Caramel Espresso Bars
Indulging in the delightful combination of rich caramel and bold espresso, these Caramel Espresso Bars are not just a treat; they are a culinary experience that captures the essence of comfort and satisfaction. Each bite offers a perfect balance of sweetness and depth, making them an irresistible addition to your dessert repertoire. Whether you are hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these bars are sure to impress.
Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing
Caramel Espresso Bars are a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that appeal to a wide range of palates. The crunchy base made from graham cracker crumbs provides a satisfying contrast to the gooey caramel and the robust espresso layer that follows. The sweetness of the caramel is beautifully complemented by the coffee’s bitterness, making it a perfect dessert for coffee lovers and caramel enthusiasts alike. Plus, they are easy to make and can be cut into squares for easy serving, making them perfect for parties, potlucks, or a cozy night in.
Gather These Ingredients
To create these delectable Caramel Espresso Bars, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 rectangles)
- ¾ cup sugar
- 6 ounces butter, melted (1 ½ sticks)
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons instant espresso powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
Gear Up: What to Grab
Before you start, make sure you have the following kitchen tools handy:
- Baking dish (9×9-inch recommended for thicker bars)
- Mixing bowls (for combining ingredients)
- Whisk or spoon (for stirring together the mixture)
- Measuring cups and spoons (for accurate measurements)
- Parchment paper (for easy removal of bars)
The Method for Caramel Espresso Bars
Follow these simple steps to create your own Caramel Espresso Bars:
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
Step 2: Make the Base
In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form an even layer.
Step 3: Prepare the Caramel Mixture
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, instant espresso powder, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir continuously until the mixture is well combined and begins to simmer. Allow it to cook for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly.
Step 4: Layer the Caramel
Pour the caramel mixture over the graham cracker base in the baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Step 5: Bake
Bake the bars in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the caramel is bubbly and the edges are lightly golden.
Step 6: Cool and Slice
Once out of the oven, let the bars cool in the baking dish for at least 30 minutes. Then, lift the bars out using the parchment paper overhang and transfer them to a cutting board. Slice into squares and enjoy!
Smart Substitutions
If you’re looking to customize your Caramel Espresso Bars, consider these substitutions:
- Graham cracker crumbs: Use digestive biscuits or gluten-free graham crackers for a gluten-free option.
- Butter: Coconut oil can be used for a dairy-free alternative.
- Instant espresso powder: Brewed espresso can be used, but adjust the quantity to your taste.
- Brown sugar: Coconut sugar is a great substitute for a more natural sweetener.
Pro Tips & Notes
- For a richer flavor, use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar.
- Let the bars cool completely before slicing for clean edges.
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days.
- Feel free to sprinkle some sea salt on top of the caramel layer before baking for an added flavor dimension.
Keep-It-Fresh Plan
To keep your Caramel Espresso Bars fresh and delicious:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days.
- For longer storage, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
Common Qs About Caramel Espresso Bars
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars can be made a day or two in advance. Just make sure to store them properly to maintain freshness.
What can I use if I don’t have instant espresso powder?
If you don’t have instant espresso powder, you can use finely ground coffee or brewed espresso, just be cautious with the amount as it may alter the consistency of the caramel.
Can I add nuts to the bars?
Yes! Chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans can be mixed into the graham cracker base or sprinkled on top of the caramel layer before baking for added texture.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when the caramel is bubbly and the edges are lightly golden. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
Serve with These
Elevate your dessert experience by serving your Caramel Espresso Bars with:
Ready to Cook?
Now that you have all the information you need, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! These Caramel Espresso Bars are the perfect dessert for any occasion, and they are sure to become a favorite among friends and family. Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to savor every delicious bite!
The combination of graham cracker crust, rich caramel, and espresso is simply divine. You’ll find that these Caramel Espresso Bars are not only scrumptious but also incredibly satisfying. Happy baking!
Caramel Espresso Bars
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x9-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form an even layer.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, instant espresso powder, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir continuously until the mixture is well combined and begins to simmer. Allow it to cook for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly.
- Pour the caramel mixture over the graham cracker base in the baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake the bars in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the caramel is bubbly and the edges are lightly golden.
- Once out of the oven, let the bars cool in the baking dish for at least 30 minutes. Then, lift the bars out using the parchment paper overhang and transfer them to a cutting board. Slice into squares and enjoy!
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar.
- Let the bars cool completely before slicing for clean edges.
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days.
- Feel free to sprinkle some sea salt on top of the caramel layer before baking for an added flavor dimension.
