Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars

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Introduction:

If you’re a fan of irresistible treats that combine creamy caramel, crunchy goodness, and the timeless flavor of Butterfinger candy bars, then you’re in for a real treat! Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars are the ultimate indulgence for anyone with a sweet tooth. In this article, we’ll walk you through a simple yet sensational recipe that will have you making these delectable bars in no time.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup of crushed Butterfinger candy bars
  • 1 cup of caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup of unsalted butter
  • 2 cups of crispy rice cereal
  • 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Base:
    • Begin by lining a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring that it hangs over the edges for easy removal later.
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the crispy rice cereal with half of the crushed Butterfinger candy bars. Set aside.
  2. Melt the Butter and Chocolate:
    • In a saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter and semi-sweet chocolate chips together, stirring constantly until smooth and well combined. Be careful not to burn the chocolate.
  3. Add Flavor:
    • Once melted, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. This will enhance the flavor of the chocolate mixture.
  4. Combine and Layer:
    • Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the cereal and Butterfinger mixture in the large mixing bowl. Stir until all the ingredients are evenly coated.
  5. Form the Bars:
    • Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Press down firmly to create a compact layer.
  6. Caramel Drizzle:
    • Warm the caramel sauce slightly in the microwave or on the stove until it is pourable. Drizzle the caramel sauce over the chocolate and cereal layer in the baking pan.
  7. Add Crunch:
    • Sprinkle the remaining crushed Butterfinger candy bars over the top of the caramel layer, pressing them gently into the mixture to ensure they stick.
  8. Chill and Serve:
    • Place the baking pan in the refrigerator and allow the bars to chill for at least 2 hours, or until set.
    • Once set, remove the bars from the pan using the parchment paper overhang and transfer them to a cutting board. Cut into squares or bars of your desired size.
  9. Enjoy!
    • Serve your Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars and watch as they disappear within moments! These indulgent treats are perfect for sharing with family and friends, or for satisfying your own sweet cravings.

Serving and Storage Tips for Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars:

Storage Tips:

  1. Room Temperature: These Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  2. Refrigeration: For longer shelf life, refrigerate the bars in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
  3. Freezing: If you want to store them for an extended period, these bars freeze well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be kept frozen for up to 2 months.

Serving Tips:

  1. Presentation: When serving, cut the bars into neat squares or rectangles for an appealing presentation.
  2. Room Temperature Serving: If stored in the refrigerator or freezer, allow the bars to come to room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the caramel to soften slightly and enhances the flavor and texture.
  3. Garnish: Before serving, consider garnishing with a sprinkle of crushed Butterfinger candy or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgent touch.
  4. Accompaniments: These bars pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful dessert experience.
  5. Portion Control: These bars are rich and decadent, so consider smaller portions if serving them as part of a larger dessert spread.

Variations of Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars:

  1. Nutty Twist: Add chopped nuts like peanuts, almonds, or pecans to the caramel layer for extra crunch and flavor. Sprinkle some additional nuts on top for garnish.
  2. Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some chocolate chips and drizzle them over the top of the bars for a chocolatey addition. You can also mix some melted chocolate into the caramel layer for a chocolate-caramel fusion.
  3. Peanut Butter Swirl: Swirl creamy peanut butter into the caramel layer before pouring it over the cereal base. This adds a delicious peanut butter flavor that complements the Butterfinger candy.
  4. Fruity Flavor: Mix dried fruit such as chopped dried apricots, cranberries, or cherries into the cereal base for a fruity twist. You can also sprinkle some dried fruit on top of the caramel layer for extra color and flavor.
  5. Coconut Crunch: Add shredded coconut to the cereal base or sprinkle it on top of the caramel layer for a tropical flair. Toasted coconut adds an extra layer of flavor and texture.
  6. Spice It Up: Incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the cereal base for a warm, cozy flavor profile. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick that contrasts nicely with the sweet caramel.
  7. Salted Caramel: Use salted caramel sauce or sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the caramel layer to enhance the sweet and salty contrast. The saltiness adds depth to the flavor profile of the bars.
  8. White Chocolate Drizzle: Instead of milk or dark chocolate, drizzle melted white chocolate over the bars for a sweeter, creamier finish. White chocolate pairs beautifully with the crunchy Butterfinger pieces.
  9. Cookie Crumble: Mix crushed cookies such as Oreos or graham crackers into the cereal base for added texture and flavor. The cookie crumbs add a delicious twist to the classic recipe.
  10. Coffee Infusion: Infuse the caramel layer with coffee or espresso for a rich, aromatic flavor. The coffee enhances the chocolate and caramel notes, creating a decadent treat for coffee lovers.

Conclusion:

With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a batch of Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars that are sure to impress. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, these irresistible bars are bound to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Give this recipe a try and prepare to delight in every delicious bite!

FAQ’s about Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars:

  1. Can I use a different type of cereal for the base?
    • Yes, you can substitute the crispy rice cereal with other options like corn flakes, granola, or crushed graham crackers for varied texture and flavor.
  2. Can I make these bars without using caramel?
    • While caramel adds a delicious chewy texture and flavor, you can try substituting it with a thick layer of melted chocolate or a combination of melted marshmallows and butter for a different twist.
  3. Can I make these bars gluten-free?
    • Yes, you can use gluten-free crispy rice cereal and ensure that all other ingredients, including the Butterfinger candy, are certified gluten-free.
  4. How do I prevent the bars from becoming too hard?
    • Avoid overcooking the caramel layer, and make sure not to compact the cereal mixture too firmly. Also, store them properly in an airtight container to retain moisture.
  5. Can I add other mix-ins to the cereal base?
    • Absolutely! Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit to the cereal base for added texture and flavor.
  6. Can I use a different type of candy instead of Butterfinger?
    • Yes, you can experiment with other candy bars like Snickers, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, or Heath bars for a unique flavor profile.
  7. How do I know when the caramel layer is ready to pour over the cereal base?
    • The caramel should be thickened and slightly golden in color. You can perform a soft ball stage test by dropping a small amount of caramel into a bowl of cold water; it should form a soft ball that holds its shape but is still pliable.
  8. Can I freeze these bars for later?
    • Yes, you can freeze Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store them in a freezer-safe container.
  9. Can I make these bars in advance for a party or event?
    • Absolutely! These bars are perfect for making ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer until you’re ready to serve.
  10. How can I cut the bars neatly without them crumbling?
    • For clean cuts, use a sharp knife warmed under hot water and dried before each cut. This helps to slice through the caramel layer without sticking, resulting in neat squares or rectangles.

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