Caramel Chocolate Crunch Bars

Introduction

Caramel Chocolate Crunch Bars are the perfect no-bake treat that combines gooey caramel, rich chocolate, and a satisfying crunch. With layers of crispy cereal, silky melted chocolate, and chewy caramel, these bars are simple to make yet taste like something straight from a bakery. They’re a crowd-pleaser for parties, potlucks, or whenever you need a sweet bite of indulgence.

Ingredients

• 3 cups crispy rice cereal
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup butterscotch chips
• 1 cup caramel bits (or unwrapped soft caramels)
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• ½ cup peanut butter (creamy)
• Optional: flaky sea salt, for sprinkling

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pan

• Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.

2. Make the Chocolate Layer

• In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, and peanut butter.
• Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring each time, until smooth.
• Stir in the crispy rice cereal until well coated.
• Press half of this mixture into the bottom of the prepared dish (reserve the other half for the topping).

3. Make the Caramel Layer

• In another bowl, melt caramel bits with heavy cream in the microwave, stirring until smooth.
• Pour the melted caramel evenly over the cereal-chocolate layer in the pan.

4. Finish with Topping

• Spread the remaining chocolate-cereal mixture over the caramel layer.
• Smooth the top with a spatula.
• Sprinkle lightly with flaky sea salt, if desired.

5. Chill & Serve

• Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.
• Cut into squares or bars and enjoy!

Storage

• Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate up to 1 week.
• These also freeze well—wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.