Knock You Naked Bars

Get ready for the ultimate dessert bar that truly lives up to its name! Knock You Naked Bars feature gooey caramel, rich chocolate, and a soft, cookie-like base all baked into one heavenly bite. With just the right amount of chew, crunch, and creamy caramel, these indulgent bars are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for potlucks, bake sales, or anytime you’re craving something over-the-top delicious.

Why You’ll Love Knock You Naked Bars

• Soft, chewy, and gooey layers in every bite
• A rich caramel and peanut butter center that melts beautifully
• Made from simple pantry ingredients
• Chocolate chips for classic sweetness
• Easy to cut, store, and share!

Ingredients

Bars

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

Caramel Sauce

• 5 oz evaporated milk
• 1 (14 oz) bag caramels (unwrapped)
• ½ cup peanut butter

Directions

Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Make the Cookie Dough

3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
4. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy.
5. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
6. Gradually stir in the flour mixture, mixing until just combined.
7. Fold in the chocolate chips.

Build the Base

8. Press half of the cookie dough into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form an even base.
9. Bake for 8–10 minutes, just until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.

Make the Caramel Sauce

10. In a double boiler or saucepan over low heat, combine the caramels and evaporated milk. Stir constantly until the caramels are fully melted and smooth.
11. Stir in the peanut butter until fully blended and creamy.

Layer the Caramel

12. Pour the warm caramel-peanut butter mixture evenly over the baked cookie base. Use a spatula to spread it out if needed.

Add the Top Layer

13. Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of the remaining cookie dough over the caramel layer. Do not spread—allow some of the caramel to peek through.

Final Bake

14. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden brown and set.
15. Remove from oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting.

Pro Tips and Variations

• Use parchment paper for easy cleanup and smooth lifting.
• Don’t overbake—you want the center to stay soft and slightly gooey.
• Add chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.
• Sprinkle a touch of sea salt on the caramel for a salty-sweet twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream
• Cut into small squares for a cookie tray or dessert bar spread
• Pair with coffee or hot cocoa for a cozy treat

Storage/Reheating

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• To freeze: wrap individually and place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• To reheat: microwave a bar for 10–15 seconds to warm it up and re-soften the caramel.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of melting caramels?
Yes! Just make sure the sauce is thick and spoonable so it forms a defined layer.

Can I make these without peanut butter?
Absolutely—just omit it. You can also add an extra tablespoon of butter to the caramel for smoothness.

What if I only have a metal pan?
Use it! Just reduce bake time slightly and monitor to prevent over-browning.

Can I double this recipe?
Yes! Use a sheet pan and adjust baking time as needed.

Conclusion

These Knock You Naked Bars are gooey, rich, and downright irresistible. With a decadent layer of peanut butter caramel tucked between soft cookie dough, this dessert is one you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re hosting friends or treating yourself, these bars will absolutely leave everyone “knocked out” with flavor.

Print