These Knock You Bars are the ultimate treat for dessert lovers. With their soft, chewy chocolate chip cookie layers and a rich, gooey peanut butter caramel center, these bars are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a potluck, attending a gathering, or simply craving something sweet at home, these bars will wow everyone who tries them. Their combination of flavors and textures makes them unforgettable!
Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Bars:
- For the Caramel Sauce:
- How to Make Knock You Bars
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
- Step 3: Make the Cookie Dough
- Step 4: Bake the Base Layer
- Step 5: Prepare the Caramel Filling
- Step 6: Assemble the Bars
- Step 7: Final Bake
- Step 8: Cool and Serve
- How to Serve Knock You Bars
- Individual Portions
- With Ice Cream
- Drizzled with Chocolate
- Topped with Whipped Cream
- Garnished with Nuts
- As Party Favors
- How to Perfect Knock You Bars
- Best Side Dishes for Knock You Bars
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Knock You Bars
- Reheating Knock You Bars
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What are Knock You Bars?
- Can I customize my Knock You Bars?
- How should I store leftover Knock You Bars?
- What occasions are perfect for serving Knock You Bars?
- Can I make these bars ahead of time?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The blend of chocolate chips and peanut butter caramel creates a flavor explosion.
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Versatile Dessert: Perfect for parties, bake sales, or just a sweet treat at home.
- Make Ahead Option: These bars can be prepared in advance and stored for later enjoyment.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves caramel cookie bars—great for sharing with family and friends.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delightful recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Double boiler (or microwave-safe bowl)
- Rubber spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- 9×13-inch baking dish: Ideal size for achieving the perfect thickness for your Knock You Bars.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently without mess.
- Whisk: Helps incorporate air into the batter for a lighter texture.
- Double boiler: Ensures gentle melting of caramel without burning.
Ingredients
For the Bars:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
For the Caramel Sauce:
- 5 ounces evaporated milk
- 1 (14 oz) bag caramels, unwrapped
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
How to Make Knock You Bars
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease your 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt until combined.
Step 3: Make the Cookie Dough
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter along with the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Gradually incorporate the flour mixture until fully combined. Fold in the chocolate chips gently.
Step 4: Bake the Base Layer
Spread half of this cookie dough mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Bake in preheated oven for 8–10 minutes or until just set. Remove from oven.
Step 5: Prepare the Caramel Filling
While the base layer is baking, melt together the caramels and evaporated milk in a double boiler over low heat. Stir continuously until smooth. Mix in peanut butter until fully melted and incorporated.
Step 6: Assemble the Bars
Pour the caramel mixture evenly over the baked cookie base layer. Drop spoonfuls of the remaining cookie dough over this caramel layer.
Step 7: Final Bake
Return to oven and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes or until top is light golden brown.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Remove from oven and allow bars to cool completely before cutting into squares and serving. Enjoy your delicious Knock You Bars!
How to Serve Knock You Bars
Knock You Bars are perfect for any occasion, from casual family gatherings to festive celebrations. Here are some creative ways to present and serve these delicious treats.
Individual Portions
- Use cupcake liners to create individual servings. This makes it easy for guests to grab a bar without the mess.
With Ice Cream
- Serve warm Knock You Bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The combination of gooey caramel and cold ice cream is heavenly.
Drizzled with Chocolate
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the bars before serving. This adds an extra layer of flavor and makes them look even more appealing.
Topped with Whipped Cream
- Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for a light and airy contrast to the rich bars.
Garnished with Nuts
- Sprinkle chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, on top for added crunch and flavor.
As Party Favors
- Cut into small squares, package them in clear bags, and tie with a ribbon. These make delightful party favors for guests to take home.
How to Perfect Knock You Bars
Achieving the perfect Knock You Bars is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your bars turn out amazing every time.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough until just combined to keep the bars soft and chewy.
- Layer Evenly: Spread the cookie dough evenly in the baking dish for consistent baking throughout.
- Watch The Baking Time: Keep an eye on your bars as they bake; overbaking can lead to dry cookies.
- Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool fully before cutting them, ensuring clean edges and perfect squares.
- Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge for longer freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Knock You Bars
Knock You Bars pair beautifully with various side dishes that enhance their sweet flavor. Here are some great options to serve alongside them:
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the richness of the bars.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can complement the sweet flavors with savory notes.
- Chocolate Fondue: Serve with fresh fruits or marshmallows for dipping, making it a fun dessert experience.
- Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup of coffee pairs wonderfully, providing a slight bitterness that balances sweetness.
- Milkshake: A creamy milkshake enhances the indulgent experience while keeping things fun.
- Caramel Dipping Sauce: Offer extra caramel sauce on the side for those who want even more decadence!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Knock You Bars, a few common mistakes can affect your results. Here are some tips to help you succeed.
- Using cold ingredients: Make sure all ingredients, especially butter and eggs, are at room temperature for even mixing.
- Overmixing the dough: Mix just until combined to ensure your bars stay chewy and soft.
- Not greasing the pan: Always grease your baking dish to prevent the bars from sticking and ensure easy removal.
- Skipping the cooling time: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting; this helps them set properly and makes slicing easier.
- Incorrect baking time: Keep an eye on the baking time; underbaking can lead to gooey centers, while overbaking makes them dry.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking.
Freezing Knock You Bars
- Wrap bars tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Knock You Bars
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes until just heated through.
- Microwave: Heat individual bars for 15-20 seconds for a warm treat.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, placing bars in for a few minutes until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Knock You Bars?
Knock You Bars are rich caramel cookie bars made with chocolate chip cookie dough and a gooey peanut butter caramel center.
Can I customize my Knock You Bars?
Absolutely! Add nuts, different types of chocolate chips, or even switch out peanut butter for almond butter for variety.
How should I store leftover Knock You Bars?
Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze them for longer storage.
What occasions are perfect for serving Knock You Bars?
These delicious bars are great for potlucks, book clubs, or any gathering where you want to impress guests with a sweet treat.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare Knock You Bars a day or two in advance. Just store them properly and let them cool completely before cutting.
Final Thoughts
Knock You Bars are an irresistible treat that combines soft cookie layers with a decadent caramel filling. Their versatility allows you to customize them with various ingredients. Whether for a party or just a sweet craving, these bars will surely be a hit!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
PrintKnock You Bars
Indulge in the ultimate dessert experience with Knock You Bars, a delightful combination of soft, chewy chocolate chip cookie layers enveloping a rich, gooey peanut butter caramel center. These bars are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family gathering or an extravagant potluck. Their irresistible flavor and texture will leave everyone wanting more. Easy to make and versatile enough for endless variations, these treats are sure to impress both friends and family alike.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 5 ounces evaporated milk
- 1 (14 oz) bag caramels, unwrapped
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a bowl.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with sugars and vanilla until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Gradually blend in the flour mixture then fold in chocolate chips.
- Spread half of the cookie dough into the prepared dish and bake for 8–10 minutes until just set.
- Meanwhile, melt caramels with evaporated milk over low heat; stir in peanut butter until smooth.
- Pour caramel over baked cookie base, then drop spoonfuls of remaining dough on top.
- Bake an additional 15–20 minutes until golden brown. Allow to cool completely before cutting into squares.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (60g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
