Print

Indulgent Caramel Crush Bars Recipe

4.6 from 78 reviews

Indulgent Caramel Crush Bars are a delightful treat combining a hearty oat and brown sugar crust with a rich, smooth caramel filling. These bars offer a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making them ideal for dessert or a sweet snack. Easy to prepare, they bake to a golden finish that will wow your taste buds and guests alike.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust Ingredients

  • 1 1/4 cups Butter (melted)
  • 1 1/2 cups Quick oats
  • 2 1/4 cups All-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups Brown sugar

Caramel Filling Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup Butter
  • 1 cup Brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup Milk
  • 2 teaspoons Vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons Flour

Instructions

  1. Melt the Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 1 1/4 cups of butter for about 30 seconds until completely liquid.
  2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the melted butter, quick oats, all-purpose flour, and brown sugar. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is uniform.
  3. Press the Crust Mixture: Reserve one-third of the mixture for topping. Press the remaining two-thirds firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking pan to form the base crust.
  4. Prepare the Caramel Filling: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 1/4 cup of butter, stirring continuously until the butter bubbles and is fully melted.
  5. Mix in Brown Sugar: Add 1 cup of brown sugar to the melted butter and stir until the mixture becomes completely smooth and the sugar dissolves.
  6. Add Milk and Flour: Gradually stir in 1/4 cup of milk, then mix in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons of flour to thicken the caramel.
  7. Simmer the Caramel: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 3 minutes, stirring constantly until thickened.
  8. Assemble the Bars: Pour the prepared caramel filling evenly over the cooled crust in the baking pan.
  9. Add the Crust Topping: Sprinkle the reserved one-third of crust mixture evenly over the caramel layer to create a crunchy topping.
  10. Bake to Perfection: Place the pan in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) and bake for 20 minutes, or until the top turns a light golden color.
  11. Cut and Serve: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares. Serve at room temperature for best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Ensure the caramel filling is simmered properly to achieve the right thickness for easy slicing.
  • You can substitute whole milk with cream for a richer caramel flavor.
  • Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
  • Press the crust firmly to avoid crumbling when cutting.

Keywords: Caramel bars, oat crust, dessert bars, sweet treats, caramel crush bars, easy dessert