Caramel Chocolate Crunch Bars

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These bars are the kind of dessert that disappears fast—whether you’re bringing them to a party, sneaking a late-night bite, or serving them with coffee. They’re made with simple pantry ingredients and come together with no baking required. Layers of golden caramel, silky chocolate, and crispy cereal make each bite a delicious contrast of textures.

Ingredients:

For the Base:

  • 2 cups crispy rice cereal (like Rice Krispies)

  • 1 cup crushed graham crackers (about 8 squares)

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

  • 1/4 cup brown sugar

  • Pinch of salt

For the Caramel Layer:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter

  • 1/2 cup brown sugar

  • 1/4 cup light corn syrup (or golden syrup)

  • 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Crunch Topping:

  • 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips

  • 1 tbsp butter or coconut oil (optional, for smoother chocolate)

  • 1 cup crispy rice cereal

  • Instructions:

    1. Prepare the Pan:

      • Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or foil. Lightly grease it.

    2. Make the Base:

      • In a large bowl, combine rice cereal, crushed graham crackers, melted butter, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt.

      • Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Chill in the fridge while making the caramel.

    3. Make the Caramel Layer:

      • In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add brown sugar, corn syrup, and sweetened condensed milk. Stir constantly and bring to a gentle boil.

      • Cook for about 5–7 minutes, until it thickens slightly and becomes golden.

      • Remove from heat, stir in vanilla, and pour over the chilled base. Let it cool for 10–15 minutes, then chill until set.

    4. Make the Chocolate Crunch Topping:

      • Melt chocolate chips with butter/coconut oil (if using) in the microwave or over a double boiler until smooth.

      • Stir in rice cereal gently until fully coated.

      • Spread evenly over the caramel layer.

    5. Chill and Slice:

      • Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until completely set.

      • Use a sharp knife to slice into bars. Store in the fridge in an airtight container.

      • Tips:
        For a salted caramel twist, sprinkle flaky sea salt on top before chilling.
        You can swap peanut butter with almond or cashew butter for a different flavor.

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