“Better Than Anything Bars” (sometimes called Better Than Sex Bars) are rich, gooey dessert bars made with layers of chocolate, caramel, and sweetened condensed milk, typically on a graham cracker or cookie crust. Here’s a classic and indulgent recipe:
Better Than Anything Bars Recipe
Ingredients:
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1 box (about 15 oz) chocolate cake mix (or devil’s food)
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1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
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1/3 cup evaporated milk
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1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
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1 cup caramel sauce (or 1 bag of caramels melted with 2 tbsp heavy cream)
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Optional: chopped pecans or toffee bits for topping
Instructions:
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Preheat Oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line with parchment paper.
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Make the Dough Base:
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In a large bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, melted butter, and evaporated milk.
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Stir until a thick dough forms.
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Press and Bake the First Layer:
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Press half the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
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Bake for 8–10 minutes.
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Add Caramel Layer:
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While the base bakes, melt the caramels with heavy cream (if not using jarred caramel sauce).
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Once the base is out of the oven, pour the caramel sauce evenly over it.
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Sprinkle Chocolate Chips:
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Sprinkle the chocolate chips over the caramel layer (and nuts or toffee bits if using).
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Top with Remaining Dough:
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Drop the remaining dough in spoonfuls over the top; it won’t cover everything, and that’s okay.
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Bake Again:
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Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 20–25 minutes, or until the edges are set and bubbling slightly.
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Cool and Set:
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Let bars cool completely (even refrigerate for a cleaner cut) before slicing into squares or bars.
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Tips:
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Use parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.
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If using jarred caramel, make sure it’s thick enough to set as it cools.
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Add a pinch of sea salt on top for a salted caramel twist.