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Salt River Bars Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 67 reviews

Salt River Bars are a decadent layered dessert featuring crispy Club crackers, a rich caramel mixture made from butter, brown sugar, graham cracker crumbs, and heavy cream, all topped with a luscious blend of milk chocolate, butterscotch chips, and creamy peanut butter. Finished with a sprinkle of Maldon sea salt, these bars offer a delightful balance of sweet, salty, and buttery flavors with a satisfying crunch in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Cracker Layers

  • 90 Club crackers

Caramel Mixture

  • 1 cup salted butter
  • 2 cups light brown sugar, packed
  • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream

Chocolate Topping

  • 1 1/2 cups milk chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup butterscotch chips
  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
  • Maldon sea salt for finishing (about 1 teaspoon)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Pan: Line a 9 by 13 inch pan with parchment paper, leaving extra length on the two long edges to facilitate lifting the bars out later. Spray the parchment and sides of the pan with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Layer Crackers: Place the first layer of Club crackers at the bottom of the pan, arranging approximately five rows of six crackers to cover the surface. Cut crackers as needed to fit the pan perfectly.
  3. Make Caramel: In a medium heavy-bottomed pan, combine the butter, light brown sugar, graham cracker crumbs, and heavy cream over medium heat. Stir constantly until the butter is melted and ingredients are fully combined.
  4. Boil Caramel: Bring the mixture to a boil, continuing to stir consistently. Maintain a boil for 7 minutes to achieve the right consistency.
  5. First Caramel Layer: Pour half of the hot caramel mixture evenly over the first cracker layer, spreading it carefully to the edges of the pan.
  6. Second Cracker Layer: Quickly place a second layer of crackers over the caramel layer, pressing gently to create an even layer.
  7. Second Caramel Layer: Pour the remaining caramel over the second layer of crackers and spread evenly to the edges.
  8. Final Cracker Layer and Chill: Add a final layer of crackers on top of the caramel. Refrigerate the pan to allow the caramel layers to chill and set firmly while preparing the chocolate topping.
  9. Prepare Chocolate Topping: Place the milk chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, and creamy peanut butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave initially for 30-45 seconds, stir well, then continue microwaving in 15-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and fully melted.
  10. Top Bars: Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the final cracker layer, spreading evenly to the edges of the pan. Sprinkle about 1 teaspoon of Maldon sea salt over the chocolate layer to finish.
  11. Final Chill and Serve: Refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours to fully set the bars. Use the parchment paper edges to lift the bars out of the pan for easier cutting. Slice with a sharp knife into individual bars and serve.

Notes

  • Using parchment paper with overhanging edges makes it easier to remove the bars from the pan.
  • Maldon sea salt adds a delicate crunch and balances the sweetness; adjust the amount to your preference.
  • Ensure to stir the caramel mixture constantly to prevent burning during boiling.
  • Microwave chocolate mixture carefully to avoid scorching; stirring well between intervals ensures a smooth topping.
  • Refrigerate until bars are fully set to achieve clean cuts.

Keywords: Salt River Bars, caramel bars, chocolate peanut butter bars, layered dessert, no bake bars

Find it online: https://delishfamilyrecipe.com/salt-river-bars-recipe/