Better Than Anything Bars

Better Than Anything Bars are perfect for fall! They’re ideal for after-school snacks, cozy date nights, or even game day treats.

Ingredients

For the Bars:

• 1 cup butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 2 medium eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups milk chocolate chips or semi-sweet chocolate chips

For the Caramel Sauce:

• 14 ounces of caramels, unwrapped (or 14 ounces of caramel bits)
• 5 ounces canned evaporated milk (use only up to 5 ounces)
• 1/2 cup peanut butter

Instructions

For the Bars:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a 9″x13″ baking pan by spraying it with non-stick cooking spray.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then mix in the vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the flour, baking soda, and salt, mixing until fully combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.
5. Press half of the cookie dough into the bottom of the prepared baking pan and bake for 8-10 minutes.

For the Caramel Sauce:

1. While the dough is baking, place the unwrapped caramels and evaporated milk in a microwave-safe bowl.
2. Microwave on power level 5 for 1-2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds until combined. If necessary, add more time until fully melted.
3. Once melted, stir in the peanut butter until smooth.

To Assemble:

1. Spread the caramel mixture over the partially baked dough.
2. Drop the remaining cookie dough by teaspoons over the caramel layer.
3. Bake for an additional 17-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the dough is cooked through.

Let cool before slicing into bars, and enjoy the deliciousness!