Name: Caramel Chocolate Crunch Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups crisp rice cereal (such as Rice Krispies); 11 oz caramels, unwrapped; 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk; 1/4 cup butter; 2 cups semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips; Optional: pinch of sea salt for garnish

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These bars hit all the right notes—sweet, salty, chewy, and crunchy. They’re incredibly easy to prepare with just a handful of ingredients and no oven required. Each bite delivers layers of texture and flavor, from the crispy base to the luscious caramel and silky chocolate topping.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Crisp rice cereal (like Rice Krispies)
Caramels (unwrapped)
Sweetened condensed milk
Butter
Semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips
Sea salt (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Line an 8×8 or 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
In a large bowl, pour the crisp rice cereal and set aside.
In a saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the caramels, sweetened condensed milk, and butter together, stirring frequently until smooth and combined.
Pour the hot caramel mixture over the cereal and stir until fully coated.
Press the mixture firmly into the prepared baking pan and smooth out the top.
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until fully melted and smooth.
Spread the melted chocolate evenly over the caramel layer.
Optional: Sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt while the chocolate is still warm.
Let the bars cool completely at room temperature or refrigerate for faster setting.
Once set, slice into squares or bars and serve.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 16 bars.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooling time: 1–2 hours
Total time: approximately 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

Add chopped nuts like pecans or almonds to the cereal mixture for extra crunch.
Use dark chocolate or white chocolate chips for a flavor twist.
Add a layer of peanut butter between the caramel and chocolate for a nutty version.
Stir in mini marshmallows or toffee bits for additional texture.
Drizzle caramel or melted white chocolate over the top for decoration.

Storage/Reheating

Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for up to 1 week.
To freeze, place bars in a single layer in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
These bars are best served at room temperature and do not require reheating.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of melting caramels?

It’s not recommended—store-bought sauces are often too thin. Melted caramels with condensed milk provide the right thickness.

What type of cereal works best?

Crisp rice cereal works best for a light, crunchy texture, but cornflakes can be a good substitute.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can try using dairy-free butter, coconut milk condensed milk, and dairy-free chocolate chips.

Can I use homemade caramel?

Yes, as long as it’s thick enough to hold its shape in the bars.

How do I cut the bars without cracking the chocolate?

Let the bars come to room temperature before slicing and use a sharp knife warmed under hot water.

Do I need to refrigerate the bars?

Only if you want them to set quickly or store longer. Otherwise, room temperature storage is fine.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double all ingredients and use a 9×13 inch pan for a larger batch.

How long do the bars take to set?

They typically take 1–2 hours to set at room temperature or about 30–45 minutes in the fridge.

Can I add a salty element?

Yes, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on the chocolate layer adds a delicious sweet-salty balance.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, just be sure to use certified gluten-free rice cereal and check all other ingredients.

Conclusion

Caramel Chocolate Crunch Bars are a simple yet indulgent treat that’s easy to love and even easier to make. With layers of rich caramel, crispy cereal, and smooth chocolate, they offer a satisfying combination of textures and flavors. Whether you’re making a treat for a crowd or just satisfying a craving, these bars are a guaranteed hit.