When you’re craving something sweet, gooey, crunchy, and chocolatey—but don’t want to turn on the oven—these Caramel Chocolate Crunch Bars are your answer. With just a handful of ingredients and zero baking required, these layered bars deliver big flavor with minimal effort.

Why I Love This Recipe

These bars remind me of my favorite candy bars, but made fresh at home. They’re a mash-up of buttery caramel, crispy cereal, and smooth chocolate—all in one ridiculously good bite. Perfect for bake sales, potlucks, or late-night cravings, they’re dangerously easy to whip up.

Ingredients

• 3 cups crispy rice cereal
• 1 cup crushed pretzels
• 1½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup caramel bits or soft caramels (unwrapped)
• 2 tbsp heavy cream
• 2 tbsp butter
• Flaky sea salt (optional)

Swaps and Notes

• Cereal: Swap in cornflakes or crushed graham crackers for a different crunch.
• Chocolate: Use dark or milk chocolate depending on your preference.
• Caramel: You can make homemade caramel if you’re feeling fancy—but store-bought melts perfectly with cream.

How to Make Caramel Chocolate Crunch Bars

1. Prep the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang for easy lifting.
2. Make the Crunch Base: In a large bowl, combine rice cereal and crushed pretzels. Set aside.
3. Melt Caramel: In a saucepan over low heat, melt the caramel bits with butter and cream, stirring until smooth.
4. Combine and Press: Pour caramel over the cereal mixture and stir quickly to coat. Press into the prepared pan in an even layer.
5. Top with Chocolate: Melt chocolate chips in the microwave or double boiler, then spread over the caramel layer.
6. Chill and Set: Sprinkle with sea salt if desired. Refrigerate for 1–2 hours until set. Cut into bars and serve.

Tips for Success

• Work quickly when mixing caramel into the cereal to avoid setting.
• Use parchment paper for clean removal and slicing.
• Chill thoroughly before cutting to get clean, sharp edges.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Serve these rich bars with lighter or festive companions:

• Pair with Pumpkin Delight for a sweet spread of textures.
• Add to a dessert table with Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups.
• Include with Brownie Batter Dip for a chocolate lover’s dream.

Storage and Leftover Tips

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Freezer: Freeze individual bars for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature.

More Recipes You’ll Love

• Caramel Apple Pie Cookies for a fall-inspired chewy treat.
• Copycat Neiman Marcus Chocolate Chip Cookies for a classic, chewy indulgence.

Final Thoughts

Caramel Chocolate Crunch Bars are everything a dessert should be—fast, fun, and impossible to resist. Keep them in your fridge for when cravings strike or double the batch for your next party. No matter the occasion, these bars bring big smiles with every bite.

Tried the recipe? Tag me in your creations and let me know your favorite add-ins or swaps! And don’t forget to follow for more no-bake treats and crave-worthy desserts.