Salt River Bars

These Salt River Bars are sweet, salty, chewy, creamy, crunchy, chocolatey PERFECTION! Everyone who tries them LOVES them! Perfect for parties, potlucks, or a cozy night in, these bars combine layers of flavors and textures that make them truly irresistible. The combination of Club crackers with luscious caramel and rich chocolate will leave your taste buds dancing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these bars in no time.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The sweet and salty flavor profile appeals to everyone, making them a hit at any gathering.
• Versatile Dessert: Great for any occasion—birthdays, holidays, or just a special treat for yourself!
• No-Bake Option: While they do require some cooking, chilling makes them easy to prepare ahead of time.
• Customizable Toppings: Feel free to mix up the toppings with different types of chips or nuts for a unique twist!

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools on hand makes preparing Salt River Bars much easier. Here’s what you’ll need to gather before you dive into this delicious recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9 by 13 inch baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Nonstick spray
• Medium-sized heavy bottomed pan
• Microwave-safe bowl
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• 9 by 13 inch baking pan: This size is perfect for fitting all the ingredients while allowing even cooking.
• Parchment paper: Helps prevent sticking and makes it easy to lift the bars out after chilling.
• Medium-sized heavy bottomed pan: Ensures even heating when melting the ingredients together.

Ingredients

These Salt River Bars are sweet, salty, chewy, creamy, crunchy, chocolatey PERFECTION! Everyone who tries them LOVES them!

• 90 Club crackers
• 1 cup butter, salted
• 2 cups light brown sugar, packed
• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 3/4 cups heavy cream
• 1 1/2 cups milk chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup butterscotch chips
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• Maldon sea salt for finishing

How to Make Salt River Bars

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Prepare a 9 by 13 inch pan by lining it with parchment paper. Leave the two long edges a bit longer so that you can easily lift the bars out later. Spray both the parchment and sides of the pan with nonstick spray.

Step 2: Layer the Crackers

Cover the bottom of your prepared pan with the first layer of crackers on top of the parchment. Cut the crackers to fit as needed. Aim for five rows of six crackers for optimal coverage.

Step 3: Make the Caramel Mixture

In a medium-sized heavy bottomed pan, melt together butter, brown sugar, graham cracker crumbs, and heavy cream over medium heat while stirring constantly.

Step 4: Boil Until Thickened

Bring your mixture to a boil while continuing to stir. Allow it to boil for about 7 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 5: Add Caramel Layers

Pour half of this caramel mixture over your first layer of crackers. Spread it evenly to reach all edges. Quickly add another layer of crackers on top.

Step 6: Complete Layering

Pour the remaining caramel over this second layer of crackers. Finally, add a last layer of crackers on top.

Step 7: Chill the Layers

Refrigerate your pan to chill and set the caramel layers while you prepare the chocolate topping.

Step 8: Prepare Chocolate Topping

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine milk chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, and creamy peanut butter. Heat in intervals (30–45 seconds), stirring in between until smooth.

Step 9: Finish and Serve

Spread your melted chocolate topping evenly over the final layer of crackers. Sprinkle Maldon sea salt over this chocolate layer according to your taste (about 1 teaspoon recommended). Chill again for 1–2 hours before cutting into bars using a sharp knife. For ease in cutting, use the parchment paper edges to lift out the entire slab from the pan.

Enjoy your delightful Salt River Bars!

How to Serve Salt River Bars

Salt River Bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether it’s a casual gathering or a festive occasion, these bars fit the bill perfectly.

At Family Gatherings

• Slice and Share: Cut the bars into bite-sized pieces for easy sharing among family members.
• Serve with Ice Cream: Pair with vanilla or chocolate ice cream for an extra creamy experience.

During Movie Night

• Snack Platter: Place the bars on a platter alongside popcorn and candy for a fun movie snack mix.
• Warm Up: Microwave individual bars for a few seconds to enjoy them warm and gooey.

As Party Favors

• Wrap Individually: Wrap each bar in cellophane and tie with a ribbon for a sweet party favor.
• Tag It: Attach a small card with the recipe to share the love of Salt River Bars!

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How to Perfect Salt River Bars

To achieve the best results with your Salt River Bars, follow these simple tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure that your butter is fresh for optimal flavor and texture.
• Chill Properly: Allow adequate chill time after making to ensure the layers set well.
• Cut with Care: Use a sharp knife for clean cuts when slicing the bars after chilling.
• Sprinkle Generously: Don’t be shy with the Maldon sea salt; it enhances the sweet and salty balance beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Salt River Bars

Salt River Bars can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their deliciousness. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances out the sweetness of the bars.
2. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These add an elegant touch and pair well with chocolate flavors.
3. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can provide a savory contrast to the sweet bars.
4. Nutty Trail Mix: This crunchy mix offers different textures that complement the chewy bars.
5. Vanilla Yogurt Dip: Serve this dip on the side for an extra creamy element alongside each bar.
6. Coffee or Tea: A warm beverage pairs nicely, enhancing the overall dessert experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Salt River Bars can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final result.

• Skipping parchment paper: Not lining the pan with parchment paper can make it difficult to remove the bars. Always line your pan for easy removal.
• Overcooking caramel: Boiling the caramel mixture for too long can lead to a burnt taste. Stick to the 7-minute guideline for perfect results.
• Not chilling properly: Failing to chill the bars before cutting can lead to messy servings. Make sure to let them set in the fridge for at least an hour.
• Using too much salt: Adding too much Maldon sea salt can overpower the sweetness. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste.
• Neglecting chocolate melting: Microwaving chocolate for too long can cause it to burn. Heat in short intervals and stir frequently for a smooth consistency.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Salt River Bars in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Freezing Salt River Bars

• Wrap individual bars or layers tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to three months for best quality.

Reheating Salt River Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Warm bars for about 10 minutes until softened.
• Microwave: Heat each bar for 10-15 seconds until just warm.
• Stovetop: Place bars on a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Salt River Bars.

What are Salt River Bars?

Salt River Bars are a delicious dessert made with layers of crackers, caramel, and chocolate, providing a delightful combination of sweet and salty flavors.

Can I customize my Salt River Bars?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, swap out chocolate types, or even mix in dried fruits to make them your own.

How do I cut Salt River Bars for neat slices?

Use a sharp knife and warm it slightly under hot water before cutting. This helps create clean edges.

Can I use different types of crackers?

Yes! While Club crackers are recommended, you can experiment with other types like graham crackers or Ritz for varied flavors.

How do I store leftover Salt River Bars?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator or wrap them tightly and freeze as needed.

Final Thoughts

These Salt River Bars are not only incredibly tasty but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. Feel free to get creative with toppings or mix-ins! Whether you’re serving guests or enjoying them yourself, these bars promise satisfaction with every bite. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!