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Homemade Candy Bars

Who doesn’t love a sweet treat? Homemade candy bars are not only delicious but also super fun to make! Whether you want to impress your friends or simply satisfy your own sweet tooth, this recipe will be a hit. With a mix of crunchy, creamy, and chewy textures, these candy bars will become your new favorite dessert.

Why make this recipe?

Making your own candy bars allows you to customize them according to your taste. You can experiment with different fillings, toppings, and even chocolate coatings. Plus, there’s something deeply satisfying about creating a delightful treat from scratch. Gathering your friends or family and creating these bars together can also be a fun activity! 🍫✨

How to prepare Homemade Candy Bars

Get ready to indulge in a world of sweetness. Follow these steps to create your very own homemade candy bars!

Ingredients:

70 square-shaped pretzels 🥨
2/3 cup crunchy peanut butter 🥜
3 tablespoons powdered sugar 🍬
25 unwrapped caramels 🍬
2 1/2 tablespoons heavy cream 🥛
3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips 🍫
1 tablespoon vegetable oil 🥄
1 cup all-purpose flour 🌾
1/2 cup unsalted butter 🧈
1/3 cup granulated sugar 🍚
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 🌿
1/4 teaspoon salt 🧂
10 ounces soft caramel candies 🍬
12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate baking bars 🍫
1/2 cup heavy cream for chocolate layer 🥛
8 ounces cream cheese 🧀
2 tablespoons salted butter 🧈
1 teaspoon coconut extract 🌴
4 cups powdered sugar 🍬
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut 🥥
60 whole almonds 🌰
14 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips for Reese’s 🍫
1 cup creamy peanut butter 🥜
6 tablespoons powdered sugar 🍬
4 tablespoons butter 🧈

Instructions:

Prepare the base layer: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup unsalted butter, 1/3 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 cup all-purpose flour until a dough forms. Press this dough into the bottom of a greased baking pan and bake for 15 minutes.
Add the peanut butter layer: Melt 2/3 cup crunchy peanut butter and mix with 3 tablespoons powdered sugar until smooth. Spread this mixture over the baked crust.
Prepare the caramel layer: In a saucepan, combine 25 unwrapped caramels and 2 1/2 tablespoons heavy cream over low heat. Stir until melted and smooth. Pour this layer over the peanut butter layer.
Make the chocolate layer: Melt 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips with 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Stir until smooth, then pour over the caramel layer. Spread evenly.
Chill and cut: Refrigerate the assembled candy bars for at least 2 hours or until set. Once firm, cut into squares.
Optional topping: For an extra touch, you can sprinkle shredded coconut and place whole almonds on top before the chocolate layer sets.

How to serve Homemade Candy Bars

Serve these homemade candy bars chilled or at room temperature. They make a delightful treat for parties, gatherings, or just for a cozy night in. Pair them with a glass of milk or coffee for the perfect indulgence. 🥛🍪

How to store Homemade Candy Bars

Keep your homemade candy bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last up to two weeks, but we doubt they will last that long with how delicious they are! 😋

Tips for preparing Homemade Candy Bars

Make sure to use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor.
Customize your layers; feel free to add more nuts, dried fruit, or even your favorite candy!
Let the layers cool slightly before pouring the next one for better results.

Variations

You can easily modify the ingredients to create your favorite flavor combinations. Consider adding:

Mint extract for a refreshing twist.
Crushed cookies in the chocolate layer for added crunch.
Dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for a fruity touch. 🍒🍇

FAQs

Q: Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet?
A: Yes, you can use milk chocolate for a sweeter taste!

Q: Are these candy bars suitable for gluten-free diets?
A: To make them gluten-free, use gluten-free flour and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Q: How do I make the peanut butter layer less sweet?
A: You can reduce the amount of powdered sugar or use natural peanut butter with no added sugar.

Enjoy making your homemade candy bars, and have fun with the creative process! 🍬🍫