German Chocolate Cookie Bars

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There’s something simply magical about the combination of chocolate, coconut, and pecans. If you’ve ever craved the decadent richness of German chocolate cake but wanted something a little different, these German Chocolate Cookie Bars are the perfect solution. They’re chewy, gooey, and utterly indulgent. Made with a convenient German chocolate cake mix, these bars come together quickly and easily, making them a fantastic treat for gatherings or a cozy night in. Let’s dive into why you need to make these comforting delights!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

German Chocolate Cookie Bars are the ultimate sweet treat for anyone who adores chocolate desserts. The use of a cake mix simplifies the process, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels. Each bite offers a delightful contrast in textures: the chewy cookie base, the creamy caramel layer, and the pleasant crunch of nuts. If you’re looking for something that hits all the right cravings without requiring hours in the kitchen, this recipe is for you. Plus, it can easily be transported and shared, making it ideal for potlucks or picnics.

Ingredients

• 15.25 ounces German chocolate cake mix (1 box)
• ¾ cup butter, melted
• 1 cup milk, divided
• 11 ounces soft caramels
• 1 cup sweetened coconut flakes
• 1 cup pecans, chopped
• 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

How To Make German Chocolate Cookie Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the German chocolate cake mix with the melted butter and ½ cup of milk. Mix until just combined. The batter will be thick, so don’t worry if it’s not perfectly smooth. Spread this mixture evenly in the prepared pan, pressing it down with your fingertips.

Step 3: Make the Caramel Layer

In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the soft caramels with ½ cup of milk, stirring until smooth. You can also use the microwave; just heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until melted and creamy.

Step 4: Assemble the Bars

Pour the melted caramel evenly over the cookie base in the baking pan. Sprinkle the sweetened coconut flakes, chopped pecans, and semi-sweet chocolate chips over the caramel layer, pressing them down gently to ensure they adhere.

Step 5: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden and the center is set but still soft. A toothpick inserted in the center may come out with a few moist crumbs, which is the perfect indication of doneness.

Step 6: Cool and Slice

Allow the bars to cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before attempting to slice. For cleaner cuts, refrigerate for an hour after cooling. Use a sharp knife to cut into squares or bars, depending on your preference.

Expert Tips

• For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the batter.
• Ensure your caramels are soft and fresh for easier melting; if they’re hard, microwave them for a few seconds to soften.
• For added depth, try toasting the pecans before adding them to the bars.
• Don’t overbake! The bars should remain soft in the center to achieve that gooey texture.

Variations and Customizations

• Swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds if you prefer a different nut.
• To make these bars even more chocolatey, use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet.
• Add a pinch of sea salt on top before baking for a salted caramel version.
• For a touch of spice, mix in a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the cookie base.

How to Store Leftovers

To keep these delightful bars fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them for longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Alternatively, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of cake mix?

Absolutely! While German chocolate cake mix is delicious, you can experiment with other flavors, such as chocolate or devil’s food cake mix. This will change the overall flavor profile but can lead to equally tasty results.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix to make these bars gluten-free. Just ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

What if I can’t find soft caramels?

If you can’t find soft caramels, you can use caramel sauce instead. Just drizzle it over the cookie base instead of melting it. You can also consider melting hard caramels with a bit of cream to achieve a similar texture.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The edges will turn a light golden brown, and the center will look set. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter, indicating the bars are perfectly baked and chewy.

Conclusion

Indulging in a warm, gooey piece of German Chocolate Cookie Bars is truly one of life’s simple pleasures. They are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a birthday, heading to a potluck, or just treating yourself to something sweet. With minimal preparation and maximum flavor, these bars are bound to impress anyone who takes a bite. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and create a batch of these delightful treats today! You won’t regret it!

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