Crunchy peanut butter bars (Printer-Friendly)
Layered bars featuring peanut butter, caramel, chocolate, and salted peanuts for a crunchy finish.
# The Ingredients You'll Need:
→ Chocolate Layer
01 -
1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips, divided
02 -
14 ounces sweetened condensed milk, divided
→ Peanut Butter Layer
03 -
1 cup creamy peanut butter
04 -
7 ounces marshmallow creme
→ Nut Topping
05 -
1 1/4 cups salted peanuts, divided
→ Caramel Layer
06 -
10 ounces caramels
07 -
3 tablespoons heavy cream
# Step-by-Step Instructions:
01 -
Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
02 -
Melt 3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips with 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk over low to medium heat. Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish and refrigerate until firm.
03 -
Combine 1 cup creamy peanut butter with 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk in a saucepan over low heat. Heat until well combined but not fully melted. Remove from heat and stir in 7 ounces marshmallow creme until evenly mixed. Pour over the firm chocolate layer.
04 -
Sprinkle 1 cup of salted peanuts evenly over the peanut butter layer and refrigerate while preparing the next layer.
05 -
Melt 10 ounces caramels with 3 tablespoons heavy cream in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth. Pour over the peanut and nut layer. Chill in the refrigerator before adding the final layer.
06 -
Melt the remaining 1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips with 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk over low to medium heat. Pour evenly over the caramel layer.
07 -
Chop and sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup salted peanuts on top. Allow the bars to cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 1 hour. Slice and serve chilled.
# Extra Tips:
01 -
Ensure each layer is sufficiently chilled and firm before adding the next to maintain distinct layers.