Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars Recipe

Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars are the ultimate indulgence for dessert lovers, combining the irresistible flavors of rich caramel, creamy chocolate, and crunchy Butterfinger candy bars. These bars are the perfect treat for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a party, attending a potluck, or simply craving a sweet, crunchy delight at home.

The combination of a buttery shortbread crust, gooey caramel, and the signature peanut-buttery crunch of Butterfinger pieces creates a dessert that’s as satisfying as it is addictive. Topped with a smooth layer of chocolate, these bars offer a delightful contrast in textures and flavors, making them a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Butterfinger candy bars, with their unique, crispy peanut butter filling coated in chocolate, have been a beloved treat for generations. Incorporating them into these bars not only enhances their flavor but also adds a nostalgic touch that’s sure to bring back fond memories. The best part? This recipe is surprisingly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, making it accessible even for novice bakers.

Overview of Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars

Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars are made up of several layers, each contributing to the overall decadence and texture of the dessert:

• Shortbread Crust: The base of these bars is a buttery shortbread crust that provides a firm foundation for the layers above. It’s rich, slightly crumbly, and perfectly complements the sweetness of the caramel and chocolate.
• Caramel Layer: A thick, gooey layer of homemade caramel sits atop the shortbread crust, adding a luscious, chewy texture that pairs beautifully with the crispness of the Butterfinger pieces. The caramel is made from butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, and sweetened condensed milk, cooked to a deep golden brown for a rich, toffee-like flavor.
• Butterfinger Filling: Crushed Butterfinger candy bars are sprinkled over the caramel layer, adding a satisfying crunch and a burst of peanut butter flavor. The candy’s signature crispiness provides a delightful contrast to the smooth caramel and chocolate layers.
• Chocolate Topping: The final layer is a generous coating of melted chocolate, which adds a rich, creamy finish to the bars. The chocolate hardens as it cools, creating a firm, glossy topping that complements the crunchy Butterfinger pieces.

These bars are a perfect balance of sweet, salty, crunchy, and creamy, making them an irresistible treat for any dessert lover. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them with a cup of coffee, these bars are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Brief History and Cultural Significance of Butterfinger

Butterfinger candy bars have been a favorite in American candy aisles since their introduction in the early 1920s. Created by the Curtiss Candy Company, Butterfinger quickly became known for its unique, crispy peanut butter filling coated in chocolate. The name “Butterfinger” was chosen through a public contest, a nod to the term used in sports for someone who frequently drops the ball.

The candy bar’s popularity soared in the 1990s, thanks in part to its association with Bart Simpson from the animated TV show “The Simpsons.” Bart’s catchphrase, “Nobody better lay a finger on my Butterfinger,” became iconic, further cementing the candy’s place in American pop culture. Butterfinger has since appeared in numerous commercials, movies, and TV shows, making it one of the most recognizable candy bars in the world.

In addition to its role as a standalone treat, Butterfinger has inspired countless recipes, from cookies and cakes to pies and ice creams. The candy’s distinctive flavor and texture make it a versatile ingredient in desserts, adding a crunchy, peanut-buttery element that’s hard to resist.

In recent years, Butterfinger has undergone a few changes, including a reformulation in 2019 to improve the quality of its ingredients. Despite these changes, the candy bar remains a beloved classic, with fans continuing to enjoy its signature crunch and flavor in both traditional and modern recipes.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you start making your Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars, it’s helpful to know the time commitment and what the recipe will yield:

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 45 minutes (plus cooling time)
• Servings: 12-16 bars
• Yield: 1 batch (using a 9×13-inch baking pan)

Essential Tools and Equipment

To make Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars, you’ll need the following tools. Each one plays a crucial role in ensuring your bars turn out perfectly:

