Butterfinger Caramel Bars

Have you ever wondered how a simple combination of ingredients can transform into a decadent treat that brings joy to every bite? If you’re a fan of sweet, crunchy, and gooey desserts, then Butterfinger Caramel Bars are a must-try! These bars combine the rich flavor of Butterfinger candy with a luscious caramel layer, creating a delightful experience that will leave your taste buds dancing. In this blog post, we’ll explore everything you need to know to make the perfect Butterfinger Caramel Bars, from ingredients to storage tips, ensuring your baking adventure is both enjoyable and successful.

Ingredients List

To create these mouthwatering Butterfinger Caramel Bars, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

• 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter: Provides richness and moisture.
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar: Sweetens the bars perfectly.
• 1 cup (220g) packed brown sugar: Adds depth and a hint of molasses flavor.
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour: The base for the bars.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the bars rise.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors.
• 1 cup (240ml) sweetened condensed milk: Creates a creamy caramel layer.
• 1 cup (150g) Butterfinger candy bars, chopped: The star of the show!
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a lovely aroma and flavor.

Optional Substitutions:

• Butter: You can use coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
• Sugar: Substitute with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index.
• Flour: Whole wheat flour can be used for added fiber.
• Butterfinger: Try using other chocolate bars like Snickers or Milky Way for a different flavor profile.

Timing

Preparing these Butterfinger Caramel Bars is a breeze! Here’s a breakdown of the time you’ll need:

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

This total time is approximately 20% less than the average dessert recipe, making it a quick and satisfying option for any occasion.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Butterfinger Caramel Bars bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden-brown color.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. This step is crucial to prevent sticking and ensure a smooth serving experience.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This mixture will form the base of your bars, so ensure it’s well combined.

Step 4: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In another bowl, beat the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, resulting in a tender texture.

Step 5: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Mix in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. This will add moisture and flavor to your bars.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense bars.

Step 7: Fold in the Butterfinger

Gently fold in the chopped Butterfinger candy bars. The chunks will create delightful pockets of chocolatey goodness throughout the bars.

Step 8: Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool and Slice

Allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice them into squares or rectangles.

Step 10: Enjoy!

Serve your Butterfinger Caramel Bars as a delightful dessert or snack. They pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.

Nutritional Information

Understanding the nutritional content of your Butterfinger Caramel Bars can help you enjoy them mindfully. Here’s a breakdown per serving (1 bar):

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient substitutions.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you’re looking to enjoy Butterfinger Caramel Bars with a healthier twist, consider these modifications:

• Use Almond Flour: Swap out all-purpose flour for almond flour to add healthy fats and protein.
• Reduce Sugar: Use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener to lower the sugar content.
• Add Nuts: Incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch and healthy fats.
• Dark Chocolate: Replace Butterfinger with dark chocolate for a richer flavor and added antioxidants.

These alternatives not only maintain the deliciousness of the original recipe but also cater to various dietary needs.

Serving Suggestions

Butterfinger Caramel Bars are versatile and can be served in numerous delightful ways:

• À la Mode: Top each bar with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of chocolate syrup for an indulgent dessert.
• With Coffee: Pair the bars with a cup of coffee or espresso for a delightful afternoon treat.
• Gift Idea: Wrap the bars in decorative cellophane and give them as gifts during holidays or special occasions.

Feel free to get creative with your serving ideas—these bars are sure to impress!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, but avoiding these common mistakes will help ensure your Butterfinger Caramel Bars turn out perfectly:

• Overmixing the Batter: This can lead to dense bars. Mix until just combined.
• Not Greasing the Pan: Make sure to grease or line your pan to prevent sticking.
• Skipping the Cooling Step: Allowing the bars to cool completely makes them easier to slice and enhances their texture.
• Using Old Ingredients: Check the freshness of your baking powder and flour to ensure the best results.

By being mindful of these pitfalls, you can enjoy a successful baking experience.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To keep your Butterfinger Caramel Bars fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:

• Room Temperature: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Refrigeration: For longer storage, refrigerate the bars for up to 2 weeks. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving.
• Freezing: These bars freeze well! Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before enjoying.

Conclusion

In summary, Butterfinger Caramel Bars are a delightful treat that combines rich flavors and textures, making them a perfect addition to any dessert table. With easy-to-follow instructions and tips for healthier alternatives, you can enjoy these bars guilt-free. We invite you to try this recipe, share your feedback in the comments, and subscribe for more delicious updates!

FAQs

Q1: Can I make these bars gluten-free?

A1: Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these bars gluten-free.

Q2: How can I make these bars vegan?

A2: Use coconut oil instead of butter, and replace sweetened condensed milk with a vegan alternative.

Q3: What can I use instead of Butterfinger?

A3: You can use any chocolate candy bar of your choice, such as Snickers, Milky Way, or even homemade chocolate chunks.

Q4: Can I add other ingredients?

A4: Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts, dried fruits, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top for added flavor.

Q5: How do I know when the bars are done baking?

A5: The bars are done when the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Butterfinger Caramel Bars

Yield: 16 bars

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Additional Time: 1 hour

Total Time: 1 hour

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Ingredients

• 1 box yellow cake mix
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 cup caramel bits or soft caramels (melted with 2 tbsp milk)
• 1 1/2 cups crushed Butterfinger candy bars (about 4–5 fun-size bars)
• 1 cup semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips
• Optional: flaky salt for topping

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
   
2. Make the crust layer:
   In a bowl, mix cake mix, melted butter, and egg until a thick dough forms.
   Press evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
   
3. Bake base layer for 10–12 minutes. Remove from oven but keep oven on.
   
4. Add fillings:
   Pour sweetened condensed milk evenly over the crust.
   Drizzle melted caramel over that. Sprinkle with Butterfinger pieces and chocolate chips.
   
5. Return to oven and bake another 12–15 minutes until bubbly and golden at the edges.
   
6. Cool completely, then chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour before cutting into bars.
   

Notes

• Use parchment for easy removal and clean slicing.
  
• 
  For a richer caramel layer, use homemade salted caramel sauce.
  
• 
  Store in an airtight container at room temp (3 days) or chilled (up to 1 week).