Butterfinger Caramel Bars

Crunchy and Gooey Butterfinger Caramel Delights

Transforming your favorite treats to fit various dietary needs doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re reducing sugar, accommodating a gluten-free diet, embracing veganism, or simply seeking a healthier twist on the decadent Crunchy and Gooey Butterfinger Caramel Delights, there are plenty of substitutions and adjustments available. From utilizing reduced-sugar components to incorporating gluten-free graham crackers and vegan-friendly marshmallows and chocolate, these modifications allow you to enjoy these delicious bars with a few mindful changes. Here’s how you can adapt this indulgent recipe to suit a range of dietary preferences without compromising on the deliciousness that makes it a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

6 1/2 graham crackers

2 cups mini marshmallows

1 (11 oz) bag Caramel bits

2 Tbsp milk

1 (10 oz) bag Butterfinger Bites, coarsely chopped

2 oz semi-sweet chocolate (for drizzle)

Directions:

Prep the Base: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Arrange the graham crackers in a single layer, breaking them as needed to fit the bottom of the pan.

Marshmallow Layer: Sprinkle the mini marshmallows evenly over the graham crackers. Set aside.

Caramel Layer: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the caramel bits with the milk, stirring constantly until smooth. Pour the melted caramel evenly over the marshmallows and graham crackers.

Butterfinger Layer: Sprinkle the coarsely chopped Butterfinger Bites over the caramel layer, pressing them down lightly to adhere.

Chocolate Drizzle: Melt the semi-sweet chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the Butterfinger layer.

Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours, or until set. Lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper as handles. Cut into squares and serve.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Chill Time: 2 hours | Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes

Kcal: Information not provided | Servings: 9-12 bars

Expert Tips and Variations:

Enhancing Flavor and Texture:

• Brown the Marshmallows: For an added depth of flavor, consider briefly broiling the marshmallow layer until lightly browned before adding the caramel layer. This adds a toasty flavor and slightly chewier texture to the marshmallows.
• Salted Caramel Option: Add a pinch of sea salt to the caramel mixture while melting for a salted caramel variation. The saltiness enhances the sweetness of the caramel and chocolate, offering a sophisticated twist.
• Nutty Addition: If you love a bit of crunch and nuttiness, sprinkle chopped peanuts or almonds between the caramel and Butterfinger layers. This not only adds texture but also complements the peanut butter flavor of the Butterfingers.
• Use Homemade Caramel: For an even richer flavor, consider making your own caramel from scratch. Homemade caramel can be made with sugar, butter, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt. It offers a deeper flavor profile compared to store-bought caramel bits.

Serving Suggestions:

• A La Mode: Serve these bars slightly warmed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a decadent dessert experience.
• Coffee Pairing: These sweet and rich delights pair wonderfully with a strong cup of coffee. The bitterness of the coffee balances the sweetness of the bars, making for a perfect afternoon treat.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigeration: Keep the bars refrigerated in an airtight container to maintain their texture. They can be enjoyed for up to a week when stored properly.
• Freezing for Longevity: If you want to extend the life of your bars, they can be frozen for up to three months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a zip-top bag. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Gifting and Presentation:

• Gift Packaging: These bars make delightful gifts. Once cut, place them in cupcake liners and arrange in a decorative box or tin. Add a bow and a personalized note for a sweet gesture.
• Decorative Toppings: Before the chocolate drizzle sets, sprinkle a few festive toppings like colored sprinkles, edible glitter, or crushed candy pieces for a special occasion.

Healthier Alternatives and Dietary Considerations:

For those who love the idea of Crunchy and Gooey Butterfinger Caramel Delights but are looking for ways to adapt the recipe to fit dietary restrictions or a healthier lifestyle, here are some suggestions:

Lower Sugar and Calorie Options:

• Reduced-Sugar Substitutes: Look for reduced-sugar or sugar-free versions of caramel bits and chocolate. These substitutes can help lower the overall sugar content without sacrificing flavor.
• Natural Sweeteners: Consider using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup in place of the caramel. Note that this may alter the texture slightly, so you might need to adjust the quantities and cooking times.

Gluten-Free Adaptation:

• Gluten-Free Graham Crackers: Use gluten-free graham crackers for the base to make this recipe celiac-friendly. There are several brands available that offer a similar taste and texture to traditional graham crackers.

Vegan Variations:

• Vegan Marshmallows and Chocolate: Substitute the marshmallows and chocolate with vegan alternatives. There are many vegan products on the market that mimic the taste and melting properties of their traditional counterparts.
• Dairy-Free Caramel: Make a vegan caramel sauce using coconut cream, coconut sugar, and a pinch of salt. This not only replaces the dairy but also introduces a subtle coconut flavor that pairs well with the peanut buttery Butterfingers.

Protein-Packed Version:

• Add Protein: For an added protein boost, sprinkle a layer of chopped nuts or seeds between the caramel and Butterfinger layers, or mix in a scoop of your favorite unflavored or vanilla protein powder into the melted caramel.

Lower Fat Options:

• Substitute Ingredients: Use a light or fat-free milk in place of the regular milk when melting the caramel bits. Additionally, consider using a reduced-fat graham cracker option if available.

Allergy-Friendly Adjustments:

• Nut-Free: Ensure that all ingredients used are free from nuts or nut traces, especially if adapting the recipe with additional nuts or using alternative products that might be produced in facilities processing nuts.

Presentation for Dietary Restrictions:

• Clear Labeling: When serving these delights at gatherings, clearly label them with the dietary considerations they meet (e.g., “Vegan,” “Gluten-Free,” “Low-Sugar”). This thoughtful touch ensures everyone can enjoy without hesitation.