If you’re a fan of the dreamy pairing of chocolate, caramel, and that unmistakable Butterfinger crunch, these Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars are your fast track to dessert bliss. Imagine a golden graham cracker crust topped with ripples of gooey caramel, creamy chocolate chips, and pops of Butterfinger candy – all baked into glorious, easy-to-slice bars that are pure joy with every bite. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or an afternoon treat, these bars are as fun to make as they are to eat!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You won’t believe how simple this ingredient list is! Each component plays its own delicious part – from the buttery, crisp base to the sweet, crispy candy on top. Here’s what you’ll need for unforgettable Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars:
- Graham crackers: Crushed to a sandy crumb, they form a sturdy, toasty base for the bars.
- Unsalted butter: Melted butter holds the crust together and adds richness to every layer.
- Granulated sugar: Just a touch to sweeten and help caramelize the crust.
- Sweetened condensed milk: The secret to an ultra-gooey, irresistibly sweet layer that binds the bars.
- Caramel sauce or bits: Melted and swirled, this ingredient brings buttery caramel flavor that ties the bars together.
- Butterfinger candy bars: Crushed and scattered on top, they deliver that signature crispety-crunchety bite.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: For pops of melty chocolate flavor in every slice.
- Chopped peanuts (optional): If you love a little salty nutty crunch, these make a perfect finishing touch.
How to Make Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars
Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, letting the edges hang over for easy removal later. This step saves you from sticky messes and makes it simple to lift your finished Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars out in one go.
Step 2: Make the Graham Cracker Crust
In a medium bowl, stir together your crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and sugar until it resembles wet sand. Scoop the mixture into your lined pan and press down very firmly to form an even layer – you can use the bottom of a glass or your hands. This crust anchors all the deliciousness and adds perfect stability.
Step 3: Pour and Swirl the Sweet Layers
Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over your crust, smoothing with a spatula to ensure full coverage. Next, drizzle the melted caramel sauce all over, then use a knife to gently swirl the caramel into the condensed milk. This swirling step gives your Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars those signature ribbons of gooey flavor in every bite.
Step 4: Layer the Toppings
Sprinkle the crushed Butterfinger candy bars generously over the sticky surface. Add your chocolate chips, and if you’re using them, a handful of chopped peanuts. Don’t skimp here – these toppings create layers of texture and flavor that make these bars so craveable!
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pop your pan into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the edges are beautifully golden and the center looks set. The aromas are absolutely irresistible! Let the bars cool completely in the pan to ensure cutting perfect squares.
Step 6: Slice and Enjoy
Once completely cooled, tug gently on the parchment to lift your slab out. Cut into 16 even bars with a sharp knife. You’ll see all those dreamy layers: crunchy crust, fudgy middle, scattered chocolate, and Butterfinger on top. Dive in and try not to eat them all at once!
How to Serve Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars
Garnishes
A light dusting of extra crushed Butterfinger or a drizzle of melted chocolate on top really brings your Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars over the top. If you want a fancy finish, try a sprinkle of flaky sea salt to balance out the sweetness and add irresistible texture.
Side Dishes
These bars are rich, so pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream is heavenly. For a lighter contrast, serve with fresh berries or alongside a strong cup of coffee or chilled milk.
Creative Ways to Present
You can turn your Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars into a stunning dessert platter by cutting them into bite-sized squares and stacking them on a pretty cake stand. For parties, wrap individual bars in parchment and tie with baker’s twine for a sweet homemade gift.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay chewy and satisfying for up to five days, making them a great make-ahead option for parties or weekend snacking.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these later, just layer the cut bars between sheets of parchment in a freezer-safe container. They freeze beautifully for up to two months – thaw at room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Reheating
Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars are delicious straight from the container, but if you love a bit of gooeyness, zap a square in the microwave for 8 to 10 seconds. The chocolate softens, the caramel gets melty, and it’s pure comfort.
FAQs
Can I use a different candy bar instead of Butterfinger?
While Butterfinger bars are key for that uniquely crispy, peanutty crunch, you can absolutely swap in your favorite candy bar – think Heath, Snickers, or even chopped Reese’s for a fun twist on the classic bars.
What’s the best way to crush graham crackers?
Pop your graham crackers into a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin until finely ground, or blitz them in a food processor. Either way, you want a uniform, crumbly texture for the perfect base.
Can these be made gluten free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free graham crackers and double-check the labels on your other ingredients. You won’t miss any of the crunch or flavor – Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars are just as irresistible!
How do I keep the bars from sticking to the pan?
Be generous when lining your pan with parchment paper, letting the edges overhang for easy lifting. This tip makes removing and slicing your chilled bars totally mess-free.
Can I make Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars in advance?
Definitely! These bars actually get even better after a day in the fridge, as the flavors mingle. Just store tightly covered, and slice when you’re ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
Give these Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars a try the next time you want to wow friends or just treat yourself to something spectacular. They’re easy enough for a casual afternoon bake but impressive enough to steal the show at any gathering. Happy baking – and don’t forget to save yourself an extra piece!
Print
Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes plus cooling time
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the irresistible combination of caramel, Butterfinger candy bars, and chocolate with these decadent Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth!
Ingredients
Graham Cracker Crust:
- 1 sleeve (about 9) graham crackers, crushed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Filling:
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup caramel sauce or caramel bits, melted
- 1 cup crushed Butterfinger candy bars
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup chopped peanuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Prepare Crust: Mix crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and sugar. Press into pan.
- Add Fillings: Pour condensed milk over crust, drizzle with caramel, then add Butterfinger, chocolate chips, and peanuts.
- Bake: Bake for 25–30 minutes until set. Cool, then cut into bars.
Notes
- For extra crunch, chill bars before cutting.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
