Caramel Crush Bars
Delicious and easy-to-make Caramel Crush Bars with a buttery oat crust and a rich caramel filling, perfect for potlucks and gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Crust and Topping
- 1.25 cups butter, melted
- 1.5 cups quick oats Rolled oats can be used in a pinch.
- 2.25 cups all-purpose flour If using self-rising, reduce slightly.
- 1.5 cups brown sugar Light brown is standard; dark adds a deeper flavor.
For the Caramel Filling
- 0.25 cups butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 0.25 cups milk Any regular dairy or a rich plant milk can be used.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons flour
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9 by 13 inch metal baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, quick oats, 2.25 cups flour, and 1.5 cups brown sugar until sandy.
- Press half of the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
Cooking
- For the caramel, melt 0.25 cups butter with 1 cup brown sugar in a saucepan.
- Stir in the milk and vanilla, then simmer until the mixture is glossy and thickened, about 5 minutes.
- Pour caramel over the crust and sprinkle the remaining oat mixture on top. Gently press it down.
- Bake in the preheated oven until the edges are golden, about 25-30 minutes. Let cool before slicing with a warm knife for cleaner cuts.
Notes
These bars pack and travel well. They can be made ahead of time and stored at room temperature for up to 4-5 days. For variations, consider adding chocolate chips or nuts, but keep the total add-ins to about 1 cup to maintain the bar's structure.