• Mixing Bowls: Multiple mixing bowls will be needed for preparing the different layers of the bars. Use one for the shortbread crust, another for the caramel, and one more for melting the chocolate.
• Electric Mixer: An electric mixer is helpful for creaming the butter and sugar together for the shortbread crust, ensuring a smooth and well-incorporated dough.
• 9×13-inch Baking Pan: This size pan is ideal for baking the bars. It provides enough space for each layer to be spread evenly and ensures that the bars bake to the correct thickness.
• Saucepan: A medium saucepan is needed to cook the caramel layer. Make sure it’s deep enough to prevent the caramel from bubbling over as it cooks.
• Spatula or Offset Spatula: A spatula is essential for spreading the layers evenly, especially the caramel and chocolate layers. An offset spatula can be particularly helpful for getting a smooth, even surface.
• Parchment Paper: Lining your baking pan with parchment paper is crucial for easy removal of the bars. It prevents the caramel from sticking to the pan and makes it easier to lift the bars out once they’re set.
• Knife: A sharp knife is necessary for cutting the bars once they’ve cooled and the chocolate has set. A clean, sharp blade will help you achieve neat, even slices.

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing Bowls: Using separate mixing bowls for each layer helps keep your ingredients organized and makes the process smoother. This way, you can prep each component without cross-contaminating flavors or textures.
• Electric Mixer: An electric mixer ensures that the butter and sugar are properly creamed, resulting in a tender, crumbly shortbread crust. This is key to creating a sturdy base that won’t crumble under the weight of the caramel and chocolate layers.
• 9×13-inch Baking Pan: This pan size ensures that the layers bake evenly and the bars have the right thickness. It also allows for easy cutting and serving.
• Saucepan: A good-quality saucepan with a heavy bottom will help distribute heat evenly, preventing the caramel from burning. It’s important to stir constantly while cooking the caramel to achieve a smooth, glossy finish.
• Spatula or Offset Spatula: These tools are essential for spreading the layers evenly, especially the sticky caramel and melted chocolate. A smooth, even layer not only looks better but also ensures that each bite has the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
• Parchment Paper: Lining your pan with parchment paper makes it easy to lift the entire batch of bars out at once, which is especially important when working with sticky caramel and chocolate layers. It also simplifies cleanup.
• Knife: A sharp knife is crucial for cutting the bars cleanly without cracking the chocolate or smooshing the layers. For best results, warm the knife slightly under hot water, dry it off, and then cut the bars.

Preparation Tips

To achieve the best results with your Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars, follow these preparation tips:

• Shortbread Crust: Ensure your butter is at room temperature before starting. This makes it easier to cream with the sugar, resulting in a smooth, cohesive dough. Press the dough firmly and evenly into the pan to create a solid base that will hold up under the caramel and chocolate layers.
• Caramel Layer: When cooking the caramel, keep a close eye on the color. You want it to reach a deep golden brown for the best flavor. Stir constantly to prevent burning and ensure even cooking. If you’re unsure, use a candy thermometer to ensure the caramel reaches the right temperature (about 240°F or soft-ball stage).
• Butterfinger Filling: Crush the Butterfinger bars into small, even pieces for easy distribution. Larger chunks can create uneven layers, while smaller pieces ensure that every bite has a bit of crunch. Feel free to add a little extra Butterfinger on top of the caramel before the chocolate layer for an extra crunch.
• Chocolate Topping: Use high-quality chocolate chips for a smooth, glossy topping. When melting the chocolate, do so gently (in the microwave in 30-second intervals or using a double boiler) to avoid seizing. A teaspoon of vegetable oil can be added to the chocolate for a smoother, shinier finish.
• Cooling and Cutting: After adding the chocolate layer, let the bars cool at room temperature before refrigerating them. This helps the layers set evenly. Once cooled, refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours before cutting to ensure clean slices. Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water to make clean cuts without cracking the chocolate.

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to make Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars:

For the Shortbread Crust:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Caramel Layer:

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup light corn syrup
• 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Butterfinger Filling:

• 1 1/2 cups crushed Butterfinger candy bars (about 6 full-size bars)

For the Chocolate Topping:

• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (optional, for a smoother topping)

These ingredients come together to create a dessert that’s rich, decadent, and full of flavor. The shortbread crust provides a buttery base, the caramel adds a gooey, sweet layer, the Butterfinger pieces bring a satisfying crunch, and the chocolate topping ties everything together with a creamy, luxurious finish.

Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients and tools ready, follow these steps to make Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars:

1. Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the flour and salt, mixing until the dough comes together. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
2. Make the caramel layer: In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, and sweetened condensed milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches a deep golden brown color, about 5-7 minutes. The mixture should be smooth and glossy. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Pour the caramel over the baked crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Allow the caramel to cool and set slightly, about 10-15 minutes.
3. Add the Butterfinger filling: While the caramel is still slightly warm, sprinkle the crushed Butterfinger candy bars evenly over the caramel layer. Press down gently to ensure the candy adheres to the caramel.
4. Prepare the chocolate topping: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and vegetable oil (if using) in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and fully melted. Pour the melted chocolate over the Butterfinger layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula or offset spatula. Allow the bars to cool at room temperature for about 20 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate is fully set.
5. Slice and serve: Once the bars are fully cooled and the chocolate has set, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Place on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to cut into squares or rectangles. For the cleanest cuts, warm the knife under hot water, dry it, and then slice through the bars. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Variations on Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars

The Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to experiment with different flavors and textures. Here are some delicious variations to try:

1. Peanut Butter Butterfinger Bars

For those who love the combination of peanut butter and chocolate, try adding a layer of peanut butter between the caramel and Butterfinger layers.

• Instructions: After spreading the caramel layer, gently warm 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds to soften it. Spread the peanut butter evenly over the caramel before adding the crushed Butterfinger pieces. Proceed with the recipe as usual.
• Flavor Profile: This variation adds an extra layer of creamy, nutty goodness that enhances the peanut-buttery flavor of the Butterfinger. The peanut butter layer creates a richer, more indulgent bar that’s perfect for peanut butter lovers.

2. Almond Butterfinger Bars

Substitute the Butterfinger candy bars with crushed almond toffee bars, like Almond Roca, for a nutty, toffee-flavored twist on the original recipe.

• Instructions: Replace the Butterfinger pieces with 1 1/2 cups of crushed Almond Roca or a similar almond toffee candy. Follow the recipe as usual, layering the almond toffee over the caramel before adding the chocolate topping.
• Flavor Profile: This variation offers a more sophisticated flavor, with the nuttiness of the almonds complementing the toffee and caramel. It’s a great alternative for those who prefer a less sweet, more complex dessert.

3. Dark Chocolate Butterfinger Bars

For a richer, slightly less sweet version, use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate for the topping.

• Instructions: Replace the 2 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips (or a chopped dark chocolate bar). Proceed with the recipe as usual, melting the chocolate and spreading it over the Butterfinger layer.
• Flavor Profile: Dark chocolate adds a touch of bitterness that balances the sweetness of the caramel and Butterfinger layers. This variation is ideal for those who enjoy a more intense chocolate flavor.

4. Salted Caramel Butterfinger Bars

Enhance the caramel layer with a sprinkle of sea salt to create a salted caramel version of the bars.

• Instructions: After pouring the caramel over the baked crust, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt evenly over the caramel layer before adding the Butterfinger pieces. Continue with the recipe as directed.
• Flavor Profile: The addition of sea salt creates a delightful contrast between the sweet caramel and the salty finish, adding a sophisticated depth of flavor. This variation is perfect for those who love the sweet-and-salty combination.

5. Gluten-Free Butterfinger Bars

Make these bars suitable for those with gluten sensitivities by using a gluten-free flour blend for the shortbread crust.

• Instructions: Substitute the 2 cups of all-purpose flour with an equal amount of gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend contains a binder like xanthan gum to help the crust hold together. Follow the recipe as usual.
• Flavor Profile: The gluten-free version of these bars maintains the same delicious flavor and texture as the original, making them accessible to those with dietary restrictions.

6. Mini Butterfinger Crunch Bites

Create bite-sized versions of these bars using a mini muffin tin for a fun, portable treat.

