Introduction
Some desserts are delicious. Some are easy. These Cake Mix Toffee Bars? They’re both. With only a handful of pantry staples and no mixer required, you can whip up an irresistibly gooey, buttery, crunchy treat in just minutes. Perfect for potlucks, bake sales, or simply spoiling yourself on a weeknight—this is the recipe you’ll keep coming back to.
Why I Love This Recipe
- It starts with cake mix – no measuring flour, sugar, or leaveners.
- Insanely gooey center thanks to sweetened condensed milk.
- Toffee + chocolate = flavor fireworks in every bite.
- Customizable with mix-ins like nuts, coconut, or white chocolate.
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted 🧈
- 1 large egg 🍳
- 1 cup toffee bits (like Heath or Skor) 🍬
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk 🥛
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips 🍫
- 1 tsp vanilla extract 🍦
Directions
1. Prep the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line with parchment for easy cleanup.
2. Make the Dough Base
In a large bowl, mix the cake mix, melted butter, and egg until a soft dough forms. It’ll be thick—almost like cookie dough.
3. Layer It Up
Press two-thirds of the dough into the bottom of your prepared pan to form a solid base.
Sprinkle the toffee bits evenly across this layer.
4. Make the Gooey Chocolate Filling
In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, and vanilla extract. Stir constantly until smooth and melted.
Pour the chocolate mixture evenly over the toffee bits.
5. Crumble & Bake
Crumble the remaining dough over the top in chunks. It won’t cover the whole surface—and that’s okay!
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and the edges are bubbly.
6. Cool & Slice
Let the bars cool completely in the pan (this step is crucial for clean slices). Once cooled, cut into squares or bars and serve.
Tips for Success
- Use parchment paper: It makes lifting and slicing a breeze.
- Cool completely: These bars set as they cool, so don’t rush the process.
- Use a serrated knife: It cuts through the chewy toffee better.
- Chop toffee bits for extra spreadability if you’re using full candy bars.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
These are rich, so a little goes a long way. Pair with:
- A glass of cold milk
- Hot coffee or espresso
- Or a refreshing drink like this Pumpkin Delight Dessert for a seasonal duo
Hosting a dessert table? Add crowd-pleasers like:
- No-Bake Oreo Cream Pie
- Copycat Neiman Marcus Cookies
- Easy Coconut Macaroons
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs
Storage & Leftovers
- Room Temp: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Fridge: Keeps well for up to 1 week (slightly firmer texture).
- Freezer: Freeze in a single layer for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temp.
More Recipes You’ll Love
- This Pumpkin Delight Dessert
- Easy Coconut Macaroons
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs
- Copycat Neiman Marcus Chocolate Chip Cookies
- No-Bake Oreo Cream Pie
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a chewy, chocolatey, indulgent dessert that requires almost no measuring, these Cake Mix Toffee Bars are your golden ticket. Quick to make, impossible to resist, and perfect for anyone who loves shortcuts that don’ttaste like shortcuts.
💬 Let us know how they turned out in the comments, and don’t forget to tag @ChefManiac when you share your sweet success!
Leave a Reply