If you’re searching for a dessert that truly lives up to its name, you’ve found it with these Better Than Anything Bars! Imagine warm layers of buttery dough, gooey caramel, and rich chocolate melded together to create a symphony of flavors with each bite. This dessert feels like a warm hug after a long day and is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a little something sweet to lift your spirits. Not only does it satisfy your cravings, but it also strikes a balance between comfort and nutrition, without requiring hours in the kitchen. Quick and easy, this recipe allows you to whip up a decadent treat while keeping your weeknight routine intact.
Serving Versatility
These bars are wonderfully versatile! Serve them warm with a scoop of ice cream for a classic dessert experience, or enjoy them solo anytime you need a sweet treat. They can be cut into small squares for a delightful addition to a potluck or served alongside fresh fruit for a more balanced snack. No matter how you choose to enjoy them, these Better Than Anything Bars are sure to impress.
Full Recipe Section
Ingredients:
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup white sugar
- 2 medium eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups milk chocolate chips or semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 14 ounces of caramels, unwrapped
- 5 ounces canned evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
Directions:
Preparing the Cookie Dough:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet mixture until just combined.
Making the Caramel Sauce:
- In a saucepan over low heat, combine the unwrapped caramels and evaporated milk. Stir until melted and smooth.
Assembling the Bars:
- Spread half of the cookie dough mixture into the prepared baking pan.
- Pour the melted caramel mixture over the cookie layer, spreading it evenly.
- Drop spoonfuls of the remaining cookie dough over the caramel. Don’t worry if it doesn’t cover completely; it will spread while baking.
Finishing Touches:
- Sprinkle chocolate chips on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool before cutting into squares.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 24 bars
Calories per serving: Approximately 210 calories
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation means you can satisfy your sweet tooth in no time.
- Budget-friendly ingredients make this dessert easy on the wallet.
- Big, cozy flavor bursts with each bite.
- Nutritional value from ingredients like peanut butter adds a twist of goodness.
- Customizable with different types of chocolate or add-ins of your choice.
Cultural or Cooking Technique Note
These bars draw inspiration from traditional cookie dough desserts, allowing you to enjoy the classic flavors with the modern twist of gooey caramel. It’s a touch of nostalgia with every bite, reminding us that some things never go out of style.
Serving Suggestions
- Top with a scoop of whipped cream for an extra layer of sweetness.
- Pair with fresh berries for a delicious contrast.
- Drizzle with chocolate sauce to take it over the top.
- Serve warm with a dollop of ice cream for a cozy night treat.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use room temperature butter for the best texture in your dough.
- Be careful not to overmix once you add the flour to keep the bars tender.
- If your caramel is too thick, add a splash of evaporated milk to reach the perfect consistency.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for about a week or in the freezer for up to three months. When reheating, place them in the microwave for a few seconds to regain that warm, gooey texture.
With this easy Better Than Anything Bars recipe, you have the perfect sweet ending to any meal or a delicious snack for munching throughout the day. I can’t wait for you to try it out! Feel free to put your spin on it and let your creativity shine. If you enjoy making these bars, I’d love for you to share your thoughts, rate the recipe, or drop a comment below!
Final Thoughts
As you gather around the table, remember that every dish tells a story, and these bars are here to add a joyful chapter to your kitchen adventures. Happy baking, and may your creations fill your home with warmth and love!
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Better Than Anything Bars
Ingredients
Cookie Dough Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, softened Use room temperature butter for best texture.
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup white sugar
- 2 medium eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
Caramel and Toppings
- 2 cups milk chocolate chips or semi-sweet chocolate chips Customizable with different types of chocolate.
- 14 ounces caramels, unwrapped
- 5 ounces canned evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup peanut butter Adds nutritional value.
Instructions
Preparing the Cookie Dough
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet mixture until just combined.
Making the Caramel Sauce
- In a saucepan over low heat, combine the unwrapped caramels and evaporated milk. Stir until melted and smooth.
Assembling the Bars
- Spread half of the cookie dough mixture into the prepared baking pan.
- Pour the melted caramel mixture over the cookie layer, spreading it evenly.
- Drop spoonfuls of the remaining cookie dough over the caramel. Don’t worry if it doesn’t cover completely; it will spread while baking.
Finishing Touches
- Sprinkle chocolate chips on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool before cutting into squares.