Imagine sinking your teeth into a heavenly treat that combines the rich, creamy sweetness of white chocolate with the luxurious, velvety smoothness of caramel. These White Chocolate Caramel Bars are not just a dessert - they're a culinary experience that will transport you to dessert paradise! Whether you're looking to impress guests, treat yourself to a moment of pure bliss, or simply satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe is about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 16 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1 cup caramel bits
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess paper to hang over the sides for easy removal.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter. Mix thoroughly until the crumbs are completely moistened and resemble wet sand.
- Press the graham cracker mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Use the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed measuring cup to create a compact, smooth base.
- Bake the graham cracker crust for 10 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine caramel bits and sweetened condensed milk. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.
- Pour the caramel mixture evenly over the baked graham cracker crust. If using nuts, sprinkle them over the caramel layer.
- Melt white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 20-second intervals and stirring between each to prevent burning.
- Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the caramel layer, creating a marbled effect by gently swirling with a knife.
- Refrigerate the bars for 1-2 hours until completely set and firm.
- Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the entire dessert out of the pan and cut into 16 equal squares.
- Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Allow to sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving for the best texture.
Tips
- Use fresh ingredients: Ensure your white chocolate chips and caramel bits are fresh for the best flavor and melting consistency.
- Watch the microwave carefully: When melting chocolate and caramel, use short intervals and stir frequently to prevent burning.
- Create a perfect crust: Press the graham cracker base firmly and evenly for a solid foundation that holds together beautifully.
- Chill thoroughly: Allow the bars to set completely in the refrigerator for clean, neat cutting and the best texture.
- Room temperature serving: Let the bars sit out for 10 minutes before serving to soften slightly and enhance the flavors.
- Optional nutty twist: The chopped nuts are optional but add a delightful crunch and depth of flavor if you choose to include them.
- Storage tip: Keep these bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days - if they last that long!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 157kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 15mg
