Oh my gosh, let me tell you about these Butterfinger Caramel Bars. They’ve become one of my absolute go-to recipes, and not just because they taste like a dream come true! There’s something about the combination of crunchy peanut butter, creamy caramel, and a chocolate drizzle that sends my taste buds into a joyful frenzy. I often make these for family gatherings, and it’s always a hit! There’s never a leftover in sight, and I’m usually asked to whip up another batch right away.
The best part? They’re super simple to make and require only a handful of ingredients. Plus, they evoke sweet memories of my childhood when I would savor Butterfinger candy bars while watching my favorite Saturday morning cartoons. These bars are like a nostalgic trip down memory lane, but with a delightful homemade twist. So roll up your sleeves with me, and let’s dive into making these scrumptious Butterfinger Caramel Bars!
What’s in Butterfinger Caramel Bars?
Peanut Butter: The star of the show! I use creamy peanut butter, but feel free to go crunchy for more texture. Skippy or Jif are my personal faves.
Butter: A must-have for that rich, buttery flavor. I usually opt for unsalted butter since it allows for better control over the saltiness.
Granulated Sugar: This sweetens the mixture and helps create that nicely caramelized texture. Go for organic if you’re feeling fancy!
Brown Sugar: This gives the bars a nice richness and moisture. Don’t skip it; it adds depth!
Caramel Sauce: Store-bought or homemade, I won’t judge! I love the ease of drizzling it from a bottle when I’m in a rush.
Chocolate Chips: Dark or milk chocolate are both delicious options for drizzling over the top!
Is Butterfinger Caramel Bars Good for You?
Okay, let’s be real; these bars are not exactly health food! But every now and then, it’s nice to indulge, right? Here’s a little breakdown:
Peanut Butter: It’s heart-healthy and contains protein, but the calories can add up fast, so moderation is key.
Sugars: Both granulated and brown sugars contribute delicious sweetness, but they add significant calories. Balancing these treats within a broader healthy eating pattern is the way to go!
Caramel Sauce: This adds a lot of sugar, so if you’re watching your sugar intake, consider using it sparingly or making a homemade version with fewer additives.
Ingredients
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1 cup caramel sauce (plus more for drizzling!)
– 1 cup chocolate chips
– Serves: 12 delicious bars
How to Make Butterfinger Caramel Bars?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and both sugars (granulated and brown). Beat them together until creamy and fluffy.
3. Add the peanut butter to the mixture and mix until well blended.
4. Pour in the caramel sauce and mix until everything is thoroughly combined.
5. Spread the mixture evenly into the greased baking pan, smoothing it out with a spatula.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. You want it to be golden brown but not overcooked.
7. Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool for about 15 minutes.
8. While still warm, drizzle chocolate chips over the top. Allow them to melt a bit, and then spread them evenly over the caramel bars.
9. Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing into squares. Drizzle more caramel sauce on top if you’re feeling wild!
Sweet Variations and Serving Suggestions!
– To switch things up, toss in some chopped nuts or your favorite candy pieces for extra crunch.
– These bars also pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert!
– If you have leftovers (which I doubt you will!), store them in an airtight container for up to a week.
I really hope you give these Butterfinger Caramel Bars a try! They’re perfect for gatherings, movie nights, or even just a cozy evening at home on the couch. Trust me, once you take that first blissful bite, you’ll be hooked. And don’t forget to let me know how they turn out for you! Happy baking!
