Knock You Bars

These Knock You Bars are a dessert lover’s dream, perfect for any occasion! With their soft and chewy layers of chocolate chip cookie dough surrounding a rich, gooey caramel center infused with peanut butter, these bars are the ultimate indulgence. Whether you’re hosting a potluck, celebrating a birthday, or simply craving something sweet, these bars will steal the show. Plus, they’re easy to make and even easier to enjoy!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Bars:
• For the Caramel Sauce:
• How to Make Knock You Bars
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients
• Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
• Step 4: Combine Mixtures
• Step 5: Bake Initial Dough Layer
• Step 6: Make Caramel Sauce
• Step 7: Assemble Bars
• Step 8: Final Bake
• Step 9: Cool and Serve
• How to Serve Knock You Bars
• For Family Gatherings
• At Potlucks
• During Movie Nights
• How to Perfect Knock You Bars
• Best Side Dishes for Knock You Bars
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Knock You Bars
• Reheating Knock You Bars
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What are Knock You Bars?
• Can I customize my Knock You Bars?
• How do I know when my Knock You Bars are done baking?
• Are Knock You Bars suitable for potlucks?
• Can I make these bars ahead of time?
• Final Thoughts
• Desserts
• SEO Information
• 📖 Recipe Card

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools on hand will make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up your Knock You Bars perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Baking dish (9×13-inch)
• Whisk
• Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Baking dish: A 9×13-inch dish ensures even baking and the perfect size for this recipe.
• Whisk: Helps incorporate air into mixtures, leading to lighter textures.
• Spatula: Perfect for spreading dough evenly and scraping down bowls.

Ingredients

For the Bars:

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
• (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 and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

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

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

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 the 2 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Gradually mix in the dry flour mixture until fully combined. Then fold in:
– 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

Step 5: Bake Initial Dough Layer

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

Step 6: Make Caramel Sauce

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

Stir until smooth.
2. Mix in:
– 1/2 cup peanut butter

Step 7: Assemble Bars

Pour the caramel mixture evenly over the baked cookie layer. Then drop spoonfuls of the remaining cookie dough on top of the caramel layer.

Step 8: Final Bake

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

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Remove from oven and allow bars to cool completely before cutting into squares and serving. Enjoy your delicious Knock You Bars!

How to Serve Knock You Bars

Knock You Bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet night at home, these bars are sure to impress.

For Family Gatherings

• Serve Warm: Heat them slightly before serving for an extra gooey experience.
• With Ice Cream: Pair with vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert combo.

At Potlucks

• Cut into Small Squares: Making bite-sized pieces makes them easy to share.
• Add Toppings: Offer chocolate sauce or whipped cream on the side for added flair.

During Movie Nights

• Plate Them Up: Serve on a decorative platter for an inviting presentation.
• Pair with Milk: A glass of cold milk enhances the flavors and makes for a comforting combo.

How to Perfect Knock You Bars

Perfecting your Knock You Bars is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out amazing every time:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps in achieving a creamy mixture when combining butter and sugars.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mixing just until combined keeps the bars soft and chewy.
• Check Your Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking, preventing under or overbaking.
• Cool Completely Before Cutting: This helps the bars set properly, making them easier to slice without falling apart.

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Best Side Dishes for Knock You Bars

Knock You Bars can be complemented by delicious side dishes that enhance your dessert experience. Consider these tasty options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the richness of the bars.
2. Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the bars.
3. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the bars for added indulgence and flavor depth.
4. Nutty Trail Mix: A crunchy nut mix offers a contrast in texture, making for an interesting snack alongside the bars.
5. Coffee or Tea: These beverages provide warmth and complement the sweet flavors perfectly.
6. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can create a savory contrast that enhances the sweet experience of the bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Knock You Bars can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough bars. Mix until just combined for a soft texture.
• Skipping the Cooling Time: Cutting the bars while still warm can result in messy pieces. Let them cool completely for clean cuts.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Properly: Accurate measurements are crucial for the right consistency and flavor. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
• Using Cold Eggs: Cold eggs can affect how well the dough comes together. Always use room temperature eggs for better mixing.
• Ignoring Baking Times: Every oven is different. Check your bars a few minutes before the suggested time to avoid overbaking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Keep your Knock You Bars in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Knock You Bars

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Knock You Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm bars for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat each bar on high for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat, covered, until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are Knock You Bars?

Knock You Bars are decadent dessert bars made of chocolate chip cookie dough with a gooey caramel and peanut butter center. They are rich and satisfying.

Can I customize my Knock You Bars?

Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts, swap chocolate chips for white chocolate, or even mix in some crushed cookies for extra crunch.

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

Look for a light golden brown top. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.

Are Knock You Bars suitable for potlucks?

Yes! These bars are perfect for sharing at potlucks, parties, or any gathering since they’re easy to transport and serve.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them a day ahead and store them in the fridge or freeze them for later enjoyment.

Final Thoughts

These Knock You Bars are truly something special—rich, chewy, and packed with flavor. They offer versatility that makes them easy to tweak according to your favorite ingredients. Whether you’re preparing them as a treat for yourself or bringing them along to share with friends, these bars are sure to impress everyone who tries them!

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Desserts

SEO Information

SEO Title: Irresistible Knock You Bars that Will Delight Everyone

Meta Description: Discover how to make delicious Knock You Bars! These caramel cookie delights are perfect for any occasion. Try them today!

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