Description
Caramel chocolate crunch bars blend rich chocolate, buttery caramel, and crisp rice cereal into a mouthwatering dessert that melts hearts. Chocolate lovers will savor each delightful bite of this sweet and crunchy treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 3 cups crispy rice cereal (Rice Krispies)
- 1 cup crushed pretzels
- 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup granulated sugar
Dairy and Liquid Ingredients:
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or vegetable oil
Seasoning:
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare the crispy base by lining a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, ensuring smooth edges for easy removal. Thoroughly mix crispy rice cereal with crushed pretzels in a spacious mixing bowl, creating a crunchy foundation.
- Craft the golden caramel by melting sugar and butter together in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Gradually introduce heavy cream and a pinch of salt, whisking continuously to prevent burning. Allow the mixture to bubble and transform, stirring occasionally until it reaches a rich, amber consistency.
- Pour the molten caramel directly over the cereal-pretzel mixture, gently folding to ensure complete and even coating. Transfer the glossy mixture into the prepared baking dish, pressing firmly and evenly to create a compact layer. Allow the caramel to set and slightly cool for approximately 10-15 minutes.
- Melt chocolate chips and coconut oil using short microwave intervals, stirring between each session to achieve a silky, glossy texture. Carefully spread the liquid chocolate in a uniform layer across the caramel, creating a smooth, decadent topping.
- Chill the assembled bars in the refrigerator until the chocolate sets completely and becomes firm, typically requiring 1-2 hours. Once solidified, lift the entire creation from the pan using parchment edges and slice into elegant rectangles or bite-sized squares.
- Serve chilled for a crisp texture or allow to rest at room temperature for a softer, more indulgent experience. These bars can be stored in an airtight container for several days, maintaining their delightful crunch and rich flavor.
Notes
- Customize the base by swapping crispy rice cereal with gluten-free alternatives like puffed quinoa or rice puffs for dietary restrictions.
- Control caramel’s thickness by using a candy thermometer, aiming for 240-250°F for perfect consistency without burning.
- Experiment with chocolate varieties like dark, milk, or white chocolate to create unique flavor profiles that suit different taste preferences.
- Store bars in an airtight container between parchment layers to prevent sticking and maintain freshness for up to one week in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg