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Irresistible Homemade Chunky Candy Bars

homemade chunky candy bars - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for rich, chunky candy bars layered with a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy caramel, and a crunchy chocolate-nut topping. Perfect for homemade indulgence without complicated baking.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (120g) graham cracker crumbs or digestive biscuits, crushed
  • ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 cup (320g) soft caramel candies or store-bought caramel sauce
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
  • 1 cup (120g) roasted peanuts or mixed nuts, chopped
  • 1 cup (175g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • ¼ cup (30g) shredded coconut (optional)
  • Sea salt flakes for sprinkling (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until mixture resembles wet sand. Press evenly into the bottom of a greased 8×8 inch baking pan.
  2. Bake the base layer for 10 minutes, then remove and let cool slightly.
  3. Melt caramel candies with heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second bursts, stirring until smooth and pourable. Stir in vanilla extract if using.
  4. Pour warm caramel evenly over the cooled crust and spread gently with a spatula.
  5. Sprinkle chopped nuts, chocolate chips, and shredded coconut evenly over the caramel layer.
  6. Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 8-10 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to soften the chocolate slightly.
  7. Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle with sea salt flakes if desired. Let cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
  8. Cut into bars using a sharp knife, wiping the knife between slices for clean cuts. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Notes

Use soft caramel candies or smooth caramel sauce for easier melting. Toast nuts lightly before chopping for enhanced flavor. Chill candy bars fully before slicing for clean cuts. For gluten-free, substitute graham crackers with gluten-free cookies or almond flour. For dairy-free, use coconut oil and vegan caramel sauce. Avoid overbaking the topping to maintain texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: chunky candy bars, homemade candy bars, layered candy bars, easy candy recipe, caramel candy bars, chocolate candy bars, no-bake candy bars, quick dessert