Chewy Nutty Squirrel Bars

Introduction:

Chewy Nutty Squirrel Bars are a decadent treat featuring a buttery chocolate crust, a luscious caramel layer, and a crunchy nut topping. These bars offer a delightful combination of rich flavors and textures, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

Ingredients

• 2 sticks unsalted butter, softened and divided
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 ¼ cup flour
• ⅓ cup cocoa powder
• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup caramel baking chips
• ½ cup chopped almonds, pecans, or walnuts
• 4 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon salt

Directions

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
   • Set aside 2 tablespoons of the softened butter for later use in the caramel layer.
2. Make the Crust:
   • In a large bowl, beat together 1 cup powdered sugar and 1 ¾ sticks of softened butter until fluffy and light.
   • Gradually mix in ⅓ cup cocoa powder and 1 ¼ cups flour until well combined. The mixture will form a thick dough.
   • Transfer the dough to the prepared baking dish and press it evenly into the bottom.
   • Bake for 15 minutes, or until the crust is set and starting to firm up.
3. Prepare the Caramel Layer:
   • In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the reserved 2 tablespoons of butter with the sweetened condensed milk. Stir constantly until the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and stir in 2 teaspoons vanilla extract.
   • Pour the caramel sauce over the baked crust and spread it evenly.
   • Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the caramel is golden brown and bubbly.
4. Prepare the Nut Topping:
   • Toast ½ cup of chopped almonds, pecans, or walnuts in a dry pan over medium heat until fragrant. Let them cool slightly before chopping roughly.
   • Melt 1 cup caramel baking chips with 4 tablespoons of heavy cream in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring each time until smooth and creamy.
   • Fold the toasted nuts and 1 teaspoon salt into the caramel sauce.
   • Pour and spread the nutty caramel mixture evenly over the baked crust and caramel layer.
5. Cool and Cut:
   • Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting. This helps the layers set and makes cutting easier.
   • Cut into squares and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 45-50 minutes (plus cooling time)
• Yield: 24 squares

Variations

• Nuts: Substitute with your favorite nuts like cashews or macadamia nuts.
• Add-ins: Incorporate chocolate chips or toffee bits into the caramel layer for added richness.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
• Reheating: If desired, warm individual squares in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to soften slightly before serving.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
   • Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to compensate.
2. Can I use a different type of chocolate for the crust?
   • Yes, you can use dark or milk chocolate cocoa powder for a different flavor.
3. What can I use instead of caramel baking chips?
   • You can use caramel sauce as a substitute, but it may be a bit runnier.
4. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
   • Yes, these bars can be made a few days in advance and stored properly.
5. How can I ensure the bars cut neatly?
   • Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to ensure clean slices.
6. Can I freeze these bars?
   • Yes, you can freeze the bars for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.
7. Can I use different types of nuts?
   • Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite nuts or nut blends.
8. What if I don’t have parchment paper?
   • You can lightly grease the baking dish if you don’t have parchment paper.
9. How can I make these bars less sweet?
   • Reduce the amount of caramel chips or use a lower sugar content in the crust.
10. Can I add fruit to these bars?
    • Adding dried fruits like raisins or cranberries can give a nice twist.

Conclusion

Chewy Nutty Squirrel Bars are a delicious and indulgent treat that combines a rich chocolate crust with a creamy caramel topping and crunchy nuts. They’re perfect for a sweet snack or a special dessert. With easy preparation and a delightful mix of flavors, these bars are sure to be a hit at any gathering or as a homemade treat for yourself. Enjoy the chewy, nutty goodness in every bite!

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