Description
These Caramel Cashew Cereal Bars combine a chocolaty cookie base with a crunchy cereal cashew layer topped with a luscious caramel chocolate glaze, making for a perfect sweet and satisfying treat that’s easy to prepare and perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
Base Layer
- 1 (16-ounce) refrigerated chocolate chip cookie dough
Cereal Cashew Layer
- 1 (12-ounce) bag milk chocolate chips, divided
- 1 (16-ounce) container caramel apple dip, divided
- 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 1¼ cups chopped cashews
Instructions
- Prepare Cookie Dough: Bring the refrigerated chocolate chip cookie dough to room temperature so it’s easier to spread evenly in the baking pan.
- Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the cookie base layer.
- Spread Cookie Dough: Unwrap the cookie dough and evenly press it into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan lined with parchment paper, forming a very thin layer.
- Bake Cookie Base: Bake in the preheated oven for 13-15 minutes until the cookie layer is lightly browned. Avoid overbaking. Remove and allow to cool for 15 to 30 minutes.
- Make Cereal Cashew Mixture: In a large saucepan over low to medium heat, combine 1 cup of chocolate chips and 1 cup of caramel apple dip. Stir constantly until the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat and immediately stir in Rice Krispies cereal and chopped cashews.
- Spread Cereal Layer: Quickly spread the cereal cashew mixture evenly over the cooled cookie base layer before it sets.
- Create Topping Glaze: In a small saucepan over low to medium heat, combine the remaining 1 cup chocolate chips and ½ cup caramel dip. Stir constantly until smooth and melted.
- Top the Bars: Quickly spread this glaze evenly over the cereal cashew layer.
- Chill and Set: Refrigerate the assembled bars for at least 30 minutes to allow them to firm up and set properly.
- Slice and Serve: Cut into 24 bars and enjoy the decadent treat.
Notes
- To ensure even cooking, bring the cookie dough fully to room temperature before spreading.
- Be careful not to overbake the cookie layer—look for just a light golden brown color.
- Stir the chocolate and caramel mixtures constantly to avoid burning and achieve a smooth consistency.
- Work quickly when spreading the cereal layer and topping as the mixtures set fast.
- Refrigeration is key for firm bars and easier slicing.
- For a nut-free option, substitute cashews with additional cereal or seeds.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
