Meta Info
Servings: 16 bars
Total Time: ~55 minutes + cooling
Difficulty: Moderate
Calories per Serving: ~310
Macros (Approx.):
Protein: 5–6g | Carbs: 34–38g | Fat: 18–20g | Fiber: 2g
Intro: The Kind of Dessert People Ask You to Bring Again
These Chocolate Caramel Nut Bars are unapologetically rich in the best way. A buttery base, a thick layer of soft caramel, crunchy nuts, and a smooth chocolate topping come together into a dessert that feels straight out of a bakery case.
They’re chewy, slightly gooey in the center, and firm enough to slice cleanly once cooled. This is the kind of recipe that shows up at holidays, potlucks, and family gatherings — and quietly disappears before anything else.
If you love layered desserts with real texture and depth, this one delivers every time.
Look at the Recipe
- Buttery base with a soft, chewy caramel center
- Crunchy nuts in every bite
- Smooth chocolate topping that sets perfectly
Ingredients Needed
For the Base
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- ¼ tsp salt
For the Caramel Layer
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ¼ cup light corn syrup
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Topping
- 1½ cups chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts work best)
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
How to Make Our Chocolate Caramel Nut Bars
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
-
Make the base:
In a bowl, mix flour, melted butter, brown sugar, and salt until crumbly.
Press firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
Bake for 12–15 minutes until lightly set. -
Prepare the caramel:
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, butter, corn syrup, and sweetened condensed milk.
Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened and smooth, about 6–8 minutes.
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla. -
Assemble:
Pour the hot caramel evenly over the baked crust.
Sprinkle chopped nuts evenly over the caramel layer. - Bake again for 18–22 minutes, until the caramel is bubbling gently around the edges.
-
Add chocolate:
Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle chocolate chips over the top.
Let sit 2–3 minutes, then spread gently into a smooth layer. - Cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour before slicing into bars.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
- For clean slices, use a sharp knife wiped between cuts.
- Excellent with coffee, espresso, or a glass of cold milk.
- These bars also freeze well for up to 2 months.
Tips & FAQs
What nuts work best?
Pecans and walnuts give the best flavor and texture, but almonds also work.
Can I make these thicker?
Yes — use a smaller pan, but increase bake time slightly.
Why line the pan with parchment?
It makes removing and slicing the bars much easier once set.
Can I use dark chocolate instead?
Absolutely. Dark chocolate balances the sweetness beautifully.
Do these travel well?
Yes. Once fully set and chilled, they’re sturdy enough for gifting or potlucks.
