Homemade Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars

Imagine biting into a homemade treat that combines the rich, nutty flavor of a classic Butterfinger with the gooey goodness of caramel and a satisfying crunch. These Homemade Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars are the ultimate indulgence for anyone with a sweet tooth. They’re layered with a crispy, flaky base, a smooth caramel center, and topped with a crunchy, chocolatey coating that will have you coming back for more.

The best part? You don’t need to be a professional baker to make these bars. With a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create a dessert that’s not only delicious but also impressively beautiful. Whether you’re whipping these up for a party, a family gathering, or just a special treat for yourself, these bars are guaranteed to be a hit.

So, roll up your sleeves, get out your mixing bowls, and prepare to make a dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. These Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars are a labor of love, but the end result is pure confectionary bliss.

Recipe Summary 🍫

Todd Wilbur Style:

Homemade Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars bring together the iconic taste of Butterfinger candy with the rich decadence of caramel and a perfect crunch. These bars are an irresistible treat, combining layers of texture and flavor that make every bite a sweet adventure.

The crunchy peanut butter base is topped with a layer of gooey caramel and finished with a crispy chocolate coating, creating a dessert bar that’s as satisfying as it is indulgent. Perfect for sharing, or keeping all to yourself!

Why These Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars are a Must-Try

Why You’ll Love These Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars

1. Crunchy and Gooey: The combination of a crunchy base with gooey caramel and a crisp chocolate topping creates an irresistible texture.
2. Homemade Candy Perfection: These bars give you the taste of your favorite candy bar, but better because they’re homemade.
3. Simple Ingredients: With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up these impressive bars.
4. Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for a party or a simple snack, these bars are sure to be a hit with everyone.

How to Make Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars 🍫

Prepare the Crunchy Base:
In a large saucepan, combine the peanut butter, honey, and sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. Remove from the heat and stir in the crushed cornflakes until evenly coated. Press this mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, creating an even layer. Set aside.

Make the Caramel Layer:
In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and water, cooking over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil, cooking without stirring until it turns a deep amber color. Carefully add the heavy cream and butter, whisking continuously until the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Pour the caramel over the crunchy base, spreading it evenly. Allow it to cool and set.

Create the Chocolate Topping:
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and vegetable oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the chocolate is melted and smooth. Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel layer, spreading it out evenly. If using, sprinkle the crushed Butterfinger candy bars on top for an extra layer of crunch. Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate is fully set.

Cut and Serve:
Once the bars are set, remove them from the refrigerator and cut them into squares or rectangles. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

---

Tips for Perfect Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars 🍫

• Caramel Consistency: Keep an eye on the caramel as it cooks; it can burn quickly. The goal is a deep amber color, not too light or too dark.
• Even Layers: Use the back of a spoon or an offset spatula to spread each layer evenly for a professional-looking result.
• Storage: Store these bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and maintain their crunch.

Substitutions and Variations

• Peanut-Free Version: Substitute the peanut butter with almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free alternative.
• Dark Chocolate: For a richer taste, use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate.
• Add Nuts: Mix chopped nuts into the caramel layer for added texture and flavor.

Make a Healthier Version

• Natural Sweeteners: Replace the sugar with coconut sugar or a natural sweetener for a slightly healthier version.
• Dark Chocolate: Use dark chocolate with a high cocoa content for a less sweet, more antioxidant-rich topping.
• Low-Sugar Option: Substitute some of the sugar in the caramel with a low-glycemic sweetener like monk fruit.

Closing 🍫

And there you have it! A sweet and crunchy treat that’s sure to satisfy any candy lover’s cravings. These Homemade Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars are not only fun to make, but they’re also even more fun to eat. Don’t forget to share your creations with us, and be sure to explore more of our delicious recipes!

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different cereal for the base?
Yes, Rice Krispies or crushed pretzels could work well as substitutes for cornflakes.

What’s the best way to store these bars?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Can I freeze these bars?
Yes, these bars freeze well. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

What if I don’t have a candy thermometer?
You can make the caramel by eye, but watch closely to avoid burning. The deep amber color is your best indicator.

Can I add a layer of peanut butter between the caramel and chocolate?
Absolutely! A thin layer of peanut butter would add even more flavor and richness.

How do I make these bars gluten-free?
Ensure that your cornflakes and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.