Better Than Anything Bars Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 box chocolate cake mix
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 jar (12 oz) caramel sauce
  • 1 cup crushed toffee bits (such as Heath)
  • 1 1/2 cups whipped topping or whipped cream
  • 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cake Base: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the instructions on the box, using the ingredients specified on the package (usually eggs, water, and oil). Once the batter is well mixed, pour it into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. This cake mix will form the rich chocolate base for your bars.
2. Bake the Cake: Bake the chocolate cake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool slightly in the pan while you prepare the rest of the layers. You want the cake to be firm enough to hold the gooey layers that will be added on top, but still warm enough for the next steps to come together.
3. Prepare the Caramel and Sweetened Condensed Milk Mixture: In a small saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk and caramel sauce. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is warm and well combined. The caramel will melt into the condensed milk, creating a smooth, velvety sauce that will soak into the cake.
4. Assemble the Bars: Once the cake has cooled for a few minutes but is still warm, use the handle of a wooden spoon or a fork to poke holes evenly across the surface of the cake. Pour the warm caramel and sweetened condensed milk mixture over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes. This will create the gooey, caramel-filled texture that makes these bars so irresistible. Be generous with the caramel mixture, ensuring that it covers the entire cake surface.
5. Add the Toffee Bits: Immediately sprinkle the crushed toffee bits (such as Heath) over the caramel-covered cake. The toffee bits will add a delicious crunch and a rich, buttery flavor that perfectly complements the caramel and chocolate layers. Press the toffee bits gently into the cake to ensure they stick.
6. Top with Whipped Topping: Let the cake cool completely, then spread the 1 1/2 cups of whipped topping or whipped cream evenly over the top. The whipped topping will add a light, creamy layer that balances the richness of the cake and caramel. If you’re using whipped cream, you can whip it yourself or use store-bought for convenience.
7. Garnish and Serve: For an extra touch of sweetness and decoration, sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the whipped topping. This optional step adds a bit of extra chocolate flavor and makes the bars even more visually appealing. Once everything is assembled, refrigerate the bars for at least 2-3 hours, or overnight if you have time. Chilling the bars allows them to set properly, making them easier to cut into neat squares.
8. Slice and Enjoy: Once the bars are fully chilled and set, slice them into squares or bars. Serve cold, and enjoy the layers of gooey caramel, rich chocolate cake, and crunchy toffee bits with every bite. These Better Than Anything Bars are perfect for parties, potlucks, or as a sweet treat for any occasion!
   

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