Caramel Cashew Dream Bars
Craving easy Caramel cashew bars recipe Cashew These caramel cashew bars are like millionaires shortbread but better Salty chewy and perfect with tea Get the recipe ... Healthy Eats
Recipe Introduction: Craving Caramel Cashew Perfection?
Ever get that nagging sweet tooth? Yeah, me too. That's when this caramel cashew bars recipe comes to the rescue! Seriously, these are divine.
They are the perfect blend of salty and sweet.
Quick Hook: The Ultimate Treat
This Caramel cashew bars recipe is your new best friend. Think rich, buttery caramel and crunchy cashews. It's a flavor explosion in every bite!
Brief Overview: A Classic with a Twist
These Caramel cashew bars are like a fancy twist on the classic millionaire's shortbread. They have a buttery shortbread base.
Next comes the amazing caramel and those glorious cashews. This recipe is medium difficulty. The total time is about 1 hour 45 minutes.
It yields 24 bars. Perfect for sharing... or not!
Main Benefits: A Cashew Lover's Dream
Cashews bring healthy fats. They also bring a satisfying crunch. Serve these cashew dessert bars at your next party. They are guaranteed to be a hit.
What makes this recipe special? It is the perfect balance of textures and flavors. Honestly, you won't be able to stop at just one.
Now, let's talk ingredients. You'll need stuff for the crust and the caramel. Don't worry, it's all pretty standard fare.
Alright, buckle up, buttercup. We're diving into the nitty-gritty for these Caramel Cashew bars recipe Cashew . Honestly, having the right bits and bobs makes all the difference.
It transforms a good bake into a stellar one, you know?
Caramel Cashew Dream Bars Recipe Card
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
Ingredients: Let's Get This Show on the Road!
Main Players: The Stars of Our Show
Okay, here's the lowdown on what you'll need. Don't worry. It's not rocket science.
Crust:
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups (250g) . Ordinary flour will do the trick.
- Packed light brown sugar: 1/2 cup (100g) .
- Unsalted butter: 1 cup (226g) , very cold. The colder, the better. Like, straight-from-the-fridge cold.
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon (1.5g) . Just a pinch to bring out the sweetness.
Caramel Topping:
- Packed light brown sugar: 1 cup (200g) . Yep, more brown sugar. That's what gives it that caramel flavour.
- Unsalted butter: 2/3 cup (151g) .
- Light corn syrup: 1/4 cup (60ml) . Keeps the caramel smooth, like silk.
- Heavy cream: 2 tablespoons (30ml) . This adds richness, pure decadence.
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon (1.5g) . Don't skip the salt.
- Salted cashew halves: 2 cups (approx. 250g) , lightly chopped. Hello Cashew . It is the Caramel Cashew Bars recipe Cashew . Use the cashew, is a must ingredient, otherwise, just make the caramel slice recipe
- Vanilla extract: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) . A dash of vanilla makes everything better.
Seasoning: A Little Spice Never Hurt
Now, I know some folks go crazy with spices. I love it and recommend it. But, for these Easy cashew bars recipe , simplicity is key.
A good pinch of salt balances the sweetness. Vanilla extract adds a warm touch. That's it! If you're feeling wild, a tiny pinch of cinnamon in the crust wouldn't hurt.
Equipment: Bare Essentials
Let's talk kit. You don't need a fancy kitchen for this Caramel Cashew Bars . A few basics will do the trick.
- 9x13 inch baking pan .
- Parchment paper . Trust me, you need it.
- Mixing bowl .
- Pastry cutter (optional). Fingers work just fine, though.
- Saucepan (medium size).
- Measuring cups and spoons . Get your measurements right.
- Rubber spatula or wooden spoon .
Honestly, this recipe is all about embracing the chaos, you know? So, even if you don't have every single tool, don't sweat it.
A fork can mash the butter into the flour. A smaller pan will just mean thicker bars. We're making Homemade caramel cashew bars , not performing brain surgery!
Making the Dream Caramel Cashew Bars
Oh my gosh, are you ready for this? We're diving into Caramel Cashew Bars , and honestly, these are not just any bars.
Think of them like millionaire's shortbread recipe 's cool American cousin. This cashew bars recipe is kinda my go-to when I need a treat that wows .
Prep Steps: Getting Our Ducks in a Row
This is where we make sure everything is ready. Think of it as your cooking zen garden. First, mise en place .
It sounds fancy. But it means getting all your ingredients measured and prepped. Chop those cashew halves. I find this way helps save time!
Safety reminder: caramel is molten sugar lava. Seriously, be careful. It can cause bad burns.
Step-by-Step: From Chaos to Chewy Caramel Cashew Bars
- Preheat your oven to 350° F ( 175° C) . Get your 9x13 pan ready.
- Make the crust. Mix flour, brown sugar, and salt. Cut in cold butter.
- Press this into your pan and bake for 15- 20 minutes . Look for light golden.
