🍫 Caramel Chocolate Crunch Bars!!! — The 5-Ingredient, No-Bake Treat That Tastes Like a $10 Candy Bar (But Costs Pennies)

If you’re craving something sweet, crunchy, and decadent without the hassle of turning on the oven, these Caramel Chocolate Crunch Bars are your new best friend. With just five simple ingredients, you can create a dessert that looks like it belongs in a fancy candy shop but costs next to nothing to make at home. Perfect for dessert tables, lunchbox treats, or a late-night sweet fix, this recipe is foolproof, fast, and irresistibly delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need for this magical, no-bake treat:

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs – provides the crunchy base.
1 cup caramel bits (or soft caramel squares, chopped) – the sweet, gooey layer that holds everything together.
1/2 cup butter – to help melt the caramel and add richness.
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips – the chocolatey goodness on top.
Optional: sea salt for sprinkling – for that perfect sweet-salty balance.

Tip: If you like a nutty crunch, you can add chopped pecans or peanuts to the graham cracker layer, but the original recipe works perfectly without it.

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prep Your Pan

Line an 8×8-inch square pan with parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang on the sides. This makes lifting the bars out super easy once they’re set.

Step 2: Make the Crunchy Base

In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter.
Stir until the mixture is fully combined and has the texture of wet sand.
Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan to create an even, compact layer.
Place the pan in the fridge while you prepare the caramel. Chilling the base first helps prevent it from mixing into the caramel.

Step 3: Layer the Caramel

In a small saucepan, combine the caramel bits and 2 tablespoons of butter over low heat.
Stir constantly until the caramel is completely melted and smooth.
Pour the melted caramel over the chilled graham cracker base, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
For an extra touch, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the caramel for a sweet-salty contrast.