Butterfinger Caramel Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Butterfinger Caramel Bars are a decadent dessert layered with gooey caramel, crunchy Butterfinger candy, and a buttery cookie base. These bars are rich, chewy, and packed with sweet, nutty, and chocolatey flavor in every bite. Perfect for parties, bake sales, or satisfying a serious sweet tooth, they’re easy to make and even easier to love.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose flourbrown sugarunsalted buttersweetened condensed milkvanilla extractButterfinger candy bars (crushed)caramel bits or soft caramelschocolate chips (optional)saltbaking soda

directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or grease lightly.

In a large bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt.

Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Press two-thirds of the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan and bake for 10–12 minutes until lightly golden.

Meanwhile, melt caramel bits with sweetened condensed milk over low heat, stirring until smooth. Add vanilla extract and stir well.

Remove crust from the oven and pour the caramel layer evenly over the warm base.

Sprinkle crushed Butterfinger candy and chocolate chips (if using) over the caramel.

Crumble the remaining crust mixture over the top and gently press it down.

Return to the oven and bake for another 20–25 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Cool completely before cutting into bars.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 24 bars.Preparation time: 15 minutesBaking time: 30–35 minutesCooling time: 1 hourTotal time: about 1 hour 50 minutes

Variations

Use peanut butter chips instead of chocolate for extra nuttiness.

Add chopped pretzels for a salty crunch.

Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled bars for a decorative finish.

Use toffee bits or chopped Snickers for a different candy twist.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week.For longer storage, freeze in layers separated by parchment for up to 2 months.Thaw at room temperature before serving. No reheating necessary.

FAQs

Can I use jarred caramel sauce?

For best texture, use caramel bits or soft caramels. Jarred sauce may be too runny.

Can I make this without Butterfingers?

Yes, substitute with any favorite chopped candy bar.

Why did my crust turn hard?

Overbaking can cause dryness—check early and remove when golden, not dark brown.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Butter gives better flavor and texture, but margarine can work in a pinch.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger baking dish and adjust baking time as needed.

Are these bars nut-free?

Butterfingers contain peanuts—use a different candy for a nut-free version.

Do I need to refrigerate them?

Not necessary, but it helps firm the caramel layer if they’re too gooey.

Can I skip the chocolate chips?

Yes, they’re optional—still delicious without.

What’s the best way to crush Butterfingers?

Place in a zip-top bag and gently smash with a rolling pin or mallet.

Can I use a different pan size?

Yes, for thicker bars use a smaller pan and extend the baking time slightly.

Conclusion

Butterfinger Caramel Bars are rich, chewy, and irresistibly layered with sweet caramel and crunchy candy goodness. With a buttery crust and a perfect blend of textures, these bars are a fun and indulgent treat that’s sure to impress. Great for any occasion, they’re a must-try for candy bar lovers and dessert fans alike.

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