• Instructions: Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners. Press a small amount of the shortbread crust mixture into each cup, about 1/2 inch thick. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden. Follow the recipe to add the caramel, Butterfinger pieces, and chocolate topping to each mini cup. Chill and serve.
• Flavor Profile: These mini bites offer the same indulgent flavors in a smaller, more manageable portion. They’re perfect for parties, where guests can grab a bite-sized treat without committing to a full bar.

7. No-Bake Butterfinger Bars

If you prefer a no-bake option, you can modify the recipe using a graham cracker crust and a stovetop caramel.

• Instructions: For the crust, mix 2 cups of graham cracker crumbs with 1/2 cup of melted butter and press into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan. Chill the crust in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. Prepare the caramel layer on the stovetop as directed, pour it over the chilled crust, and proceed with the Butterfinger filling and chocolate topping. Chill until set.
• Flavor Profile: The no-bake version is slightly lighter and less dense than the original, with a crumbly graham cracker crust that contrasts nicely with the gooey caramel and crunchy Butterfinger pieces.

8. Vegan Butterfinger Bars

For a vegan-friendly version, use plant-based alternatives for the butter, caramel, and chocolate.

• Instructions: Replace the butter in the crust and caramel with a vegan butter substitute. Use a vegan sweetened condensed milk (such as coconut-based) for the caramel layer, and dairy-free chocolate chips for the topping. Ensure the Butterfinger candy bars are vegan, or substitute with another vegan-friendly candy.
• Flavor Profile: The vegan version of these bars retains the rich, indulgent flavors of the original while accommodating those with dietary restrictions. The use of plant-based ingredients doesn’t compromise the texture or taste.

Pairing Suggestions

Pairing Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars with the right beverages and sides can elevate the dessert experience. Here are some pairing ideas to complement the flavors of these rich, indulgent bars:

1. Coffee or Espresso

A strong cup of coffee or a shot of espresso is an excellent pairing for these sweet and rich bars.

• Why It Works: The bitterness of the coffee contrasts with the sweetness of the caramel and chocolate, balancing the overall flavor profile. The robust flavor of coffee also enhances the chocolate and peanut butter notes in the bars.
• Serving Suggestion: Serve the bars alongside a small cup of espresso for a classic dessert pairing, or enjoy them as an afternoon treat with your favorite coffee blend.

2. Vanilla Ice Cream

For a classic and indulgent dessert experience, serve the bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

• Why It Works: The cold, creamy texture of the ice cream complements the rich, chewy texture of the bars. Vanilla’s subtle flavor enhances the peanut butter and caramel without overpowering them.
• Serving Suggestion: Place a square of the bar in a bowl and top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Drizzle with chocolate sauce or caramel for an extra decadent touch.

3. Hot Chocolate

Enjoying these bars with a mug of hot chocolate creates a cozy, comforting treat perfect for colder weather.

• Why It Works: The warm, creamy hot chocolate pairs beautifully with the buttery shortbread crust and the smooth chocolate topping. It’s a double chocolate experience that’s rich and satisfying.
• Serving Suggestion: For an extra indulgent treat, add a dollop of whipped cream to your hot chocolate and sprinkle some crushed Butterfinger pieces on top.

4. Fresh Berries

Pairing the bars with fresh berries, such as strawberries or raspberries, adds a refreshing burst of tartness that cuts through the sweetness.

• Why It Works: The tartness of the berries contrasts with the sweet caramel and chocolate, providing a light, fruity element that balances the richness of the bars.
• Serving Suggestion: Arrange a few fresh berries on the side of each bar, or make a simple berry compote to drizzle over the bars before serving.

5. Whipped Cream

A dollop of whipped cream adds a light, airy element to the rich dessert, making it even more enjoyable.

• Why It Works: The lightness of the whipped cream contrasts with the dense, chewy bars, creating a balanced bite. The creaminess of the whipped cream enhances the buttery, caramel flavors without adding more sweetness.
• Serving Suggestion: Serve a square of the bar with a generous spoonful of whipped cream on top, or layer the bars and whipped cream in a dessert glass for a parfait-style presentation.

