Butterfinger Caramel Bars

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that’s both fun and easy to make, let me introduce you to my beloved Butterfinger Caramel Bars! These delightful bars combine the crunchy goodness of Butterfinger with a luscious layer of gooey caramel and fluffy vegan marshmallows, all on a graham cracker base. They are perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want to whip up something special without spending hours in the kitchen.

What I love most about these bars is how they bring everyone together. Whether it’s an after-school snack, a potluck dessert, or just a little indulgence for yourself, these Butterfinger Caramel Bars are sure to delight. You can make them ahead of time and have a delicious treat ready to go whenever the craving hits!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these bars in no time.
• Family-Friendly Treat: Kids and adults alike will adore the sweet and crunchy layers in every bite.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare them in advance so you always have a tasty dessert on hand.
• Delicious Flavor Combination: The mix of creamy caramel, crunchy Butterfinger, and soft marshmallows creates an irresistible flavor explosion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create your new favorite dessert. Get ready to gather them up!

For the Base:

• 6 1/2 graham crackers

For the Layers:

• 2 cups mini vegan marshmallows
• 1 bag (11 oz caramel bits)
• 2 Tbsp milk

For Topping:

• 1 bag (10 oz Butterfinger Bites, coarsely chopped)
• 2 oz semi-sweet chocolate (for drizzling)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ideas to customize your Butterfinger Caramel Bars:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped nuts like pecans or almonds for extra crunch.
• Use Different Candy: Swap out Butterfinger Bites for your favorite candy bars or chocolate pieces.
• Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers to make this treat accessible for everyone.
• Make It Nut-Free: Simply skip any nut toppings if you’re catering to allergies.

How to Make Butterfinger Caramel Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Start by lining a 9×9 inch baking pan with foil. Make sure the foil extends over the edges so you can easily lift out the bars later. A quick spray with cooking spray will help prevent sticking.

Step 2: Layer the Base

Arrange your graham crackers snugly at the bottom of the pan. Feel free to break them into pieces as needed; this will create a sturdy base for your delicious layers.

Step 3: Add Vegan Marshmallows

Evenly distribute those fluffy mini vegan marshmallows over the graham cracker layer. This is where the fun starts—these marshmallows will create that lovely gooey texture we all crave!

Step 4: Melt Caramel

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine your caramel bits with milk. Microwave for one minute, then stir. Continue heating in 30-second bursts until it’s completely melted and smooth—this part makes everything extra delicious!

Step 5: Pour and Spread Caramel

Drizzle that luscious melted caramel over your marshmallows, spreading it gently to cover everything evenly. Don’t worry if the marshmallows soften; that’s just what we want!

Step 6: Butterfinger Layer

Now it’s time for the star of the show! Sprinkle those chopped Butterfinger pieces over the caramel layer. Press them down lightly into the mixture so they set beautifully once chilled.

Step 7: Melt Chocolate

In another microwave-safe bowl, melt your semi-sweet chocolate using 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. This drizzle will add not only flavor but also a gorgeous finish!

Step 8: Chocolate Drizzle

Artfully drizzle that melted chocolate over your Butterfinger layer. Let your creativity shine here—everyone loves a pretty dessert!

Step 9: Chill

Pop your pan into the refrigerator for about an hour until everything is nicely set. This waiting game is worth every moment!

Step 10: Slice and Enjoy

Once set, use those handy foil edges to lift out your bars. Cut them into squares or rectangles, and get ready for them to disappear faster than you can say “Butterfinger Caramel Bars!”

Pro Tips for Making Butterfinger Caramel Bars

Creating the perfect Butterfinger Caramel Bars is easier than you might think! Here are some handy tips to ensure your bars turn out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always check the expiration dates on your graham crackers and vegan marshmallows. Fresh ingredients will give you the best flavor and texture.
• Microwave in Intervals: When melting your caramel and chocolate, microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently. This prevents burning and ensures a smooth consistency that’s easy to work with.
• Press Firmly: After adding the Butterfinger pieces, make sure to press them lightly into the caramel mixture. This helps them stay embedded and makes for easier slicing later on.
• Chill Thoroughly: Don’t rush the chilling process! Letting your bars set in the refrigerator for a full hour ensures they firm up nicely, making them easier to cut into perfect squares.
• Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to get creative! Try drizzling some nut butter or sprinkling crushed nuts over the top for added flavor and texture.

How to Serve Butterfinger Caramel Bars

These Butterfinger Caramel Bars are not only delicious but also visually appealing! Presenting them well can make any gathering feel special. Here are some fun ways to serve them.

Garnishes

• Whipped Coconut Cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a delightful creaminess that complements the rich bars.
• Chocolate Shavings: Sprinkle some chocolate shavings on top for an extra touch of elegance and a hint of bitterness to balance the sweetness.
• Chopped Nuts: Add some chopped peanuts or almonds as a garnish for a crunchy contrast that enhances the overall flavor profile.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing counterpoint to the rich flavors of the bars, making it a perfect companion.
• Vegan Ice Cream: Serve these bars alongside a scoop of your favorite vegan ice cream. The creamy texture pairs wonderfully with the chewy caramel and crunchy Butterfingers.
• Coffee or Herbal Tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea can enhance dessert time, offering a lovely contrast to the sweetness of the bars.
• Popcorn with Nutritional Yeast: For a fun twist, serve with popcorn sprinkled with nutritional yeast. The savory notes will balance out any excess sweetness from the dessert.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Butterfinger Caramel Bars are sure to be a hit at any occasion! Enjoy every delightful bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Butterfinger Caramel Bars are perfect for meal prep, as they can be made ahead of time and stored for later enjoyment. With their delicious layers and sweet crunch, you’ll be glad to have a batch ready when cravings strike!

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• If stacked, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• Cut the bars into individual pieces before freezing for easy access.
• Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just thaw them at room temperature before enjoying!

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat these bars, as they are delightful served chilled or at room temperature.
• If you prefer warm bars, microwave them for about 10-15 seconds until just warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Butterfinger Caramel Bars.

Can I use regular marshmallows instead of vegan marshmallows?

Absolutely! While this recipe is designed with vegan marshmallows in mind, regular marshmallows will work just fine. Just note that it will no longer be vegan.

What are Butterfinger Caramel Bars?

Butterfinger Caramel Bars are a delicious dessert made with layers of graham crackers, mini marshmallows, melted caramel, and crushed Butterfinger candy pieces. They’re sweet, chewy, and absolutely irresistible!

How do I store Butterfinger Caramel Bars?

Store your Butterfinger Caramel Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate them for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them wrapped individually.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free graham crackers and ensure that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to make these Butterfinger Caramel Bars as I was! They’re a delightful combination of textures and flavors that everyone will love. Whether you’re preparing a fun treat for yourself or sharing them with friends and family, these bars are sure to bring smiles all around. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to get creative with toppings or add-ins! Happy baking!