Decadent Nutty Squirrel Bars

Decadent Nutty Squirrel Bars 

Delight in these Decadent Nutty Squirrel Bars, a treat bursting with a rich blend of chocolate, caramel, and toasted nuts. These chewy bars are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth with a touch of nutty goodness.

Ingredients:

• 2 sticks unsalted butter, softened and divided
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 ¼ cup flour
• ⅓ cup cocoa powder
• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup caramel baking chips
• ½ cup chopped almonds, pecans, or walnuts
• 4 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon salt

Directions:

Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.

Prepare Butter: Set aside 2 tablespoons of butter.

Make Base: In a large bowl, beat together the powdered sugar and 1 ¾ sticks of butter until light and fluffy. Gradually mix in the cocoa powder and flour until well combined.

Press and Bake: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish and press it down. Bake for 15 minutes.

Prepare Sauce: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the reserved 2 tablespoons of butter with the sweetened condensed milk. Stir until the mixture thickens, then remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

Second Bake: Pour the sauce over the baked crust. Return to the oven and bake until the top is golden brown, about 8-10 minutes.

Toast Nuts: In a dry pan, toast the nuts until fragrant. Let them cool slightly, then roughly chop and set aside.

Caramel Topping: Melt the caramel baking chips with the heavy cream in the microwave, heating in 30-second intervals and stirring each time until smooth (about 2 minutes).

Combine and Spread: Fold the chopped nuts and salt into the caramel mixture, then pour and spread it over the baked crust.

Cool and Cut: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into squares.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Calories: 250 kcal per serving | Servings: 24 bars

Enjoy these delectable Nutty Squirrel Bars, packed with layers of flavor and the perfect balance of chewy, nutty, and sweet!