Name: Caramel Crush Bars Dessert
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups quick oats; 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups brown sugar; 1 1/4 cups butter; 1/4 cup butter (for caramel filling); 1 cup brown sugar (for caramel filling); 1/4 cup milk; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 2 tbsp flour (for caramel filling)

Indulging in a sweet dessert isn’t just a guilty pleasure; it can be an experience that brings joy and satisfaction after a meal. The Caramel Crush Bars Dessert is a delightful way to surprise your taste buds with a tasty combination of gooey caramel, crunchy oats, and a buttery crust. These bars are not only incredibly satisfying but also surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re whipping them up for a family gathering, a potluck, or just for yourself, they promise to bring smiles and sweet memories.

The beauty of caramel crush bars lies in their layers. The oat and flour crust provides the perfect base for a creamy caramel filling that will make you look forward to each bite. As the caramel bubbled gently on the stovetop, it gives off a warm and inviting aroma that fills your kitchen, raising anticipation for what’s to come. Plus, their gooey sweetness and crunchy topping make these bars a hit among both kids and adults, providing a simple yet indulgent treat that anyone can enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Caramel Crush Bars Dessert

If you’re still on the fence about trying these caramel crush bars, here are just a few reasons to dive right in:

Easy to make: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros.
Endless appeal: These bars are great for any occasion, whether it’s a brunch, dessert table, or movie night.
Customizable: Try adding your favorite nuts or chocolate chips for an extra crunch and flavor.
Deliciously indulgent: The gooey caramel mixed with the crunchy topping hits all the right notes on your palate.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before we begin creating our caramel crush bars, it’s essential to prepare both your kitchen space and tools to ensure a smooth cooking process. Start by gathering all the ingredients listed above so that you have everything ready to work with. It’s a good idea to preheat your oven to 325ºF to save time while preparing the crust. You’ll need a 9×13 inch baking pan, grease it or line it with parchment paper for easier removal of the bars later. Additionally, having a saucepan on hand will enable you to seamlessly prepare the caramel filling without any hassle. A mixing bowl for the crust ingredients and a rubber spatula for easy mixing will also be helpful.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups quick oats
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups brown sugar
1 1/4 cups butter
1/4 cup butter (for caramel filling)
1 cup brown sugar (for caramel filling)
1/4 cup milk
2 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp flour (for caramel filling)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by melting 1 1/4 cups of butter in a microwave or on the stovetop until it’s completely melted. In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter with quick oats, 2 1/4 cups of flour, and 1 1/2 cups of brown sugar. This mixture will form the deliciously crumbly crust for your bars. Once combined, press approximately two-thirds of this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking pan. This sturdy base will hold everything together once baked, so ensure it’s compact.

Step 2: Bake the Crust

Preheat your oven to 325ºF and pop the pan with your crust mixture into the oven. Bake for 10 minutes; this brief baking time will set the crust nicely without overcooking it. Once done, allow the crust to cool sufficiently while you prepare the caramel filling.

Step 3: Make the Caramel Filling

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 1/4 cup of butter. Stir in 1 cup of brown sugar, mixing until it’s completely smooth, which should take about a minute. Gradually add in the 1/4 cup of milk, 2 tsp of vanilla extract, and 2 tbsp of flour, stirring constantly. Be patient as you heat this mixture — it should come to a slow boil and thicken after about 3 minutes. Continuing to stir ensures a smooth caramel texture without any lumps.

Step 4: Assemble and Final Bake

Once the crust is cool to the touch, pour the luscious caramel filling evenly over the baked crust, spreading it out flat with a spatula. Now take the remaining one-third of the reserved crust mixture and sprinkle it generously over the caramel layer. This creates a wonderful contrast in texture. Next, lower the oven temperature to 300ºF and bake the assembled bars for an additional 20 minutes. Although the mixture may seem runny when you take it out, rest assured that it will solidify as it cools completely.

Variations

Protein: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for an added richness and texture.
Vegetables: Incorporate shredded coconut into the crust for a delightful tropical twist.
Spices: Sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor enhancement.

Cooking Notes

Ensure that the butter is fully melted before mixing; this helps create a uniform texture.
If you prefer a thicker crust, you can increase the crust ingredients by 50%.
Let the bars cool completely before cutting; this will make slicing much easier.
For added flavor, consider using brown butter instead of regular butter for the crust.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for an extra special treat.
Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for some added elegance.

Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Freeze individual bars wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months for a grab-and-go treat.
Experiment with different flavored extracts, such as almond or hazelnut, in place of vanilla.
When slicing, use a sharp knife and clean it between cuts for neat bars.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 330 per serving
Protein: 3g
Sodium: 150mg

FAQs

What are caramel crush bars?

Caramel crush bars are a delicious dessert made with a buttery oat crust, gooey caramel filling, and a crumbly topping. They offer a delightful mix of textures and flavors.

Can I make caramel crush bars ahead of time?

Yes, these bars can be made ahead of time and stored. They taste great chilled and can be kept for 3 days at room temperature or frozen for later enjoyment.

How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftover bars in an airtight container. If they seem sticky, place parchment paper between layers.

What variations can I try with this recipe?

You can add different nuts, spices, or even dried fruits to customize the flavor and texture of your caramel crush bars.

Conclusion

The Caramel Crush Bars Dessert is not just a treat; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that can be easily crafted in your kitchen. The gooey caramel combined with the crunchy oat topping creates a balance that you simply cannot resist. As you explore the variations and suggestions I’ve provided, don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own! I invite you to share your experiences, variations, or any tips you discover along the way. Try these bars today, and turn those moments of baking into unforgettable memories!