, gooey caramel, and smooth chocolate, they offer a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy peanuts
- Chewy caramel that complements the chocolate perfectly
- Easy to make and perfect for sharing with friends and family
A Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion
These Peanut-Caramel Bars with Chocolate are not just a treat; they are a celebration of flavors and textures that will delight anyone who tries them. Whether you're hosting a party, attending a potluck, or simply craving something sweet, these bars are versatile enough to fit any occasion. Their combination of rich chocolate, chewy caramel, and crunchy peanuts creates a taste experience that’s hard to resist.
One of the best things about these bars is how easy they are to make. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a batch in no time. They are perfect for sharing with friends and family, making them a great choice for gatherings or as an after-school snack for kids. Plus, they are sure to impress!
The Secret to the Perfect Caramel
Achieving the perfect caramel layer is key to the success of these bars. It’s essential to cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, to prevent burning and ensure an even consistency. Look for a golden color, which indicates that the sugar has caramelized properly. This careful process results in a chewy caramel that complements the chocolate and peanuts beautifully.
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of sea salt to your caramel. This will enhance the sweetness and bring out the flavors of the peanuts, creating a balance that is utterly satisfying. Remember, patience is crucial when making caramel, so don’t rush the cooking process!
Storing and Serving Tips
Once your Peanut-Caramel Bars are set, storing them correctly is important to maintain their freshness and flavor. Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you’re planning to make them ahead of time, they also freeze well. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. They can last for up to three months in the freezer.
When you're ready to serve, simply cut the bars into squares and let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes for easier cutting. These bars are wonderful on their own, but they also pair well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an indulgent dessert.
Ingredients
For the Base
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
For the Caramel Layer
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup salted peanuts
For the Chocolate Topping
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Mix all the ingredients well to ensure even distribution before layering.
Instructions
Prepare the Base
In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well mixed. Press firmly into the bottom of a lined baking dish.
Make the Caramel Layer
In a saucepan, combine sugar, heavy cream, and butter. Cook over medium heat until it reaches a golden caramel color. Stir in the salted peanuts and pour over the prepared base.
Add the Chocolate Topping
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and vegetable oil. Microwave in 30-second increments until melted, stirring in between. Pour over the caramel layer and spread evenly.
Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours until set. Cut into squares and enjoy!
Be sure to store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
Nutritional Benefits of Peanuts
Peanuts are not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. They are a great source of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. Incorporating peanuts into your diet can help support heart health, promote weight management, and provide energy throughout the day. In these bars, they bring a satisfying crunch and a rich, nutty flavor that enhances the overall experience.
Additionally, peanuts are rich in antioxidants, which can help combat oxidative stress in the body. This makes these bars not just a treat but a potentially healthier dessert option when enjoyed in moderation. So, indulge in these Peanut-Caramel Bars guilt-free!
Customization Ideas
While this recipe is fantastic as is, feel free to get creative with your ingredients! You can swap out the salted peanuts for other nuts like almonds or cashews for a different flavor profile. Adding a sprinkle of flaked sea salt on top of the chocolate layer can also elevate the taste, providing a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the caramel.
For a more indulgent experience, consider mixing in some mini marshmallows or drizzling caramel sauce over the top before serving. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor these bars to your taste preferences or the ingredients you have on hand.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other nuts instead of peanuts?
Yes, you can substitute with almonds or cashews for a different flavor.
→ How long do these bars last?
They can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.
→ Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free graham crackers to make the base gluten-free.
→ Can I freeze these bars?
Absolutely! They can be frozen for up to three months. Just ensure they are well wrapped.
Peanut-Caramel Bars With Chocolate | Kookmutsjes
Indulge in these decadent Peanut-Caramel Bars, perfectly layered with rich chocolate, providing a delightful treat for any occasion.
Created by: Chloe Bennett
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 bars
What You'll Need
For the Base
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
For the Caramel Layer
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup salted peanuts
For the Chocolate Topping
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
How-To Steps
In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well mixed. Press firmly into the bottom of a lined baking dish.
In a saucepan, combine sugar, heavy cream, and butter. Cook over medium heat until it reaches a golden caramel color. Stir in the salted peanuts and pour over the prepared base.
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and vegetable oil. Microwave in 30-second increments until melted, stirring in between. Pour over the caramel layer and spread evenly.
Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours until set. Cut into squares and enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g