Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars

These Butterfinger caramel crunch bars are everything I love in a dessert—sweet, crunchy, and perfectly gooey. Each layer has something special: buttery shortbread, rich caramel, and crispy Butterfinger bits on top. It’s the kind of treat that makes everyone stop and go, “Whoa, what is that?”

I love how the caramel melts just enough to stick to your fingers while the chocolate adds that smooth finish. The Butterfinger pieces give every bite that extra crunch that keeps it interesting. It’s messy in the best way possible.

They’re perfect for parties, bake sales, or just a sweet craving at home. No fancy steps—just layers of flavor that come together like dessert magic every single time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No Baking Required: Simply layer, melt, and chill for easy preparation.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of caramel, chocolate, and Butterfinger appeals to kids and adults alike.
• Quick Assembly: Most of the work is done in under 20 minutes.
• Great for Sharing: Makes enough bars to feed a group or pack for school lunches.
• Customizable: Swap in your favorite candy bars or add extra toppings.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time & Cook Time:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 2 hours
• Total Time: About 2 hours 15 minutes

Servings: This recipe makes 16 bars. Great for sharing at gatherings or storing for sweet snacks throughout the week.

Difficulty: Easy. No baking skills needed, just layering and melting.

Required Kitchen Tools

Ingredients for Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars

These bars come together with pantry staples and store-bought treats. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Graham Crackers: Forms the crunchy base layer that holds everything together.
• Mini Marshmallows: Adds a soft, sweet layer that melts into the caramel.
• Caramel Bits: Provides gooey, buttery sweetness throughout the bars.
• Milk: Helps melt the caramel to a smooth, pourable consistency.
• Butterfinger Bites: The star ingredient that adds that signature crispy, peanut buttery crunch.
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: Melts into a rich chocolate topping that brings all the layers together.

Variations for Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars

• Try Different Candy Bars: Swap Butterfinger for Snickers, Reese’s cups, or Heath bars.
• Add Peanut Butter: Drizzle melted peanut butter over the chocolate layer for extra richness.
• Use Dark Chocolate: Replace semi-sweet chocolate with dark chocolate for a less sweet finish.
• Add Sea Salt: Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the chocolate layer before it sets for a sweet-salty contrast.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers as your base.

How to Make Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Pan

Line your 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving some overhang on the sides. This makes lifting the bars out much easier after chilling.

2. Create the Graham Cracker Base

Arrange whole graham crackers in a single layer on the bottom of the pan. Break crackers as needed to fill any gaps and create an even base.

3. Add the Marshmallow Layer

Sprinkle mini marshmallows evenly over the graham cracker base. Use enough to cover most of the crackers but leave some space for the caramel to seep through.

4. Make the Caramel Layer

In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine caramel bits and milk. Stir constantly until the caramel melts and becomes smooth, about 3-5 minutes. Pour the melted caramel evenly over the marshmallows, spreading gently with a spoon if needed.

5. Add the Butterfinger Pieces

Sprinkle Butterfinger bites over the caramel layer while it’s still warm. Press them down gently so they stick into the caramel.

6. Create the Chocolate Topping

Place semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted and smooth. Pour the melted chocolate over the Butterfinger layer and spread evenly with a spoon or spatula.

7. Chill and Set

Refrigerate the pan for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate is completely firm and the layers have set together.

8. Cut and Serve

Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the entire block out of the pan. Place on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to cut into 16 bars. Wipe the knife clean between cuts for neat edges.

Serving and Decoration

How to Serve Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars:

• Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best texture.
• Arrange on a platter for parties or gatherings.
• Pack individually in plastic wrap for lunchboxes or gift bags.
• Dust with powdered sugar for a pretty finish.
• Drizzle extra caramel or melted peanut butter over the top before serving.

Storing Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in a cool, dry place.
• Refrigerator: Keep bars in the fridge for up to 1 week. The chocolate stays firm and the bars hold their shape better when cold.
• Freezer: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Check the expiration dates on your caramel bits and chocolate chips for the best flavor.
• Work Quickly with Caramel: The caramel mixture thickens as it cools, so pour it over the marshmallows while it’s still warm and pourable.
• Press Layers Gently: When adding the Butterfinger pieces, press them lightly into the caramel so they stick but don’t sink completely.
• Clean Cuts: For the neatest bars, use a large, sharp knife and wipe it clean with a damp cloth between each cut.
• Let Chocolate Set Fully: Don’t rush the chilling time. Fully set chocolate makes cutting and serving much easier.
• Customize the Crunch: Add crushed pretzels or chopped nuts to the marshmallow layer for extra texture.

Nutrition

Nutrient	Amount per Bar
Calories	280
Total Fat	12g
Saturated Fat	6g
Cholesterol	10mg
Sodium	180mg
Total Carbohydrates	42g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Sugars	32g
Protein	3g

Nutritional values are approximate and based on 16 servings.

Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars FAQs

Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows? Yes, but cut them into smaller pieces first so they distribute more evenly across the graham cracker base.

What if I don’t have caramel bits? You can use unwrapped caramel candies instead. The melting process is the same.

Can I make these bars ahead of time? Absolutely. These bars actually taste better the next day after all the flavors meld together. Make them up to 3 days in advance and store in the refrigerator.

Why is my chocolate layer cracking when I cut the bars? Let the bars sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes before cutting. This softens the chocolate just enough to prevent cracking.

Can I double this recipe? Yes. Use two 9×13-inch pans or one large sheet pan and adjust the ingredient amounts accordingly.

Conclusion

Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars are the perfect treat when you want something sweet, crunchy, and satisfying without turning on the oven. The layers of graham crackers, marshmallows, gooey caramel, Butterfinger candy, and chocolate create a dessert that feels special but comes together with minimal effort. Whether you’re making them for a party, packing them in lunchboxes, or just treating yourself on a quiet afternoon, these bars deliver big flavor in every bite.