If you have a sweet tooth that craves a perfect blend of crunchy, gooey, and chocolatey, then these Butterfinger Caramel Bars are about to become your new obsession. Imagine crispy graham crackers layered with fluffy marshmallows, topped with luscious melted caramel, and crowned with plenty of buttery Butterfinger pieces and a drizzle of rich chocolate. Each bite brings a dreamy texture and flavor combination that’s both nostalgic and delightfully indulgent. Trust me, making Butterfinger Caramel Bars at home is easier—and more satisfying—than you might think, turning simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing treat you’ll want to make over and over.

Butterfinger Caramel Bars Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple but essential ingredients is your first step towards magic. Each one plays a key role: the graham crackers give a sturdy, crunchy base, marshmallows add that melty, pillowy goodness, caramel bits bring silky sweetness, while Butterfinger bites contribute that unmistakable crispy peanut buttery crunch. The chocolate drizzle ties everything together with a rich finish.

6 1/2 graham crackers: Provides a crunchy foundation that soaks up buttery caramel without getting soggy.
2 cups mini marshmallows: Creates a soft, gooey layer that melts into the graham crackers for a perfect chew.
1 bag (11 oz) caramel bits: Brings a silky, sweet caramel layer that smooths over the marshmallows beautifully.
2 Tbsp milk: Helps melt the caramel bits evenly and adds a touch of creaminess.
1 bag (10 oz) Butterfinger Bites, coarsely chopped: Adds a crunchy, peanut buttery surprise to every bite.
2 oz semi-sweet chocolate (for drizzling): Melts into a luscious topping that balances the sweetness with a hint of rich cocoa.

How to Make Butterfinger Caramel Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Begin by lining a 9×9 inch baking pan with foil, making sure to leave enough overhang on the sides so you can lift the bars out easily later. Spritz the foil lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking, which makes cleanup and removal an absolute breeze.

Step 2: Layer the Base

Next, arrange the graham crackers across the bottom of the pan in a single layer. Break them gently as needed to fit snugly together, forming a firm and even crust that will hold all the delicious toppings you’ll add later.

Step 3: Add Marshmallows

Sprinkle the mini marshmallows evenly over the graham cracker base. These tiny pillows are going to melt just enough during the caramel pour to create a beautiful marshmallow layer that’s both soft and sweet.

Step 4: Melt Caramel

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the caramel bits and milk. Heat them in the microwave for 1 minute, stir well, and then keep microwaving in 30-second increments, stirring each time until the caramel is fully melted and smooth. This creamy caramel is what makes the bars irresistibly luscious.

Step 5: Pour and Spread Caramel

Gently drizzle the melted caramel over the marshmallows, spreading it evenly across the surface. The marshmallows will slightly soften under the warm caramel, which is perfect to achieve that dreamy gooey texture.

Step 6: Butterfinger Layer

Sprinkle the coarsely chopped Butterfinger bites generously over the caramel. Press them down lightly so they stick into the warm caramel surface; these candy pieces pack a wonderful crunch and flavor that are the heart of the Butterfinger Caramel Bars.

Step 7: Melt Chocolate

Place the semi-sweet chocolate in a clean microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until it melts into a smooth, glossy finish perfect for drizzling.

Step 8: Chocolate Drizzle

Using a spoon or a small piping bag, artistically drizzle the melted chocolate over the Butterfinger layer. This final touch not only adds richness but also makes the bars look irresistible and professionally finished.

Step 9: Chill

Transfer the pan to the refrigerator and chill for about an hour. This step firms everything up, making it much easier to cut and serve the bars without losing that glorious layering.

Step 10: Slice and Enjoy

Once chilled and set, use the foil overhang to lift the Butterfinger Caramel Bars out of the pan onto a cutting board. Slice into squares or bars, and get ready for those moments when friends and family dive in and these sweet treats vanish in no time.

How to Serve Butterfinger Caramel Bars

Garnishes

You can keep it simple with a light dusting of powdered sugar, or get creative by topping with chopped peanuts or a few extra Butterfinger crumbs for an inviting crunch. A tiny sprinkle of sea salt balances the sweetness marvelously if you’re feeling adventurous.