- Now, for the caramel: brown sugar, butter, corn syrup, cream, and salt in a saucepan.
- Boil this gently. Stir for 2 minutes. It needs to thicken, for this best caramel cashew bars .
- Take it off the heat. Stir in vanilla and those glorious cashews.
- Pour this over the crust. Bake for another 10- 15 minutes .
- Cool completely and chill for at least 1 hour. Then slice and dive in.
Pro Tips for Homemade Caramel Cashew Bars
Want easy cashew bars recipe ? Don't overbake the caramel. It gets hard! If you have a thermometer, aim for 245° F ( 118° C) for the caramel.
It makes it perfectly chewy.
Common mistakes? Not using cold butter. The crust won't be right. Also, the parchment paper is everything. It helps cut into perfect Caramel slice recipe .
Make-ahead option? Totally. You can make the bars a day or two ahead. Just keep them in the fridge. So, if you are looking for Salted Cashew Caramel Bars , try adding a pinch of salt.
Recipe Notes for Your Caramel Cashew Bars Recipe
These Caramel Cashew Bars are more than just a recipe. They're a hug in bar form. These bars are easy, but the caramel can be tricky. Don't worry, I've got some tips.
Serving Suggestions: Make 'Em Look Fab!
Think presentation! Cut into squares or fancy diamond shapes. A simple plate makes these homemade caramel cashew bars pop. How about a dollop of whipped cream? Or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, innit ? A cuppa tea or coffee is a must.
I personally love a glass of cold milk. These bars will taste amazing whatever you serve them with.
Storage Tips: Keep 'Em Fresh!
Pop these chewy caramel cashew bars in an airtight container. They'll happily live in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Honestly, they never last that long in my house. Wanna keep them longer? Freeze them. Wrap individually and they will be good for up to 2 months.
Thaw in the fridge overnight. I sometimes sneak one straight from the freezer!
Variations: Make It Your Own!
Got dietary needs? No worries! For a gluten-free version, you can try making these as salted caramel only bars . Just leave out the crust and make the topping on its own to a parchment paper covered container! You could also try using vegan butter.
Try pecans, or any nut for a twist on this caramel cashew bars recipe Cashew . I have a friend with nut allergies, so I use sunflower seeds sometimes.
It's like a caramel slice recipe, but with a nutty upgrade!
Nutrition Basics: A Little Treat
Okay, let's be real. These best caramel cashew bars are a treat, not a health food. Each bar is around 250-300 calories.
There's some protein and fat from the cashews. The real star? The sugar! But hey, everything in moderation, right? These Easy Cashew Bars Recipe is all about those moments of joy!
Alright then, get in the kitchen and have a go at this. You are in for a serious treat. These caramel cashew bars recipe Cashew are so delicious.
Don't be shy – give it a bash and let me know how you got on! You won't regret it.
Frequently Asked Questions
My caramel is too hard! What went wrong with my Caramel Cashew Bars recipe Cashew?
Ah, a common caramel conundrum! Overcooked caramel is usually the culprit. Keep a close eye on it while it's boiling – you're aiming for a soft, chewy consistency, not a rock-hard one. Use a candy thermometer if you have one; 245°F (118°C) is the sweet spot. Also, make sure you're stirring constantly to prevent scorching, which can also lead to a hard caramel.
Can I make these Caramel Cashew Dream Bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars are perfect for making in advance. Once cooled and cut, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. They also freeze well for longer storage – just wrap them individually or in small batches to prevent sticking. Think of it as your own little stash for when those cravings hit!
I'm allergic to cashews! What can I substitute in this Caramel Cashew Bars recipe Cashew?
No worries, nut allergies don't have to mean missing out! You can easily substitute the cashews with other nuts like pecans or walnuts. For a nut-free option, sunflower seeds or pepitas (pumpkin seeds) work wonderfully and add a lovely crunch. Just remember to lightly chop them before adding them to the caramel.
My crust is crumbly and won't stick together. How can I fix it?
A crumbly crust is often due to not enough moisture. Ensure your butter is very cold and cut into small cubes. If the mixture is still too dry, try adding a tablespoon of ice water at a time until the dough just comes together. Don't overwork the dough, though, as that can make it tough. Press it firmly and evenly into the pan before baking.
Are there any nutritional benefits to these Caramel Cashew Bars recipe Cashew?
Let's be honest, these are primarily a treat, so the nutritional profile is what you might expect - relatively high in calories, sugar, and fat. Cashews do offer some protein, healthy fats, and minerals like magnesium and zinc. However, it’s best to enjoy these bars in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Perhaps a smaller slice with a cup of tea!
Can I make these Caramel Cashew Dream Bars Gluten-Free?
You can indeed! To make these bars gluten-free, simply omit the crust. Alternatively, find your favourite gluten-free shortbread recipe for the base, or make your own using a gluten-free flour blend. Check the labels on all your ingredients to ensure they're certified gluten-free. The caramel itself is naturally gluten-free, so that's one less thing to worry about!
