Peanut-Caramel Bars With Chocolate | Kookmutsjes
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Indulge in these delectable Peanut-Caramel Bars, perfectly balanced with rich chocolate and a crunchy peanut topping.
These Peanut-Caramel Bars are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of caramel with the saltiness of peanuts, all enveloped in a layer of rich chocolate. Perfect for sharing at gatherings or as a personal indulgence!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy peanuts
- Chewy caramel layer that adds a delightful texture
- Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence
A Perfect Treat for Any Occasion
These Peanut-Caramel Bars are the ultimate treat, perfect for any occasion—from birthday parties to holiday gatherings. Their rich flavors and delightful crunch make them an instant favorite among friends and family. They also make great gifts when wrapped in a decorative box, ensuring your loved ones enjoy a sweet surprise.
The combination of chewy caramel and crunchy peanuts offers a satisfying texture that keeps you coming back for more. Whether you’re serving them at a potluck or enjoying them at home, these bars are sure to impress!
Customizing Your Peanut-Caramel Bars
One of the best features of this recipe is its versatility. Feel free to mix things up by adding your favorite ingredients. Consider incorporating crushed pretzels for a salty twist or swapping out peanuts for almonds or cashews to suit your taste. You can also experiment with different types of chocolate, such as dark or white chocolate, to achieve a unique flavor profile.
Another great idea is to add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the chocolate layer for a delightful contrast that enhances the overall taste. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to create a personalized treat that reflects your preferences.
Storing and Serving Suggestions
To ensure your Peanut-Caramel Bars stay fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them, which can extend their shelf life for up to two weeks. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.
When it comes to serving, these bars are perfect on their own, but you can elevate the experience by pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. This adds an extra layer of indulgence that will wow your guests!
Ingredients
For the Bars
- 1 cup unsalted peanuts, roughly chopped
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Mix all the ingredients well to create a cohesive bar mixture.
Instructions
Prepare the Base
In a large bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, cocoa powder, and melted butter. Mix until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9x9 inch baking dish.
Make the Caramel
In a saucepan, combine the brown sugar, corn syrup, and vanilla extract. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Once boiling, let it cook for 2 minutes without stirring.
Assemble the Bars
Pour the peanut caramel mixture over the graham cracker base and spread evenly. Allow it to cool for about 10 minutes.
Add the Chocolate Topping
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and vegetable oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until melted and smooth. Pour the melted chocolate over the cooled caramel layer and spread evenly.
Chill and Cut
Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours until fully set. Once set, cut into squares and serve.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Nutritional Benefits of Peanuts
Peanuts are not just delicious; they are also packed with nutritional benefits. They are a great source of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, magnesium, and potassium. These nutrients can help support muscle health, improve heart health, and provide sustained energy throughout the day.
Incorporating peanuts into your diet can also promote satiety, helping you feel full longer. This makes Peanut-Caramel Bars not just a sweet treat, but a guilt-free indulgence that offers health benefits as well.
The History of Caramel
Caramel has a rich history that dates back to the 17th century. Originally made by boiling sugar until it melts and turns golden brown, this sweet treat has evolved over time. Today, it is used in countless desserts and confections, adding a delightful sweetness and complexity to dishes.
The art of making caramel requires precision, as the cooking process can quickly turn from perfectly golden to burnt. Mastering this technique opens up a world of delicious possibilities, making caramel a beloved ingredient in many recipes, including these mouthwatering Peanut-Caramel Bars.
Pairing Suggestions
To complement the rich flavors of Peanut-Caramel Bars, consider pairing them with a variety of beverages. A robust cup of coffee or a smooth latte can enhance the chocolate flavors and provide a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the bars. For a refreshing option, try serving them with a glass of cold milk or even a milkshake.
If you're hosting a gathering, creating a dessert platter with these bars alongside fresh fruits, like strawberries or bananas, can offer a vibrant and colorful presentation. This not only elevates the dessert experience but also provides a refreshing balance to the richness of the bars.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use different nuts?
Yes, you can substitute peanuts with almonds or cashews if preferred.
→ How long do these bars last?
They can last up to a week if stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
→ Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs for a gluten-free version.
→ What can I substitute for corn syrup?
You can use honey or maple syrup as a substitute for corn syrup.
Peanut-Caramel Bars With Chocolate | Kookmutsjes
Indulge in these delectable Peanut-Caramel Bars, perfectly balanced with rich chocolate and a crunchy peanut topping.
Created by: Lucy Price
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 bars
What You'll Need
For the Bars
- 1 cup unsalted peanuts, roughly chopped
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, cocoa powder, and melted butter. Mix until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9x9 inch baking dish.
In a saucepan, combine the brown sugar, corn syrup, and vanilla extract. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Once boiling, let it cook for 2 minutes without stirring. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped peanuts.
Pour the peanut caramel mixture over the graham cracker base and spread evenly. Allow it to cool for about 10 minutes.
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and vegetable oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until melted and smooth. Pour the melted chocolate over the cooled caramel layer and spread evenly.
Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours until fully set. Once set, cut into squares and serve.
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