Side Dishes

Butterfinger Caramel Bars are quite the star on their own, but pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce takes dessert time to a whole new level. A hot cup of coffee or milk complements these bars beautifully as well.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these bars on a decorative platter with colorful napkins for casual get-togethers, or individually wrap them in parchment paper tied with twine for delicious homemade gifts. You could also stack miniature bars on a tiered dessert stand for an eye-catching display at parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Butterfinger Caramel Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If it’s warm where you live, keeping them in the fridge prevents the chocolate from melting and maintains the bars’ shape and texture.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, these bars freeze beautifully. Wrap each bar individually with plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months, perfect for when a sweet craving hits unexpectedly.

Reheating

To enjoy frozen bars, thaw them in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours. If you want a warm treat, pop a bar in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, just enough to slightly soften the caramel and chocolate without melting everything.

FAQs

Can I use regular caramel instead of caramel bits?

Absolutely! If you have soft caramel candies, you can melt them with a bit of milk just as you would the caramel bits. Just watch the consistency closely to avoid burning and keep it smooth for pouring.

Are Butterfinger Caramel Bars gluten-free?

Traditional graham crackers contain gluten, so these bars are not gluten-free as written. However, you could substitute gluten-free graham crackers or another sturdy gluten-free cookie to make them suitable for gluten-sensitive eaters.

Can I use a different chocolate for the drizzle?

Of course! White chocolate or milk chocolate can be wonderful alternatives that give these bars a different flavor profile while still adding that luscious finishing touch.

How long do Butterfinger Caramel Bars stay fresh?

Left at room temperature in an airtight container, they’re best eaten within 3 days. Refrigerated, they can last about a week, though the texture may firm up a bit.

Can I double the recipe for a larger batch?

Definitely! Place the doubled ingredients in a larger pan, such as a 9×13 inch, and adjust layering and chilling time accordingly to accommodate the increased volume.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about Butterfinger Caramel Bars that captures the best of indulgent flavors and playful textures. Whether you’re making them for a party, a family treat, or simply to enjoy a moment of blissful sweetness, these bars never fail to impress. So don’t hesitate—grab those ingredients, follow the steps, and soon you’ll have a pan full of golden, crunchy, caramelized magic that everyone will love just as much as you do!

Butterfinger Caramel Bars Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 16 reviews

Author: Sarah
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: 16 bars 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in these irresistible Butterfinger Caramel Bars, featuring a crunchy graham cracker base layered with gooey mini marshmallows, rich caramel, chopped Butterfinger bites, and a decadent drizzle of semi-sweet chocolate. Perfect for dessert lovers who crave a combination of textures and flavors in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Base

6 1/2 graham crackers

Layers

2 cups mini marshmallows
1 bag (11 oz) caramel bits
2 Tbsp milk
1 bag (10 oz) Butterfinger Bites, coarsely chopped

Chocolate Drizzle

2 oz semi-sweet chocolate

Instructions

Prepare the Pan: Line a 9×9 inch baking pan with foil, ensuring the foil extends over the edges for easy removal later. Lightly spray the foil with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Layer the Base: Arrange the graham crackers in the bottom of the pan, breaking pieces as necessary to fit snugly and form an even base layer.
Add Marshmallows: Evenly spread the mini marshmallows over the graham cracker base to create a soft, sweet layer.
Melt Caramel: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the caramel bits and milk. Microwave on high for 1 minute, then stir. Continue microwaving in 30-second increments, stirring each time, until the caramel is fully melted and smooth.
Pour and Spread Caramel: Drizzle the melted caramel evenly over the marshmallows, spreading gently to cover the entire surface. Note that the marshmallows will soften slightly, which adds to the gooey texture.
Butterfinger Layer: Sprinkle the coarsely chopped Butterfinger Bites evenly over the caramel layer, gently pressing them into the sticky mixture so they adhere.
Melt Chocolate: Place the semi-sweet chocolate in another microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle the melted chocolate artistically over the Butterfinger pieces for an elegant finish and extra flavor.
Chill: Transfer the pan to the refrigerator and chill for about one hour, or until the bars are completely set and firm.
Slice and Enjoy: Lift the bars out of the pan using the foil edges, cut into squares or rectangles, and enjoy this delectable treat!

Notes

You can substitute caramel bits with caramel sauce if preferred; adjust the amount of milk accordingly to maintain consistency.
For easier slicing, let the bars chill fully before cutting, and use a sharp knife warmed in hot water.
Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
To add a nutty crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the Butterfinger layer before drizzling chocolate.
If you prefer a less sweet treat, use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet for the drizzle.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake, Chill
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar (approx. 1/16 of recipe)
Calories: 280
Sugar: 28g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: Butterfinger bars, caramel bars, no-bake dessert, chocolate drizzle, graham cracker dessert, easy party snack