Name: Indulgent Caramel Crush Bars Dessert You’ll Love at Home Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.25 cups butter, melted; 1.5 cups quick oats; 2.25 cups all-purpose flour; 1.5 cups brown sugar; 0.25 cups butter, melted; 1 cup brown sugar; 0.25 cups milk; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons flour

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Introduction

These Indulgent Caramel Crush Bars are a nostalgic treat that combines a chewy oat crust with a rich, gooey caramel filling. Perfect for any occasion, they’re quick to prepare and sure to satisfy your sweet tooth with every bite.

The image shows two stacked square bars with multiple layers. The bottom layer is a crumbly, light brown crust with a grainy texture. Above it is a thicker, dark brown layer with a moist, nutty filling. The third layer is a smooth, pale caramel-colored filling, topped with a shiny, amber caramel glaze that has small pieces of chopped nuts embedded across the surface. The bars are placed on a white plate, set against a white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1.25 cups butter, melted
1.5 cups quick oats
2.25 cups all-purpose flour
1.5 cups brown sugar
0.25 cups butter, melted
1 cup brown sugar
0.25 cups milk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 tablespoons flour

Instructions

Step 1: Melt 1.25 cups of butter in a microwave-safe bowl for 1-2 minutes until fully liquefied.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, quick oats, 2.25 cups flour, and 1.5 cups brown sugar. Stir until you get a crumbly yet sticky mixture.
Step 3: Press two-thirds of this mixture firmly into a greased 9×13 inch pan to form an even crust.
Step 4: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then set it aside to cool for a few minutes.
Step 5: Melt the remaining 0.25 cups butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
Step 6: Add 1 cup brown sugar to the melted butter and stir until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
Step 7: Stir in milk, vanilla extract, and 2 tablespoons flour continuously, mixing until you achieve a smooth caramel filling.
Step 8: Bring the caramel mixture to a gentle boil and let it simmer for 3 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
Step 9: Pour the caramel filling evenly over the cooled crust and spread it out with a spatula.
Step 10: Sprinkle the reserved crust crumbs over the caramel layer as a topping.
Step 11: Reduce oven temperature to 300°F (149°C) and bake for another 20 minutes.
Step 12: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares and serving.

Tips & Variations

Use quick oats for a softer texture; rolled oats can be used for a chewier bite.
For extra richness, add a pinch of sea salt to the caramel filling for a salted caramel twist.
Chill the bars in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before cutting to make slicing cleaner and easier.

Storage

Store these bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to one week. Reheat slightly in a microwave or let them come to room temperature before serving to enjoy the soft caramel texture.

How to Serve

Two square dessert bars stacked on a white marbled surface, each with four distinct layers. The bottom layer is a crumbly, light golden crust. Above it is a thick, dark brown, slightly textured layer that looks like a nutty or spiced filling. The third layer is a smooth, pale yellow or caramel-colored cream. The top layer is a shiny amber caramel glaze sprinkled with small chopped nuts, giving a glossy and crunchy appearance. The bars have a slightly crumbly edge with bits falling off. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Butter is recommended for its flavor and texture, but margarine can be used in a pinch. Keep in mind it may alter the taste and consistency slightly.

What’s the best way to cut the bars without them falling apart?

Allow the bars to cool completely, then chill them in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat pieces.