6. Chocolate Ganache

Drizzle the bars with chocolate ganache before serving for an extra layer of decadence.

• Why It Works: The rich, silky ganache adds depth to the chocolate flavor in the bars, making them even more indulgent. It also provides a beautiful finish that elevates the presentation.
• Serving Suggestion: Make a simple chocolate ganache by heating equal parts heavy cream and chocolate chips until smooth. Drizzle the ganache over the bars just before serving, or dip one end of each bar in ganache for a sophisticated touch.

7. Salted Pretzels

For a sweet-and-salty combination, pair the bars with salted pretzels.

• Why It Works: The saltiness of the pretzels contrasts with the sweet, rich flavors of the bars, creating a balanced and satisfying snack. The crunch of the pretzels also complements the texture of the bars.
• Serving Suggestion: Arrange the bars on a platter surrounded by salted pretzels, or dip the pretzels in melted chocolate and serve them alongside the bars for a fun, interactive dessert.

8. Glass of Milk

Keep it classic by serving the bars with a cold glass of milk.

• Why It Works: The milk’s creaminess helps to balance the sweetness of the bars, providing a refreshing contrast. It’s a nostalgic pairing that’s perfect for both kids and adults.
• Serving Suggestion: Serve the bars with a tall glass of cold milk on the side, or dip the bars in the milk for a simple yet satisfying dessert.

Common Mistakes To Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe

Even though Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars are relatively easy to make, there are a few common mistakes that can impact the final result. Here’s how to avoid them:

Common Mistakes

• Overcooking the Caramel: One of the most common mistakes is overcooking the caramel layer. This can result in a hard, brittle caramel that’s difficult to bite into, rather than the desired soft and gooey texture.
  • Solution: Cook the caramel just until it reaches a deep golden brown color and begins to thicken. If you’re unsure, use a candy thermometer to ensure the caramel reaches the soft-ball stage (about 240°F). Remove the caramel from the heat immediately to prevent it from hardening.
• Uneven Layers: Spreading the layers unevenly can lead to bars that are thicker in some parts and too thin in others, resulting in an unbalanced texture and flavor.
  • Solution: Use a spatula or an offset spatula to evenly spread each layer. Take your time to ensure that the shortbread crust, caramel, Butterfinger pieces, and chocolate topping are all level and evenly distributed.
• Using Low-Quality Chocolate: Using low-quality chocolate can result in a grainy topping that doesn’t set well, affecting both the texture and appearance of the bars.
  • Solution: Opt for high-quality chocolate chips or a good-quality chocolate bar for melting. This will give you a smooth, glossy finish that sets nicely on top of the bars.
• Skipping the Parchment Paper: Not using parchment paper can make it difficult to remove the bars from the pan, especially since the caramel can stick to the bottom.
  • Solution: Always line your baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal. This will make it much easier to lift the bars out of the pan once they’re set, and it simplifies cleanup.

Tips to Perfect the Recipe

• Use a Candy Thermometer: If you’re new to making caramel, a candy thermometer can be a helpful tool to ensure you reach the correct temperature without overcooking. Aim for the soft-ball stage (240°F) for a perfect caramel consistency.
• Level Each Layer: To achieve even layers, use an offset spatula to spread the shortbread crust, caramel, and chocolate topping. This will help ensure that each bar has the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
• Allow Sufficient Cooling Time: It’s important to let the bars cool completely before cutting them. This allows the layers to set properly, ensuring clean, even slices. For best results, refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours before slicing.
• Warm the Knife for Clean Cuts: To get clean, neat slices without cracking the chocolate layer, warm your knife under hot water, dry it off, and then cut through the bars. This will help the knife glide through the chocolate without causing it to break or crumble.

