Better Than Anything Bars
Better than anything bars are a delightful treat that everyone will love! Perfect for fall gatherings, after-school snacks, or cozy date nights, these bars combine rich chocolate and caramel flavors in each bite. Their soft and chewy texture makes them a standout dessert that is sure to impress anyone who tries them.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor – The combination of chocolate, caramel, and peanut butter creates a heavenly taste that is hard to resist.
- Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up these delicious bars with minimal effort.
- Versatile Treat – These bars are perfect for various occasions, whether it’s a family gathering, game day, or just a sweet snack at home.
- Shareable Size – Cut them into squares for easy sharing with friends and family; they’re perfect for parties or potlucks.
- Customizable Options – Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate chips or add nuts for extra crunch!
Tools and Preparation
To make Better Than Anything Bars successfully, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Baking pan (9×13)
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl – A large bowl allows plenty of space for combining ingredients without spilling.
- Baking pan – A 9×13 pan ensures even baking and the right thickness for your bars.
- Electric mixer or whisk – Helps achieve a smooth batter quickly by thoroughly mixing ingredients.
- Microwave-safe bowl – Ideal for melting caramels easily without burning them.
Ingredients
Better than anything bars are built on simple yet flavorful ingredients that come together beautifully.
For the Base
- 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
For the Topping
- 2 cups milk chocolate chips or semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 14 ounces of caramels, unwrapped (or 14 ounces of caramel bits)
- 5 ounces, canned evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
How to Make Better Than Anything Bars
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that your bars bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan
Spray a 9×13 baking pan with no-stick cooking spray to prevent the bars from sticking.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a mixing bowl, add the softened butter along with the brown and white sugars. Cream them together until fluffy.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time to the mixture. Beat well after each addition. Then pour in the vanilla extract and mix just until combined.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
Add in the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix until fully combined to create your dough.
Step 6: Stir in Chocolate Chips
Gently stir in the chocolate chips using either your hands or an electric mixer on low speed until distributed evenly throughout the dough.
Step 7: Bake Half of the Dough
Place half of this cookie dough into your prepared baking pan. Bake it for about 8-10 minutes until slightly set but not fully cooked.
Step 8: Prepare Caramel Mixture
While the dough bakes, combine unwrapped caramels and evaporated milk in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave at power level 5 for 1-2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds until melted together smoothly.
Step 9: Add Peanut Butter
Once melted, stir in the peanut butter until well blended into the caramel mixture.
Step 10: Assemble Bars
Spread the caramel-peanut butter mixture over the baked dough layer in your pan.
Step 11: Top with Remaining Dough
Using teaspoons, drop spoonfuls of the remaining dough over the caramel layer evenly.
Step 12: Final Bake
Return to oven and bake for an additional 17-20 minutes or until golden brown on top. Ensure that it’s cooked through before removing from oven.
Let these Better Than Anything Bars cool before cutting into squares to serve! Enjoy this delectable treat any time you want something sweet!
How to Serve Better Than Anything Bars
Better than anything bars are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a family movie night, or just want something sweet, these bars are sure to please.
For After School Snacks
- Cut into Small Squares: Serve smaller portions for kids to enjoy after school.
- Add Fresh Fruit: Pair with apple slices or berries for a refreshing contrast.
During Game Night
- Serve Warm: Heat them slightly before serving to enhance the gooey texture.
- Offer Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream on top creates an indulgent dessert.
At Parties
- Garnish with Whipped Cream: Top with whipped cream and a drizzle of chocolate sauce for a fancy touch.
- Create Dessert Platter: Place them on a platter alongside other desserts for variety.
As A Gift
- Wrap Individually: Wrap bars in cellophane for a thoughtful homemade gift.
- Include Recipe Card: Attach a card with the recipe for friends to try at home.
How to Perfect Better Than Anything Bars
To achieve the best results with your better than anything bars, follow these helpful tips.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix just until combined to keep the bars tender and chewy.
- Check Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is calibrated correctly for even baking.
- Cool Before Cutting: Allow bars to cool completely before cutting them into squares for cleaner edges.
Best Side Dishes for Better Than Anything Bars
While these bars are delicious on their own, they pair well with several side dishes that can enhance your dessert experience.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing balance.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture complements the gooey bars perfectly.
- Coffee or Espresso: Brewed coffee enhances the flavors and creates a cozy vibe.
- Milkshakes: Blend up some milkshakes for a fun twist alongside your dessert.
- Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: For an elegant touch, serve alongside chocolate-covered strawberries.
- Nutty Trail Mix: A crunchy mix of nuts offers a satisfying contrast to the soft bars.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Better Than Anything Bars can be easy, but a few common mistakes can ruin your dessert. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Using cold butter: Cold butter will not cream properly with the sugars, leading to a dense bar. Always use softened butter for the best texture.
- Skipping the baking time: Not baking the first layer long enough can result in a soggy base. Bake until it’s lightly golden before adding the caramel.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Incorrect measurements can alter the balance of flavors and textures. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
- Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much after adding flour can make the bars tough. Mix just until combined for soft and chewy results.
- Ignoring cooling time: Cutting into warm bars can make them fall apart. Allow them to cool completely to set properly.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Better Than Anything Bars in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.
Freezing Better Than Anything Bars
- Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Better Than Anything Bars
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds per bar or until warm.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Better Than Anything Bars.
How do I know when my Better Than Anything Bars are done?
The bars should be golden brown on top and slightly firm to the touch. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out mostly clean.
Can I customize Better Than Anything Bars?
Absolutely! You can add nuts, swap chocolate types, or experiment with different kinds of caramel for unique flavors.
What are some serving suggestions for Better Than Anything Bars?
These bars pair well with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on top for an extra treat. Serve them warm for a comforting dessert experience.
How should I store leftover Better Than Anything Bars?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.
Final Thoughts
Better Than Anything Bars are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Perfect for any occasion, these bars allow you to get creative with flavors and toppings. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy customizing it to your taste!
Better Than Anything Bars
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x
Description
Better Than Anything Bars are a must-try dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate, caramel, and peanut butter in a soft and chewy bar. Perfect for fall gatherings, cozy date nights, or after-school snacks, these bars are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them to suit your taste by adding nuts or swapping chocolate types. Each bite delivers a deliciously indulgent experience that everyone will love!
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 chocolate chips (milk or semi-sweet)
- 14 ounces caramels (unwrapped) or caramel bits
- 5 ounces canned evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
Instructions
- 1. Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a 9"x13" baking pan.
- 2. In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until fluffy.
- 3. Add eggs one at a time followed by vanilla extract; mix until combined.
- 4. Gradually add flour, baking soda, and salt; mix until just combined.
- 5. Stir in chocolate chips gently.
- 6. Spread half of the dough into the prepared pan and bake for 8-10 minutes.
- 7. While it bakes, melt caramels with evaporated milk in a microwave-safe bowl until smooth.
- 8. Stir in peanut butter until well mixed.
- 9. Once the first layer is baked, spread the caramel mixture on top, then drop spoonfuls of remaining dough over it.
- 10. Bake for an additional 17-20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
