Ingredients:
For the Base:
2 cups Rice Krispies (or other crispy rice cereal)
1 cup salted peanuts, roughly chopped (optional, but gives a great crunch)
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup corn syrup (light)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Caramel Layer:
1 cup caramel candies (or caramel bits)
1/4 cup heavy cream
For the Chocolate Topping:
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (or milk chocolate if you prefer)
1/2 cup chopped salted peanuts (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
1.
Make the Base:
In a large bowl, combine the Rice Krispies and chopped peanuts (if using). Set aside.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the brown sugar and corn syrup. Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves, and the mixture begins to simmer. Allow it to simmer for about 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
Remove the pan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Pour the caramel mixture over the Rice Krispies and peanuts, then stir gently to coat the cereal and peanuts completely.
2.
Press the Base into a Pan:
Line an 8×8 or 9×9 square baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Pour the Rice Krispies mixture into the prepared dish and press it down firmly using a spatula or your hands. Make sure it’s evenly spread and packed tightly.
3.
Prepare the Caramel Layer:
In a small saucepan, combine the caramel candies and heavy cream over low heat. Stir frequently until the caramel is completely melted and smooth.
Pour the melted caramel over the Rice Krispies base and spread it evenly with a spatula.
4.
Make the Chocolate Topping:
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until the chocolate is smooth and fully melted.
Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel layer, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface.
5.
Garnish (Optional):
Sprinkle the chopped salted peanuts (or any other topping you like, such as sea salt or mini chocolate chips) on top of the melted chocolate for extra crunch and flavor.
6.
Chill and Set:
Place the baking dish in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until the bars are fully set and the chocolate has hardened.
7.
Serve:
Once the bars are set, cut them into squares or rectangles.
Enjoy these irresistible homemade crunch bars with a delightful blend of chocolate, caramel, and crispy rice.
Tips:
If you prefer a richer caramel, you can add a pinch of salt to the caramel mixture to balance the sweetness.
For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a drizzle of peanut butter to the chocolate layer before it hardens.
If you want more texture, you can add other mix-ins like crushed pretzels or coconut flakes to the base.
These homemade crunch bars are absolutely irresistible and will quickly become your favorite treat to make!