Pin it
My Knock You Naked Bars are pure dessert magic bringing together gooey caramel peanut butter and chocolate in every irresistible bite. The name says it all these bars are so deliciously decadent they'll knock your socks off. After years of making these I still can't decide if I should share them or keep them all to myself.
What Makes These Bars Special
I love how these bars hit all the right notes sweet salty gooey and chewy. That caramel layer just melts into the cookie base while chocolate chips add little bursts of richness. They're perfect for parties but honestly they never last long enough to leave my kitchen. Good thing they freeze beautifully when I manage to save some.
Ingredients You'll Need
- Flour: Creates that perfect chewy cookie base I love.
- Baking Soda: Just enough lift for the perfect texture.
- Salt: Brings out all those amazing flavors.
- Butter: Makes everything rich and wonderful.
- Sugar: For that perfect golden top.
- Brown Sugar: Adds such nice caramel notes.
- Vanilla Extract: Gives warmth to every layer.
- Eggs: Holds everything together beautifully.
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: Little pockets of melty heaven.
- Evaporated Milk: Makes the creamiest caramel.
- Caramels: The star of our gooey center.
- Peanut Butter: Just enough for that nutty kick.
How to Make Knock You Naked Bars
- Prepare Your Pan
- Start with a 350°F oven and a well greased 9x13 pan trust me on the greasing.
- Mix Dry Ingredients
- Whisk your flour baking soda and salt together set them aside.
- Make Cookie Dough
- Beat those butters and sugars until fluffy add eggs and vanilla then mix in dry ingredients and chips.
- Bake the Base
- Spread half that dough in your pan bake it just until set about 8 10 minutes.
- Make the Caramel Filling
- Melt those caramels with evaporated milk stir in peanut butter until silky smooth pour over the base.
- Top with Remaining Dough
- Drop spoonfuls of dough over that gorgeous caramel layer spread it gently.
- Bake Again
- Back in the oven for 15 20 minutes until golden then comes the hard part waiting for them to cool.
The Story Behind These Bars
Every time I make these bars people ask about the name one bite and they understand. That combination of cookie caramel and chocolate creates something truly spectacular. They're my go to when I need a dessert that'll make everyone smile.
Mix It Up
Sometimes I skip the peanut butter for allergies or swap in white chocolate chips for a change. Just stick with evaporated milk not condensed the bars are plenty sweet already.
Keeping Them Fresh
Let these cool completely before cutting trust me on this one. They'll stay good in a container for 3 days if they last that long. Pop them in the freezer for up to 3 months they thaw beautifully.
Make Them Extra Special
I love serving these with vanilla ice cream or fresh berries for contrast. A hot cup of coffee or cold glass of milk makes them even better. When I'm feeling fancy I'll drizzle extra caramel on top pure dessert bliss.
Pin it
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What kind of caramels should I use?
- Wrapped soft caramel candies work best, typically found in the candy aisle. Avoid caramel sauce as it won't provide the right consistency.
- → Why use a double boiler for the caramel?
- A double boiler helps melt the caramel mixture evenly without burning, ensuring a smooth texture.
- → Can I make these ahead?
- Yes, these bars can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container. Layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- → Why bake the bottom layer first?
- Pre-baking the bottom layer creates a sturdy base that can support the heavy caramel filling.
- → How do I know when they're done?
- The top should be light golden brown and set around the edges, though the center might still seem slightly soft.