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These Knock You Naked Bars combine gooey caramel, peanut butter, and chocolate chip cookie dough into an irresistibly decadent treat. Each bite delivers layers of flavor that make them perfect for special occasions or anytime you need an impressive dessert.
Essential Ingredients
- Butter: Room temperature for creaming
- Both sugars: For chewy texture
- Caramels: Use quality brand
- Evaporated milk: Don't substitute regular milk
- Peanut butter: Creamy works best
- Chocolate chips: Semi-sweet preferred
- All-purpose flour: Creates perfect base
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Detailed Instructions
Start with room temperature ingredients. This ensures proper mixing and even baking
Mix dry ingredients separately to distribute leaveners evenly. This prevents bitter spots
Press first layer of dough gently - don't compact too much or bars will be dense
For caramel layer, melt slowly in double boiler. Rush this step and caramel can burn
When adding top layer, drop small pieces of dough rather than spreading - this creates a nice textured top
Watch final baking carefully - edges should be just golden. Overbaking makes them dry
Let cool completely before cutting. This might take several hours but ensures clean cuts
Perfect Caramel Layer:
- Use low heat when melting
- Stir constantly
- Add peanut butter while warm
- Keep mixture moving
- Check consistency before pouring
Getting Clean Cuts:
- Cool completely - overnight is best
- Use sharp knife
- Heat knife between cuts
- Wipe blade clean
- Cut straight down, don't drag
Storage Tips:
- Room temperature 3-4 days
- Refrigerate up to a week
- Freeze up to 3 months
- Layer with parchment
- Bring to room temp before serving
Variations:
- Add chopped nuts
- Use different chip varieties
- Swirl in Nutella
- Add toffee bits
- Try different nut butters
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Troubleshooting:
- If caramel is too firm: Add more evaporated milk
- If bars are crumbly: Underbaked or too much flour
- If caramel leaks: Seal edges better
- If top browns too fast: Cover with foil
- If dough is sticky: Chill briefly
Pro Tips:
- Line pan with parchment
- Leave overhang for easy removal
- Use room temp ingredients
- Don't overbake base layer
- Let cool between layers
- Make Ahead Options:
- Prepare dough ahead
- Store unbaked in fridge
- Make caramel sauce separately
- Assemble day of baking
- Can freeze completed bars
Special Occasion Tips:
- Cut into smaller pieces for parties
- Drizzle with extra chocolate
- Add festive sprinkles
- Package individually
- Create gift boxes
Remember: These bars are rich and decadent. Small pieces satisfy, and they're perfect for sharing. The combination of textures and flavors makes them unforgettable!
These indulgent bars earned their name honestly - they're absolutely irresistible. Whether you're baking for a special occasion or just craving something extraordinary, these layered bars of happiness deliver every time. The key is patience: with the preparation, the baking, and especially the cooling. Your reward will be perfectly layered, beautifully cut bars that disappear as fast as you can serve them!
Recipe Tips & Questions
- → Can I use caramel sauce instead of melted caramels?
- Store-bought caramel sauce is too thin. Stick with melted caramels for the right consistency.
- → How do I store these bars?
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
- → Can I freeze these bars?
- Yes, wrap well and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
- → Why is my caramel too hard?
- Make sure to add all the evaporated milk and don't overcook the caramel mixture.
- → Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
- Yes, though smooth peanut butter gives the best texture for the caramel layer.