Homemade Snickers Bars Recipe

If you have a soft spot for that perfect combination of rich chocolate, creamy caramel, crunchy peanuts, and a fluffy peanut butter nougat, you’re in for a treat with this Homemade Snickers Bars Recipe. It’s a wonderfully fun and rewarding project that takes the iconic candy bar to a whole new level of homemade goodness. Each bite offers gooey, crunchy, and velvety textures that come together in harmony, making this a must-try sweet indulgence you’ll proudly make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward yet essential, each bringing its own charm to the Homemade Snickers Bars Recipe. From the silky chocolate layers to the fluffy nougat and sticky caramel, every component plays a vital role in creating the signature flavors and textures.

• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (divided): Provides the luscious chocolate layers that bookend the bars.
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens and caramelizes for that classic chewiness.
• 1/2 cup light corn syrup: Helps keep the caramel and nougat smooth and perfectly sticky.
• 1/4 cup water: Essential for dissolving the sugar and creating the syrup texture.
• 1 egg white (room temperature): Whips up wonderfully into the light nougat base.
• 1/8 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the sweet flavors while keeping balance.
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter: Adds a creamy, nutty depth right into the nougat.
• Salted peanuts (1 cup): Provides that signature crunch and salty contrast.
• 11 oz. bag of caramels: The sticky, buttery heart of these bars.
• 1/4 cup heavy cream: Makes the caramel irresistibly smooth and decadent.

How to Make Homemade Snickers Bars Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Start by lining an 8×8 square baking dish with parchment paper. This simple step makes lifting and slicing the bars after setting so much easier and cleaner. You’ll be thankful when the bars are ready to come out smoothly.

Step 2: Melt the First Chocolate Layer

Heat 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second bursts, stirring in between until the chocolate is luxuriously smooth. Spread this evenly in the baking dish to create the firm chocolate base, then chill in the freezer for at least 10 minutes to set it firmly.

Step 3: Make the Nougat Base

Combine granulated sugar, corn syrup, and water in a small saucepan, heating over medium heat. Attach a candy thermometer and carefully heat the syrup until it reaches 275 degrees Fahrenheit. Meanwhile, beat the egg white and salt on high speed until stiff peaks form, creating a light, cloud-like base for your nougat.

Step 4: Combine Syrup and Egg White

Once the syrup hits 275 degrees, remove it from heat. Slowly drizzle approximately one tablespoon of the hot sugar syrup into the beaten egg whites, pausing to mix thoroughly after each addition. This process takes patience but is key to achieving that thick, glossy marshmallow-like consistency.

Step 5: Mix in Peanut Butter and Spread the Nougat

Quickly stir creamy peanut butter into the nougat mixture, using a spatula lightly sprayed with non-stick spray to help manage the sticky mix. Spread this fluffy peanut butter nougat evenly over the chilled chocolate layer in your baking dish.

Step 6: Add the Crunchy Peanuts

Generously sprinkle whole salted peanuts over the nougat. Press them gently so they nestle into the surface, offering a perfect crunchy texture contrast once the bars are set.

Step 7: Prepare the Gooey Caramel Layer

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine caramels and heavy cream. Warm in 30-second increments, stirring between each, until everything is smooth and creamy. Pour this heavenly caramel over the peanut layer and refrigerate for about 5 minutes to let it firm up.

Step 8: Add the Final Chocolate Layer

Melt the remaining 1 cup of chocolate chips until silky. Spread this over the cooled caramel, creating a gorgeous glossy top that seals in all those scrumptious layers. Pop the dish back into the fridge until fully set.

Step 9: Slice and Serve

Run a warm knife along the edges of the set bars to loosen them from the dish. Lift the entire block out by the parchment paper, then cut into your desired sized bars. Keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to dive in and enjoy.

How to Serve Homemade Snickers Bars Recipe

Garnishes

Top each bar with a sprinkle of sea salt or a drizzle of additional melted chocolate for an extra touch of elegance and flavor contrast. Chopped peanuts or crushed toffee add even more texture and visual appeal that friends will love.

Side Dishes

Serve your Homemade Snickers Bars alongside a scoop of vanilla or coffee ice cream for a dreamy dessert experience. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream also pair beautifully to balance the rich sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut your bars into bite-sized squares and arrange them on a tiered dessert tray for parties. Wrapping individual pieces in parchment paper twists turns these treats into adorable homemade gifts perfect for sharing your favorite recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Homemade Snickers Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They keep their flavor and texture wonderfully for up to one week, making them perfect for prepping ahead or enjoying slowly.

Freezing

You can freeze these bars for longer storage by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container. When well wrapped, they hold up for up to 2 months without losing their signature layers and taste.

Reheating

Because these are best served chilled or at room temperature, reheating isn’t necessary. However, letting frozen bars thaw in the fridge overnight will restore their ideal texture and flavor without melting layers.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of chocolate?

Absolutely! While semi-sweet chocolate is classic for this recipe, you can swap it for milk or dark chocolate chips to tweak the sweetness and richness according to your preference.

Is it possible to make these nut-free?

You can skip the peanuts and peanut butter, but it will change the traditional Snickers flavor significantly. Consider using sunflower seed butter and seeds as alternatives if allergies are a concern.

How long does it take for the bars to set?

The main chilling steps take about 15 to 20 minutes total, but for best results, allow the bars to fully set in the fridge for at least an hour before slicing and serving.

Can I make the nougat ahead of time?

The nougat is best made fresh and spread immediately for the right texture. It doesn’t hold well as a separate component and is easiest to work with when warm and fresh from mixing.

What’s the best way to cut the bars cleanly?

Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water, then dried, before cutting. Wipe the knife between slices to keep edges neat and avoid dragging sticky layers.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly satisfying about making your own version of a beloved candy bar, and this Homemade Snickers Bars Recipe delivers that experience with flying colors. It’s a perfect balance of sweet, salty, crunchy, and creamy that feels both nostalgic and freshly delicious. I’m excited for you to try this recipe—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a delightful way to treat yourself and those you love!

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