Salt River Bars

These Salt River Bars are a delightful combination of sweet and salty flavors, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a special event, or simply craving a tasty treat, these bars stand out with their chewy texture and rich chocolatey topping. The unique blend of ingredients creates layers of flavor that will leave everyone wanting more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 30 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for those busy days.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With their delicious combination of flavors, these Salt River Bars are sure to impress friends and family at gatherings.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for dessert tables, potlucks, or just a sweet snack at home.
• No-Bake Chilling: After preparing the layers, let them chill in the fridge—no oven required!
• Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different toppings or add-ins based on your preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Salt River Bars effortlessly, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13 inch pan: The perfect size for creating thick layers of Salt River Bars.
• Parchment paper: Helps in easy removal of bars from the pan after chilling.
• Medium heavy-bottomed pan: Ensures even heating when melting ingredients together.
• Microwave-safe bowl: Ideal for melting chocolate without burning it.

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 the Pan

1. Line a 9×13 inch pan with parchment paper. Leave the edges long to help lift the bars later.
2. Spray both the parchment paper and sides of the pan with nonstick spray.

Step 2: Layer the Crackers

1. Place a layer of Club crackers on the bottom of the prepared pan. Cut as needed to fit.

Step 3: Create the Caramel Mixture

1. In a medium heavy-bottomed pan, melt together the butter, brown sugar, graham cracker crumbs, and heavy cream over medium heat while stirring constantly.
2. Bring this mixture to a boil and continue stirring for about 7 minutes.

Step 4: Assemble Layers

1. Pour half of the caramel mixture over the first layer of crackers, spreading it evenly.
2. Quickly add another layer of crackers over this caramel.
3. Pour the remaining caramel mixture over this second layer and top with one final layer of crackers.

Step 5: Chill and Prepare Topping

1. Refrigerate the assembled bars to chill while making the chocolate topping.

Step 6: Make Chocolate Topping

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine milk chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, and peanut butter.
2. Heat in microwave for 30-45 seconds; stir until smooth. If needed, microwave in additional 15-second intervals until fully melted.

Step 7: Final Assembly

1. Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the final layer of crackers and spread evenly to cover.
2. Sprinkle Maldon sea salt on top according to taste.

Step 8: Chill Again Before Serving

1. Allow bars to chill in refrigerator for 1-2 hours before cutting into squares using a sharp knife.

These Salt River Bars make an indulgent dessert that everyone will love! Enjoy your delicious creation!

How to Serve Salt River Bars

Salt River Bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for a party or a cozy night at home, these bars offer versatility in serving. Here are some fun ideas to make the most of your Salt River Bars.

For Parties

• Serve them as part of a dessert platter alongside other sweets.
• Pair with coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.

For Kids

• Cut into smaller pieces for easy snacking.
• Pack them in school lunches as a sweet surprise.

As a Gift

• Wrap them in decorative paper and give them as homemade gifts.
• Include a note with your recipe for an added personal touch.

On Special Occasions

• Serve at birthday parties or holiday gatherings.
• Use themed plates or decorations to enhance the presentation.

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How to Perfect Salt River Bars

Perfecting your Salt River Bars takes just a few extra steps. Follow these tips to ensure they turn out beautifully every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh butter and chocolate will enhance flavor and texture.
• Chill thoroughly: Make sure to refrigerate the bars long enough for the layers to set properly.
• Cut with care: Use a sharp knife and cut after chilling to get clean edges.
• Try different toppings: Experiment with nuts or coconut for unique flavors and textures.

Best Side Dishes for Salt River Bars

Complement your Salt River Bars with these delightful side dishes. They add variety and round out the dessert experience nicely.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that balances the sweetness of the bars.
2. Fresh Berries: Strawberries or raspberries add a refreshing contrast.
3. Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, it enhances the creamy elements of the bars.
4. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle over the bars for an extra chocolatey kick.
5. Coffee: A warm cup provides a perfect balance to the sweetness of the bars.
6. Caramel Sauce: For those who love caramel, this adds an extra layer of indulgence.
7. Nut Mix: A salty nut mix offers great textural contrast and enhances flavors.
8. Fruit Salad: A light option that complements the rich taste of Salt River Bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Salt River Bars can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Not using parchment paper: Failing to line the pan can make it hard to remove the bars. Always use parchment paper for easy lifting.
• Overcooking the caramel: Boiling too long can lead to a hard texture. Stick to the 7-minute boil time for a perfect chewy consistency.
• Skipping the sea salt: Forgetting to sprinkle sea salt on top misses that delightful contrast. A little salt enhances the flavor immensely.
• Using low-quality chocolate: Poor chocolate can ruin the topping. Choose high-quality milk chocolate for a rich and creamy finish.
• Cutting too soon: Slicing the bars before they chill completely can lead to messy edges. Allow them to cool in the fridge for at least 1-2 hours.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container. This keeps the bars fresh and prevents them from drying out.
• They will last up to one week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Salt River Bars

• Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Frozen bars can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Salt River Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in 15-second intervals until just warm, being careful not to melt too much.
• Stovetop: Place on a pan over low heat for a few minutes, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Salt River Bars.

How do I know when my caramel is ready?

The caramel should be bubbling vigorously and have a nice golden color after boiling for 7 minutes.

Can I use different types of crackers?

Absolutely! While Club crackers are traditional, you can try graham crackers or even salted crackers for different flavors.

What if I don’t have butterscotch chips?

You can substitute with more chocolate chips or even white chocolate chips for a different taste.

How should I cut my Salt River Bars?

Use a sharp knife and cut while they are still cold from the fridge for clean edges.

Can I customize my Salt River Bars?

Yes! Feel free to add nuts, dried fruit, or different types of chocolate chips based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

These Salt River Bars are not only sweet and salty but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize them with your favorite ingredients or toppings. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delicious treat that everyone will love!