Description
Indulgent Caramel Crush Bars are a delightful treat combining a buttery oat crust with a luscious caramel filling, perfect for dessert or snacking. Featuring a crisp base, a rich caramel center, and a crumbly topping, these bars offer a nostalgic flavor and satisfying texture that will wow your taste buds. Ideal for busy weeknights or weekend brunches, they deliver comfort and sweetness in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust and Topping
- 1 1/4 cups Butter, melted
- 1 1/2 cups Quick oats
- 2 1/4 cups All-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups Brown sugar
Caramel Filling
- 1/4 cup Butter
- 1 cup Brown sugar
- 1/4 cup Milk
- 2 teaspoons Vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons Flour
Instructions
- Melt the Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 1 1/4 cups of butter for about 30 seconds until fully liquid to prepare the crust mixture.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the melted butter, 1 1/2 cups quick oats, 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, and 1 1/2 cups brown sugar until well combined, forming the crust batter.
- Press the Crust Mixture: Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan and press two-thirds of the crust mixture firmly into the bottom to create the base layer.
- Prepare the Caramel Filling: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 1/4 cup butter, stirring continuously until it starts to bubble gently.
- Mix in Brown Sugar: Stir in 1 cup brown sugar until smooth and fully dissolved, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Add Milk and Flour: Gradually add 1/4 cup milk while stirring. Then incorporate 2 teaspoons vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons flour, mixing thoroughly to avoid lumps.
- Simmer the Caramel: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and simmer for about 3 minutes, stirring constantly until thickened to a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Assemble the Bars: Pour the warm caramel filling evenly over the pressed crust in the baking pan.
- Add the Crust Topping: Sprinkle the remaining third of the crust mixture evenly over the caramel layer, creating a crumbly top.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the pan in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) and bake for 20 minutes, or until the top turns a golden hue and the bars are set.
- Cut and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely. Once cooled, cut into bars and serve at room temperature.
Notes
- Ensure the butter is fully melted for easy mixing and a consistent crust texture.
- Press the crust mixture evenly in the pan to prevent uneven baking.
- Stir caramel filling continuously to avoid burning and lumps.
- Let bars cool completely before cutting to maintain clean slices.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for extended freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Caramel bars, oat bars, caramel dessert, easy dessert bars, baked caramel bars, sweet treats