Tips, Notes, Storing, and Serving

Additional Tips for Perfecting Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars

To ensure your Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars turn out perfectly every time, consider these additional tips:

• Chill the Layers: After spreading the caramel and Butterfinger layers, allow them to chill in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes before adding the chocolate topping. This helps to firm up the layers and prevents them from mixing with the melted chocolate.
• Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a slightly less sweet bar, consider using bittersweet or dark chocolate for the topping instead of semi-sweet chocolate. The darker chocolate adds a rich, slightly bitter note that balances the sweetness of the caramel and Butterfinger layers.
• Experiment with Different Candy Bars: While Butterfinger is the star of this recipe, feel free to experiment with other crunchy candy bars like Heath, Snickers, or Twix. Each one will bring a unique flavor and texture to the bars.
• Cutting Cleanly: For the cleanest cuts, use a long, sharp knife that’s been warmed under hot water and then dried. Cut straight down with a firm, even pressure, wiping the knife clean between cuts to keep the edges neat.
• Make-Ahead Option: These bars can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. They actually taste better after a day, as the flavors have time to meld together. Just be sure to cover them tightly to prevent the chocolate from absorbing any refrigerator odors.

Storing the Bars

Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars store well, making them a convenient dessert to prepare in advance. Here’s how to store them for optimal freshness:

• In the Refrigerator: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. The chocolate layer will stay firm, and the caramel will remain gooey and delicious.
• In the Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bars in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between the layers to prevent sticking. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw the bars in the refrigerator overnight.

Serving Ideas

Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars are versatile and can be served in various ways to suit different occasions:

• Cut into Squares: For a classic presentation, cut the bars into squares or rectangles. This shape is easy to serve and eat, making it perfect for parties or potlucks.
• Cut into Strips: For a more elegant presentation, cut the bars into long strips. This is a great option for a dessert platter, allowing guests to enjoy smaller portions.
• Use Cookie Cutters: For a fun twist, use cookie cutters to cut the bars into shapes like hearts, stars, or circles. This is especially fun for themed parties or holidays.
• Top with Extra Toppings: Just before serving, you can add a sprinkle of sea salt, a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce, or even some crushed nuts on top of the bars to enhance the flavor and presentation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a different type of candy bar?

Yes, you can substitute Butterfinger with other crunchy candy bars like Heath, Snickers, or Twix. Each will bring its own unique flavor and texture, allowing you to customize the bars to your liking.

How do I make the caramel softer?

If you prefer a softer caramel, reduce the cooking time slightly or add an extra tablespoon of sweetened condensed milk to the caramel mixture. This will result in a more gooey, less firm caramel layer.

What’s the best way to store these bars?

Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. If you need to store them longer, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Can I double the recipe for a larger batch?

Yes, you can double the recipe and use a larger pan (such as an 11×15-inch pan) or make two separate batches in 9×13-inch pans. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed and ensure the layers are evenly spread.

How do I cut the bars cleanly without cracking the chocolate?

To cut the bars cleanly, use a sharp knife that’s been warmed under hot water, then dried. Cut straight down with firm, even pressure, wiping the knife clean between cuts to avoid smearing the chocolate.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to the recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add chopped nuts, coconut flakes, or even mini chocolate chips to the Butterfinger layer for added texture and flavor. Just sprinkle them on before adding the chocolate topping.

How do I make the bars less sweet?

To reduce the sweetness, use bittersweet or dark chocolate for the topping instead of semi-sweet chocolate. You can also reduce the amount of sugar in the shortbread crust by 1-2 tablespoons.

What type of chocolate is best for the topping?

High-quality chocolate chips or bars are best for the topping. Semi-sweet chocolate is standard, but you can use dark chocolate for a richer flavor or milk chocolate for a sweeter topping.

Conclusion

Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars are a decadent, crowd-pleasing dessert that combines rich caramel, creamy chocolate, and the signature crunch of Butterfinger candy bars. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these bars are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party, attending a potluck, or simply indulging in a sweet treat at home.

The recipe’s versatility allows you to experiment with different variations and pairings, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. Whether you prefer a classic approach or want to try a new twist, these bars are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a batch of these delicious Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars. Don’t forget to share the recipe with friends and family—they’re sure to appreciate the indulgence!

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