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These Butterfinger Caramel Bars are the perfect quick treat when you want something indulgent without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of buttery graham cracker layers, gooey marshmallows, smooth caramel, and crunchy Butterfinger bits is simply irresistible and sure to satisfy any sweet tooth craving in just a little over 10 minutes of prep time.
I first made these for a last-minute family gathering and now they are a staple dessert request for every occasion. The blend of textures and flavors always brings smiles around the table.
Ingredients
- Graham Crackers: provide a sturdy yet buttery base digestive biscuits work well if graham crackers aren’t available
- Mini Marshmallows: melt perfectly to create a fluffy, gooey layer if using large marshmallows chop them into small bits
- Caramel Bits: melt easily for a smooth caramel topping unwrapped caramels can be substituted with equally delicious results
- Butterfinger Bites: add a crunchy, peanut butter flavor burst using regular bars chopped up also works fine
- Milk: helps melt the caramel smoothly any type of milk will do but whole milk makes it richer
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sculpt the Base:
- Line a 9 by 9 inch pan with foil, leaving some overhang to easily lift the bars out later. Arrange graham crackers evenly along the bottom to form a solid base layer.
- Cover with Marshmallows:
- Sprinkle mini marshmallows generously over the graham cracker layer, ensuring good coverage to achieve the perfect gooey texture.
- Melt the Caramel:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the caramel bits with a splash of milk. Microwave for about one minute, then stir carefully until the caramel mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Top with Caramel:
- Pour the melted caramel gently over the marshmallows and graham crackers, making sure to cover the surface evenly without disturbing the layers too much.
- Add the Crunch:
- Chop the Butterfinger bars into bite-sized pieces and gently press them into the warm caramel layer so they stick well and stay in place as the bars chill.
- Optional Chocolate Drizzle:
- For an extra touch of indulgence, melt some chocolate and drizzle it over the top before placing the bars in the fridge.
- Chill and Serve:
- Place the pan in the refrigerator and allow the bars to firm up for 1 to 2 hours. Use the foil overhang to lift the entire slab out and cut into squares for serving.
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Storage Tips
Store the bars covered in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the caramel firm and the layers intact. They will stay delicious for up to five days. For longer storage, wrap them tightly and freeze for up to two months, thawing in the fridge before serving.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you cannot find caramel bits you can melt wrapped caramel candies with a splash of cream or milk. Peanut butter cups or chopped toffee bars can replace the Butterfinger bites for a different flavor twist. Gluten-free graham crackers work great to make these bars gluten-free without sacrificing texture.
Serving Suggestions
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These bars shine on their own but are divine served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of hot fudge. You can also sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top after adding the caramel for a sophisticated sweet and salty bite.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute graham crackers?
Yes, digestive biscuits can be used as a similar buttery base if graham crackers are unavailable.
- → What type of marshmallows work best?
Mini marshmallows are ideal for even coverage and melting, but chopped regular marshmallows also work well.
- → How do I melt the caramel without burning it?
Microwave the caramel bits with a splash of milk for about a minute, stirring until smooth to prevent scorching.
- → Can I add other toppings?
Yes, melting some chocolate to drizzle over the bars before chilling adds extra richness and texture.
- → How long should the bars chill?
Allow 1 to 2 hours in the refrigerator to let the caramel set firmly before slicing.
- → What’s a good serving suggestion?
Serving these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream enhances the creamy and crunchy contrast beautifully.