Description
Salt River Bars are a decadent no-bake dessert featuring layers of buttery crackers, rich caramel, creamy peanut butter, and a glossy chocolate topping sprinkled with flaky sea salt. These sweet and salty bars offer a delightful combination of textures and flavors, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Base:
- 1 box club crackers (or buttery rectangular crackers)
For the Caramel Layer:
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- Pinch of salt
For the Peanut Butter Layer:
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup butterscotch chips
For the Chocolate Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- Flaky sea salt for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the baking dish: Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or foil and lightly grease to prevent sticking.
- Layer the base crackers: Arrange the club crackers evenly across the bottom of the dish, trimming to fit if needed.
- Make the caramel layer: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, then stir in brown sugar, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt. Bring the mixture to a boil and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning. Pour half of the caramel evenly over the first cracker layer.
- Add second cracker layer: Place another layer of crackers on top of the caramel, then pour and spread the remaining caramel layer evenly over these crackers.
- Add final cracker layer: Top with a third and final layer of crackers, pressing gently to set.
- Make the peanut butter layer: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the peanut butter and butterscotch chips. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring after each until smooth and combined. Pour this mixture evenly over the top cracker layer and spread smoothly.
- Prepare the chocolate topping: Melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips with heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl using 20-second bursts, stirring between each until the chocolate is smooth and glossy. Spread this chocolate layer over the peanut butter layer uniformly.
- Garnish and chill: Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the chocolate topping to enhance flavor. Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours or until completely set.
- Serve: Use a sharp, slightly warmed knife for clean cuts. Slice into approximately 24 bars and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- Using a sharp knife warmed under hot water helps make cleaner cuts without cracking the bars.
- Store these bars chilled for a firmer texture or at room temperature if you prefer a softer bite.
- For best flavor, allow the bars to chill the full recommended time so layers fully set.
