I was hooked after having one bite of this treat
Ingredients:
⅓ cup cocoa powder
1¼ cups flour
1 cup powdered sugar
4 tablespoons heavy cream
½ cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts, pecans, or a mix)
1 cup caramel or butterscotch baking chips
1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 teaspoon salt
2 sticks unsalted butter, at room temperature (reserve 2 tablespoons)
PREPARATION:
-Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
-In a mixing bowl, beat 1¾ sticks of butter and the powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
-Gradually mix in the cocoa powder and flour until well combined.
-Press the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish and bake for 15 minutes.
-While the crust bakes, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter with the sweetened condensed milk in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until the mixture thickens, then stir in the vanilla extract.
-Pour this mixture over the baked crust and return to the oven for an additional 8-10 minutes.
-Meanwhile, toast the nuts lightly, then chop them coarsely. Set aside.
-In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the caramel chips with the heavy cream, stirring until smooth. Fold the toasted nuts and salt into the caramel mixture.
-Spread the nutty caramel layer over the bars and allow them to cool completely before slicing.
-These Chewy Nutty Squirrel Bars are not just a treat for humans but symbolize a sweet connection to the wildlife that inspires joy and wonder in our lives. Enjoy crafting these delicious bars and perhaps share a moment of appreciation for the squirrels and the natural world around us.
Enjoy !
