Knock You Bars

These Knock You Bars are the ultimate indulgence for dessert lovers. With layers of rich chocolate chip cookie dough and a gooey peanut butter caramel center, they strike the perfect balance between sweet and savory. Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or just a cozy night in, these bars are sure to impress everyone. Once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself making them again and again!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of chocolate, caramel, and peanut butter creates a delightful taste that everyone loves.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can whip these up.
• Versatile Treat: Whether for birthdays, holidays, or casual get-togethers, they’re suitable for all occasions.
• Make Ahead Option: These bars can be made in advance and stored, making them perfect for busy schedules.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With generous servings, they’re an excellent choice for sharing at parties or events.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making your Knock You Bars, gather the essential tools needed for success in your kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Double boiler (or microwave-safe bowl)

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13-inch baking dish: This size is perfect for even baking and ensures your bars come out with the right thickness.
• Electric mixer: A must-have for effortlessly creaming butter and sugars together.
• Double boiler: Ideal for melting caramel smoothly without burning.

Ingredients

For the Bars:

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

For the Caramel Sauce:

• 5 ounces evaporated milk
• 1 (14 oz) bag caramels, unwrapped
• 1/2 cup peanut butter

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How to Make Knock You Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease your 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a small bowl, whisk together:
1. 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
2. 1 teaspoon baking soda
3. 1 teaspoon salt

This will ensure your dry ingredients are evenly mixed before adding them to the wet mixture.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Beat together 1 cup softened butter, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, 3/4 cup packed brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until creamy.
2. Add in 2 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Gradually mix in your flour mixture until fully incorporated. Be careful not to over-mix; just blend until combined.

Step 5: Add Chocolate Chips

Fold in 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 6: Bake the Base Layer

Spread half of the cookie dough mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 8–10 minutes or until just set but not browned. Remove from the oven and set aside.

Step 7: Make the Caramel Sauce

While your base is baking:
1. In a double boiler (or microwave), melt together:
– 5 ounces evaporated milk
– 1 (14 oz) bag caramels, unwrapped

Stir continuously until smooth. Then add in 1/2 cup peanut butter, stirring until fully melted.

Step 8: Assemble Your Bars

Pour the caramel mixture evenly over the baked cookie layer. Next, drop spoonfuls of the remaining cookie dough over the caramel layer.

Step 9: Final Bake

Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes or until the top is light golden brown.

Step 10: Cool and Serve

Remove from oven and allow cooling completely before cutting into squares. Enjoy your delicious Knock You Bars!

How to Serve Knock You Bars

Knock You Bars are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering. These delicious caramel cookie bars can be served in various ways to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.

Individual Portions

• Cut the bars into small squares for easy serving. Individual portions make it simple for guests to grab a piece without needing utensils.

With Ice Cream

• Serve warm Knock You Bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The melting ice cream pairs perfectly with the gooey caramel center.

Drizzled with Chocolate

• Add an extra touch by drizzling melted chocolate over the top. This enhances the chocolate flavor and makes the presentation even more appealing.

Paired with Fresh Fruit

• Serve alongside fresh strawberries or raspberries for a refreshing contrast. The acidity of the fruit balances the sweetness of the bars.

At Potlucks

• Bring Knock You Bars to potlucks as an easy-to-share dessert. They are sure to be a hit among guests looking for something sweet.

With Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy a piece of Knock You Bars with your favorite hot beverage. The combination of flavors makes for a comforting afternoon treat.

How to Perfect Knock You Bars

To make your Knock You Bars truly unforgettable, consider these helpful tips that will enhance your baking experience and results.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure your eggs and butter are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined when adding flour to avoid tough cookies. A gentle fold keeps them soft.
• Chill the dough: If you have time, chill the cookie dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent spreading and enhances flavor.
• Check for doneness: Keep an eye on the baking time; they should be lightly golden on top but still soft in the center.
• Let them cool completely: Allowing the bars to cool fully before cutting ensures neat slices and prevents them from falling apart.
• Store properly: Keep leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them if you prefer a firmer texture.

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Best Side Dishes for Knock You Bars

Knock You Bars can be complemented with several side dishes that enhance their rich flavors. Here are some excellent options that pair well with this indulgent dessert.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a light, refreshing contrast to the rich bars.
2. Chocolate Mousse: This creamy dessert adds an extra layer of chocolate goodness, making it ideal for chocoholics.
3. Whipped Cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream adds lightness and complements the bar’s sweetness beautifully.
4. Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites offer a different texture while staying within the dessert theme.
5. Nutty Granola: A small serving of nutty granola gives an added crunch that pairs well with the soft bars.
6. Coffee Cake: A slice of coffee cake serves as a delightful pairing, perfect for brunch settings alongside Knock You Bars.
7. Brownie Bites: For those who can’t get enough chocolate, brownie bites provide another decadent option to enjoy after the bars.
8. Ice Cream Sundae Bar: Set up an ice cream sundae bar where guests can create their own sundaes using Knock You Bars as a topping!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Knock You Bars, avoid these common pitfalls to ensure your dessert turns out perfectly.

• Missing Ingredients: Make sure you have all the ingredients before starting. Check your pantry and fridge to avoid any surprises.
• Overmixing Dough: Mix the cookie dough until just combined to keep the bars soft and chewy. Overmixing can lead to tough bars.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Always preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) before baking. This helps achieve the perfect texture.
• Skipping Cooling Time: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting. This prevents them from falling apart when sliced.
• Using Incorrect Pan Size: Stick with a 9×13-inch baking dish for even baking. A different size can alter cooking times and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Knock You Bars in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Knock You Bars

• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Knock You Bars

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place bars on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat each bar for 15-20 seconds on a microwave-safe plate. Be careful not to overheat!
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid for about 5 minutes, ensuring they warm evenly.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are Knock You Bars?

Knock You Bars are decadent caramel cookie bars with layers of chocolate chip cookie dough and a gooey peanut butter caramel center.

Can I customize my Knock You Bars?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, swap chocolate chips for white chocolate, or even incorporate different flavors of caramel.

How do I know when my Knock You Bars are done baking?

Look for a light golden brown top and a slightly set center. The edges should be firm while the middle remains slightly soft.

How should I store leftover Knock You Bars?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.

Final Thoughts

Knock You Bars are an irresistible treat that combines rich flavors and delightful textures. Perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, these bars are versatile and easy to customize based on your preferences. Whether you love extra chocolate chips or want to experiment with different nut butters, these bars will surely impress everyone!

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