If you’re a fan of the classic Butterfinger candy bar, then you’re going to love these Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars! This irresistible dessert combines a buttery graham cracker crust, gooey caramel, and a crunchy Butterfinger layer, all topped with a rich chocolate coating. These bars are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or sharing at gatherings, potlucks, and parties. They’re easy to make and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars are the ultimate combination of textures and flavors. The crunchy graham cracker base pairs beautifully with the chewy caramel and the crispy, peanut-buttery Butterfinger pieces. The chocolate topping adds a rich and decadent finish that ties everything together. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat to indulge in or a delicious dessert to impress your guests, these bars are the perfect choice.
Plus, they’re simple to make with just a few basic ingredients and no special equipment required. With layers of buttery crust, sweet caramel, and crunchy Butterfinger, these bars are sure to disappear quickly!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars:
For the Base:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs: The foundation of the bars, providing a sweet and buttery crunch.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted: Binds the graham cracker crumbs together and adds rich flavor.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps bind the crust.
For the Caramel Layer:
- 1 cup caramel bits or soft caramels, unwrapped: For the gooey, sweet caramel layer.
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream: Helps soften the caramel for a smooth, pourable consistency.
For the Butterfinger Layer:
- 1 cup crushed Butterfinger candy bars (about 3-4 bars): Adds a crunchy, peanut-buttery layer of deliciousness.
For the Chocolate Topping:
- 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips: Forms the rich chocolate topping.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Helps the chocolate melt smoothly and adds shine.
Optional Garnish:
- Extra crushed Butterfinger pieces: For a little extra crunch and visual appeal.
How to Make Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars
Follow these simple steps to create these decadent bars that are perfect for any occasion:
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to make it easier to lift the bars out of the pan once they’re set.
In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even layer. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a glass to help pack the crumbs tightly.
Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly while you prepare the caramel layer.
Step 2: Prepare the Caramel Layer
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the caramel bits and heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the caramel is fully melted and smooth. This should take about 1-2 minutes, depending on your microwave. Be sure to stir well between each interval to prevent the caramel from burning.
Pour the melted caramel over the graham cracker crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. The caramel should cover the crust in a smooth, even layer.
Step 3: Add the Butterfinger Layer
Sprinkle the crushed Butterfinger candy bars evenly over the caramel layer. Press down gently with your hands or a spatula to help the candy adhere to the caramel. This will create a delicious, crunchy layer of Butterfinger pieces that will complement the gooey caramel perfectly.
Step 4: Prepare the Chocolate Topping
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth. This should take about 1-2 minutes. The butter helps the chocolate melt more smoothly and gives the topping a glossy finish.
Pour the melted chocolate over the Butterfinger layer, spreading it out evenly with a spatula to cover the entire surface. Make sure the chocolate layer is smooth and even.
Step 5: Set and Serve
Allow the bars to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then transfer them to the refrigerator to set completely, about 2 hours. Once the bars are set, lift them out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang and place them on a cutting board.
Use a sharp knife to cut the bars into squares or rectangles. For clean cuts, wipe the knife with a warm, damp cloth between cuts. If desired, sprinkle extra crushed Butterfinger pieces over the top before serving for an added crunch and visual appeal.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- 8×8-inch baking pan: For baking the bars.
- Parchment paper: For lining the pan and easy removal.
- Medium mixing bowl: For combining the crust ingredients.
- Microwave-safe bowls: For melting the caramel and chocolate.
- Spatula: For spreading the caramel and chocolate layers.
- Sharp knife: For cutting the bars.
