Peanut-Caramel Bars With Chocolate | Kookmutsjes
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Indulge in the delightful combination of crunchy peanuts and smooth caramel, all enveloped in rich chocolate with our Peanut-Caramel Bars.
This recipe for Peanut-Caramel Bars combines the rich flavors of caramel and chocolate with the crunch of peanuts, creating a sweet treat that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy these bars as a snack or dessert!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy peanuts
- Sweet and salty caramel that complements the chocolate
- Perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying as a personal treat
The Perfect Treat for Any Occasion
Peanut-Caramel Bars with Chocolate are not just a dessert; they are a celebration of flavors and textures. Whether you're hosting a party, packing a lunch, or simply indulging at home, these bars are versatile enough to suit any occasion. Their unique blend of sweet and salty flavors makes them an instant crowd-pleaser, ensuring that they disappear quickly from any gathering.
These bars are also an excellent choice for special celebrations like birthdays or holidays. Their rich chocolate coating and caramel layers give them an elegant presentation, making them perfect for impressing guests. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy more time with your loved ones and less time in the kitchen.
Healthier Indulgence
While these bars are undeniably a treat, they also contain wholesome ingredients like roasted peanuts. Peanuts are not only delicious but also packed with protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. This means that while you indulge in the sweet layers of caramel and chocolate, you're also enjoying some nutritional benefits.
Furthermore, by making these bars at home, you can control the ingredients, ensuring they meet your dietary preferences. You can even substitute ingredients, such as using dark chocolate for a richer flavor or opting for organic sugar for a healthier choice.
Tips for Success
To achieve the best results with your Peanut-Caramel Bars, be sure to measure your ingredients precisely. This is particularly important when making the caramel, as the right ratio of sugar to corn syrup is crucial for achieving that perfect chewy texture. Additionally, stir continuously while heating to prevent burning and ensure a smooth consistency.
When pouring the melted chocolate over the caramel mixture, use a spatula to spread it evenly. If the chocolate starts to set too quickly, you can gently reheat it to maintain a pourable consistency. Allowing the bars to set at room temperature can enhance their flavor, as the chocolate has time to meld with the caramel.
Ingredients
For the Bars
- 1 cup roasted peanuts
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup corn syrup
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start.
Instructions
Prepare the Caramel
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, corn syrup, and butter. Stir continuously until the mixture comes to a boil.
Add Vanilla and Peanuts
Once boiling, remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and peanuts. Mix well to coat the peanuts.
Pour into a Pan
Spread the peanut-caramel mixture into a greased baking dish and let it cool for about 10 minutes.
Melt the Chocolate
While the caramel is cooling, melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
Top with Chocolate
Pour the melted chocolate over the cooled caramel mixture, spreading it evenly. Let it set at room temperature or refrigerate for faster results.
Cut and Serve
Once the chocolate has hardened, cut into bars and enjoy!
Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
Storage and Shelf Life
These Peanut-Caramel Bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you prefer a longer shelf life, consider refrigerating them, which can keep them fresh for up to two weeks. Just be aware that refrigeration may alter the texture slightly, making the chocolate a bit firmer.
For an even longer storage solution, you can freeze the bars. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature for a delightful treat.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. For a more decadent experience, consider pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The combination of warm, chocolatey bars with cold ice cream creates a delightful contrast that is sure to impress.
You can also cut the bars into smaller pieces for bite-sized treats at parties or gatherings. Serve them with coffee or tea for an afternoon snack that your guests will rave about. Their rich flavors complement beverages beautifully, making them a perfect addition to any dessert table.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use different nuts?
Yes, you can substitute peanuts with almonds or walnuts.
→ How should I store these bars?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
→ Can I make these bars in advance?
Absolutely! They can be made a few days in advance and stored until you're ready to serve.
→ What can I use instead of corn syrup?
You can use honey or maple syrup as a substitute.
Peanut-Caramel Bars With Chocolate | Kookmutsjes
Indulge in the delightful combination of crunchy peanuts and smooth caramel, all enveloped in rich chocolate with our Peanut-Caramel Bars.
Created by: Emily Carter
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 12 bars
What You'll Need
For the Bars
- 1 cup roasted peanuts
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup corn syrup
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chocolate chips
How-To Steps
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, corn syrup, and butter. Stir continuously until the mixture comes to a boil.
Once boiling, remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and peanuts. Mix well to coat the peanuts.
Spread the peanut-caramel mixture into a greased baking dish and let it cool for about 10 minutes.
While the caramel is cooling, melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
Pour the melted chocolate over the cooled caramel mixture, spreading it evenly. Let it set at room temperature or refrigerate for faster results.
Once the chocolate has hardened, cut into bars and enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g