Quick Description
These chocolate peanut caramel bars are rich, chewy, and packed with crunchy peanuts and gooey caramel, all coated in smooth chocolate. They taste similar to homemade candy bars and require only simple ingredients. Perfect for dessert trays, snacks, or sweet treats.
Servings & Timing
- Servings: 12–16 bars
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: About 1 hour 15 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 cup roasted peanuts
- 1 cup caramel candies (or soft caramel sauce)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 ½ cups milk chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional topping
- Chopped peanuts
- Sea salt flakes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Caramel Filling
In a saucepan over low heat combine:
Caramel candies
Butter
Stir continuously until fully melted and smooth.
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and salt.
Step 2: Add Peanuts
Mix roasted peanuts into the caramel mixture until evenly coated.
Step 3: Shape the Bars
Line a small baking tray with parchment paper.
Spread the peanut caramel mixture evenly in the tray.
Press down with a spatula to create an even layer.
Refrigerate for about 30 minutes until firm.
Step 4: Cut the Bars
Remove from refrigerator and cut into small rectangular bars.
Step 5: Melt Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl melt chocolate chips in 20–30 second intervals, stirring between each until smooth.
Step 6: Coat the Bars
Dip each bar into the melted chocolate until fully coated.
Place on parchment paper.
Sprinkle chopped peanuts or sea salt on top if desired.
Step 7: Chill
Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes until the chocolate sets.
Texture & Flavor
- Crunchy peanuts
- Gooey caramel center
- Smooth chocolate coating
- Sweet and salty balance
Storage
- Refrigerate up to 1 week
- Freeze up to 2 months
- Store in an airtight container
Tips
- Use dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
- Add chopped almonds or cashews for variety.
- A sprinkle of sea salt enhances the caramel flavor.
