Knock You Naked Bars Recipe

If you’re craving a dessert that’s equal parts indulgent, gooey, and utterly addictive, then these Knock You Naked Bars are calling your name! Imagine a luscious caramel center sandwiched between layers of rich, chocolate-studded cookie dough—each bite delivering a perfect balance of sweetness, chewiness, and crunch. Whether you’re making these for a family gathering, a potluck, or a personal treat, be warned: they disappear fast!

What makes these bars so legendary? The magic lies in the interplay of buttery cookie dough, velvety caramel, and melty chocolate chips. They’re easy to whip up but taste like something straight out of a bakery. One bite, and you’ll understand why they have such a cheeky name—because they just might leave you speechless!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Insanely delicious – Buttery cookie dough, rich caramel, and chocolate in every bite.
• Simple ingredients – You probably already have most of these in your pantry.
• Make-ahead friendly – Stores beautifully and even freezes well.
• Crowd-pleaser – Perfect for parties, bake sales, or an indulgent midnight snack.

Ingredients needed

Cookie Dough Base

• All-Purpose Flour (2 ¼ cups) – The foundation of a perfect cookie texture.
• Baking Soda (1 tsp) – Helps the bars rise slightly.
• Salt (1 tsp) – Enhances all the flavors.
• Butter (1 cup, softened) – For that rich, buttery goodness.
• Granulated Sugar (¾ cup) & Brown Sugar (¾ cup, packed) – A mix of both creates the perfect balance of sweetness and chewiness.
• Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Adds warmth and depth of flavor.
• Eggs (2 large) – Binds everything together.
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (2 cups) – Because more chocolate is always a good idea!

Caramel Layer

• Evaporated Milk (5 oz) – Makes the caramel extra creamy.
• Caramels (14 oz bag) – Melts into a luscious, gooey filling.
• Peanut Butter (½ cup) – Adds a nutty depth that pairs beautifully with caramel.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cookie Dough

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. In a small bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.

In a large mixing bowl, beat together butter, both sugars, and vanilla extract until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until combined. Stir in chocolate chips.

2. Create the First Layer

Spread half of the cookie dough evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes—just until slightly set but not fully cooked.

3. Make the Caramel Layer

While the base is baking, melt caramels and evaporated milk in a double boiler (or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each). Once melted, stir in peanut butter until smooth.

4. Assemble the Bars

Pour the caramel mixture over the warm cookie base, spreading evenly. Drop spoonfuls of the remaining cookie dough over the caramel layer—don’t worry if it doesn’t fully cover, it will spread as it bakes.

5. Bake to Perfection

Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden brown. Let the bars cool completely before slicing (this allows the caramel to set).

Variations

• Nut-Free? Omit the peanut butter or replace it with cookie butter for a twist.
• Extra Crunch? Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the dough.
• Salty-Sweet? Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the caramel layer before baking.
• Dark Chocolate Lover? Swap semi-sweet chips for bittersweet chocolate chunks.

Storage & Freezing Tips

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Refrigerator: Keeps well for 1 week (but let them come to room temp before eating).
• Freezer: Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Store for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

Yes! If using pre-made caramel, make sure it’s thick enough to set properly between the layers.

2. Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake these bars a day or two in advance—just store them in an airtight container.

3. How do I get clean slices?

Let them cool completely, then use a sharp knife greased with butter or non-stick spray for neat cuts.

The Goods

Knock You Naked Bars

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Looking for a dessert that will wow everyone? These Knock You Naked Bars combine gooey caramel, rich chocolate, and a soft, cookie-like base for an irresistible treat. Perfect for potlucks, parties, or just a well-deserved indulgence!

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Recipes

• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup butter softened
• ¾ cup sugar
• ¾ cup packed brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 eggs
• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

Caramel Sauce:

• 5 ounces evaporated milk
• 1 14 oz bag caramels, unwrapped
• ½ cup peanut butter

Instructions

• Preheat & Prepare the Pan
• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
• Make the Cookie Dough
• In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
• In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla until creamy.
• Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
• Gradually mix in the dry ingredients.
• Stir in the chocolate chips.
• Bake the First Layer
• Spread half of the cookie dough evenly into the prepared pan.
• Bake for 8-10 minutes, then remove from the oven.
• Prepare the Caramel Sauce
• In a double boiler, melt the caramels with the evaporated milk, stirring constantly.
• Once smooth, stir in the peanut butter until fully combined.
• Pour the caramel mixture evenly over the baked cookie base.
• Add the Top Layer & Bake
• Drop spoonfuls of the remaining cookie dough over the caramel layer, spreading slightly.
• Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
• Cool & Serve
• Let the bars cool completely before slicing. Enjoy!