Knock You Naked Bars Recipe

Looking for a dessert that’s sure to impress? Knock You Naked Bars are the perfect blend of caramel, chocolate, and a soft cookie-like base that will leave everyone asking for the recipe. These indulgent bars are ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a potluck, a party, or just a special treat for yourself.

What Are Knock You Naked Bars?

Knock You Naked Bars are rich, layered dessert bars that feature a gooey caramel center surrounded by layers of chocolate chips and nuts, all encased in a delicious, soft cookie dough. They are called “Knock You Naked Bars” because their incredible taste will leave you speechless!

Key Ingredients

Caramel

• Caramel Squares: Use individually wrapped caramels for convenience.
• Heavy Cream: Helps to create a smooth, creamy caramel layer.

Chocolate Chips

• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: These provide the perfect balance of sweetness.

Nuts

• Chopped Pecans: Add a crunchy texture and a rich, nutty flavor.

Basic Baking Ingredients

• Butter: Unsalted, for controlling the salt content.
• Sugar: Both granulated and brown sugar for depth of flavor.
• Flour: All-purpose flour for the base of the dough.
• Baking Powder: For a bit of rise and fluffiness.
• Salt: To enhance the overall flavor.
• Eggs: For binding the dough.
• Vanilla Extract: For an extra layer of flavor.

Essential Baking Tools

1. 9×13-inch Baking Pan: For baking the bars.
2. Mixing Bowls: Various sizes for mixing ingredients.
3. Electric Mixer: To cream the butter and sugars.
4. Saucepan: For melting the caramel.
5. Parchment Paper: For lining the baking pan.
6. Spatula: For spreading the dough and caramel.

Step-by-Step Preparation

Preparing the Ingredients

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Pan: Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.

Mixing the Dough

3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of unsalted butter, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 cup of packed brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in 2 large eggs, one at a time, then add 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract.
5. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 2½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Stir in Chocolate Chips and Nuts: Fold in 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips and 1 cup of chopped pecans.

Layering the Bars

7. Spread the Dough: Spread half of the dough into the prepared baking pan, pressing it into an even layer.
8. Prepare the Caramel: In a saucepan over low heat, melt 14 ounces of caramel squares with ⅓ cup of heavy cream, stirring constantly until smooth.
9. Add the Caramel Layer: Pour the melted caramel over the dough layer in the pan, spreading it evenly.
10. Top with Remaining Dough: Drop spoonfuls of the remaining dough over the caramel layer and gently spread to cover.

Baking

11. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cooling and Serving

12. Cool: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
13. Cut and Serve: Once cooled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Cut into squares and serve.

Tips for Perfect Knock You Naked Bars

• Use Parchment Paper: This makes it much easier to remove the bars from the pan.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the bars towards the end of the baking time to ensure they remain gooey in the center.
• Even Layers: Spread the dough and caramel as evenly as possible for consistent texture.

Variations and Substitutions

• Different Nuts: Swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds.
• Chocolate Variety: Use dark chocolate chips or chunks for a richer flavor.
• Add Sea Salt: Sprinkle a little sea salt on top of the caramel layer for a sweet and salty contrast.

Serving Suggestions

• Warm with Ice Cream: Serve warm bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Coffee or Tea: Enjoy a bar with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
• Gift Idea: Wrap individual bars in parchment paper and tie with a ribbon for a homemade gift.

Storing and Freezing

• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the bars in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Nutritional Information

Each serving (based on 24 bars) has approximately:

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 20g

Conclusion

Knock You Naked Bars are an irresistible treat that combines the best of gooey caramel, rich chocolate, and crunchy nuts, all wrapped in a soft, cookie-like dough. They are easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try, and watch as these bars quickly become a favorite in your household.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of melting caramels? Yes, you can use store-bought caramel sauce. Just ensure it’s thick enough to create a solid layer in the bars.

2. Can I make these bars without nuts? Absolutely! Simply omit the nuts or replace them with an additional cup of chocolate chips.

3. How do I know when the bars are done baking? The top should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.

4. Can I add other mix-ins to the dough? Yes, feel free to add dried fruit, coconut flakes, or even different types of chocolate chips.

5. Are these bars gluten-free? Not as written, but you can make them gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour.

Enjoy your Knock You Naked Bars, and happy baking!

Source: julieseatsandtreats.com