These irresistible caramel crunch bars deliver layers of buttery crackers, a gooey caramel-like filling, and a smooth chocolate–butterscotch topping. They come together quickly, require no baking, and chill into perfect soft-crunchy squares ideal for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These bars combine simple pantry staples into a wonderfully rich treat with minimal effort. The stovetop caramel filling pairs beautifully with the crisp cracker layers, while the chocolate–butterscotch topping adds a creamy finish. They’re easy, no-bake, great for warm weather, and always a crowd favorite.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
80 club crackers
1 cup (227 g) butter
2 cups (200 g) graham cracker crumbs
1 cup (212 g) firmly packed brown sugar
1/2 cup milk
1/3 cup (71 g) granulated sugar
2/3 cup (170 g) creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup (85 g) semisweet chocolate morsels
1/1/2 cup (85 g) butterscotch morsels
Directions
Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with foil, leaving enough overhang to lift out the finished bars. Arrange a single layer of club crackers over the bottom.
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, milk, and granulated sugar.
Bring the mixture to a boil. As soon as it begins bubbling, boil for 5 minutes, stirring constantly.
Remove from heat and spread half of the hot mixture evenly over the cracker layer.
Add another single layer of crackers over the caramel mixture. Spread the remaining caramel mixture on top. Add one final layer of crackers.
In a small saucepan or in the microwave, melt the peanut butter, semisweet chocolate morsels, and butterscotch morsels together over medium-low heat, stirring until smooth.
Pour and spread this mixture evenly over the top cracker layer.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, then lift the slab out of the pan using the foil. Cut into bars and keep chilled until serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields 24 bars.
Prep time: approximately 1 hour 10 minutes (includes cooling).
Cook time: about 8 minutes.
Total time: roughly 1 hour 18 minutes.
Variations
– Use dark chocolate chips for a deeper, less sweet topping.
– Swap creamy peanut butter for crunchy to add extra texture.
– Add a sprinkle of flaky salt on top before chilling for a sweet-salty finish.
– Mix in 1/4 cup finely chopped nuts with the caramel layer for added crunch.
Storage/Reheating
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. They remain soft even when chilled.
For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months; separate layers with parchment to prevent sticking. Thaw in the refrigerator. These bars do not require reheating—serve chilled or at room temperature.
FAQs
How firm should the caramel layer be after boiling?
It should be thick and glossy but still spreadable. Boiling for the full 5 minutes ensures it sets properly.
Can I substitute another type of cracker?
Yes, any crisp buttery cracker works well as long as it is not flavored.
Do these bars freeze well?
Yes. Freeze cut bars in a single layer, then store them stacked with parchment between each layer.
Can I reduce the sweetness?
You can use dark chocolate morsels and reduce the brown sugar by up to 1/4 cup, though the texture may be slightly softer.
What can I use instead of peanut butter?
Almond or cashew butter works as long as it is not too runny.
Why did my topping separate?
Overheating chocolate can cause separation. Melt slowly and stir constantly.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes. They can be made 2–3 days in advance and kept chilled until serving.
Do the crackers stay crisp?
Yes, they soften slightly but maintain a pleasant crunch within the caramel layers.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Use certified gluten-free crackers and gluten-free graham crumbs.
How should I cut the bars cleanly?
Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water, wiping between cuts.
Conclusion
These caramel crunch bars deliver a delightful balance of creamy, crunchy, and chocolatey layers—perfect for parties, potlucks, or keeping in the fridge for whenever a sweet craving hits. With no baking required and just a few simple steps, they’re an easy treat that tastes impressively indulgent.
These no-bake Caramel Crunch Bars feature layers of buttery crackers, a rich caramel-like filling, and a smooth chocolate–butterscotch–peanut butter topping. A quick, crowd-pleasing treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
80 club crackers
1 cup (227 g) unsalted butter
2 cups (200 g) graham cracker crumbs
1 cup (212 g) firmly packed brown sugar
1/2 cup milk
1/3 cup (71 g) granulated sugar
2/3 cup (170 g) creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup (85 g) semisweet chocolate morsels
1 1/2 cup (255 g) butterscotch morsels
Instructions
Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with foil, leaving overhang to lift out later. Arrange a single layer of club crackers over the bottom.
In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, milk, and granulated sugar.
Bring to a boil and cook for 5 minutes, stirring constantly.
Spread half of the hot mixture evenly over the cracker layer.
Add another layer of crackers, then spread the remaining caramel mixture. Top with a final layer of crackers.
In a small saucepan or microwave, melt peanut butter, semisweet chocolate morsels, and butterscotch morsels over low heat, stirring until smooth.
Pour and spread evenly over the top cracker layer.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Once chilled, lift the bars out of the pan and cut into squares. Keep refrigerated until serving.
Notes
Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water for clean slicing.
Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the topping before chilling for a sweet-salty finish.
Can be frozen for up to 2 months—place parchment between layers.
Don’t overheat chocolate to avoid separation; stir gently while melting.
