Peanut-Caramel Bars With Chocolate | Kookmutsjes
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Delight in the rich and crunchy flavors of Peanut-Caramel Bars, a perfect treat for any sweet tooth!
These Peanut-Caramel Bars are a delicious combination of crunchy peanuts, rich caramel, and smooth chocolate. Perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a personal treat!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Irresistibly crunchy peanut texture combined with smooth caramel
- Decadent chocolate layer that adds a touch of luxury
- Perfect for parties, gifts, or a cozy night in
A Crunchy Delight
Peanut-Caramel Bars are a delightful fusion of textures and flavors that will make your taste buds dance. The combination of crunchy roasted peanuts and the smooth, buttery caramel creates an irresistible treat. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch that complements the luxurious sweetness of the caramel, making these bars a perfect indulgence for any occasion.
The use of graham cracker crumbs in the base adds an extra layer of flavor and a hint of nostalgia, reminiscent of classic desserts. This recipe not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also brings a sense of warmth and comfort, making it ideal for sharing with family and friends.
The Magic of Caramel
Caramel is a magical ingredient that transforms simple desserts into spectacular treats. In this recipe, the caramel layer is made from scratch, ensuring a rich and buttery flavor that store-bought versions simply can't match. By cooking the sugar until it reaches the perfect consistency, you achieve a smooth and glossy finish that coats the peanuts beautifully.
This homemade caramel layer not only enhances the overall taste but also elevates the presentation of your Peanut-Caramel Bars. The glossy finish adds a professional touch that will impress your guests and make these bars a standout addition to any dessert table.
Decadent Chocolate Finish
To top off this delicious treat, a layer of dark chocolate creates a luxurious finish that ties all the flavors together. The slight bitterness of the dark chocolate contrasts perfectly with the sweetness of the caramel, adding depth to every bite. This layered approach not only makes the bars visually appealing but also ensures a complex flavor profile that keeps you coming back for more.
Melted chocolate drizzled over the caramel layer not only enhances the bars' taste but also adds a beautiful sheen. The chocolate topping solidifies as it cools, providing a satisfying snap when you take a bite. This finishing touch makes these bars not just a treat, but a true dessert experience.
Ingredients
For the Base
- 1 cup roasted peanuts, chopped
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
For the Caramel Layer
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Chocolate Topping
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
Ensure all ingredients are ready before starting the preparation.
Preparation Steps
Prepare the Base
In a mixing bowl, combine chopped peanuts, graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and brown sugar. Mix until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9x9 inch baking dish.
Make the Caramel
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine granulated sugar, butter, cream, and salt. Stir continuously until the mixture comes to a boil. Once boiling, stop stirring and let it boil for 5 minutes without disturbing.
Combine Layers
Pour the caramel over the peanut base and spread it evenly. Allow it to cool for about 10 minutes.
Add Chocolate Topping
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips with coconut oil in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth. Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel layer and spread evenly.
Chill and Cut
Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours until set. Once set, cut into bars and enjoy!
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Storage Tips
To keep your Peanut-Caramel Bars fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you prefer a longer shelf life, you can refrigerate them, where they will stay good for up to two weeks. Just be sure to allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
If you want to make these bars ahead of time for a special occasion, you can also freeze them. Wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.
Serving Suggestions
These Peanut-Caramel Bars are versatile and can be served in various ways. For a more elegant presentation, consider cutting them into smaller squares and serving them on a platter with a drizzle of melted chocolate on top. Adding a sprinkle of sea salt can also enhance the flavors and provide a beautiful contrast to the sweetness.
Pair your bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience. The creaminess of the ice cream complements the crunchy bars perfectly, creating a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Whether for a cozy night in or a party, these bars are sure to impress!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use different nuts?
Yes, you can substitute peanuts with almonds or cashews for a different flavor.
→ How do I store the bars?
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze these bars?
Absolutely! Wrap the bars individually and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months.
→ What if I don't have graham cracker crumbs?
You can make your own by crushing plain biscuits or use digestive biscuits instead.
Peanut-Caramel Bars With Chocolate | Kookmutsjes
Delight in the rich and crunchy flavors of Peanut-Caramel Bars, a perfect treat for any sweet tooth!
Created by: Summer Blake
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 bars
What You'll Need
For the Base
- 1 cup roasted peanuts, chopped
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
For the Caramel Layer
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Chocolate Topping
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
How-To Steps
In a mixing bowl, combine chopped peanuts, graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and brown sugar. Mix until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9x9 inch baking dish.
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine granulated sugar, butter, cream, and salt. Stir continuously until the mixture comes to a boil. Once boiling, stop stirring and let it boil for 5 minutes without disturbing.
Pour the caramel over the peanut base and spread it evenly. Allow it to cool for about 10 minutes.
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips with coconut oil in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth. Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel layer and spread evenly.
Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours until set. Once set, cut into bars and enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g