Better Than Anything Bars – The Ultimate Decadent Dessert!
Ingredients:
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (any brand)
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 jar (12 oz) caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup crushed toffee bits (like Heath or Daim)
- 1 1/2 cups whipped topping or homemade whipped cream
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional for topping)
Directions:
Step 1: Prepare the Base
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix with the melted butter. Do not add the eggs or water listed on the cake box — we want a thick, cookie-like dough.
- Press half of this dough into the bottom of a greased or parchment-lined 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Bake for 10 minutes — just enough to partially set the crust.
Step 2: Add the Gooey Filling
- Remove the dish from the oven and immediately pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the baked base.
- Drizzle half of the caramel sauce over the condensed milk.
- Sprinkle half of the crushed toffee bits over the top.
Step 3: Add the Top Layer
- Crumble the remaining dough over the filling — don’t worry about covering it completely.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20–25 minutes, or until the top is baked through and golden brown.
- Remove and let cool completely in the pan — this is key for neat slices later.
Step 4: Add the Toppings
- Once fully cooled, spread the whipped topping over the surface of the bars.
- Drizzle the remaining caramel sauce on top in a zigzag or spiral pattern.
- Finish with the rest of the toffee bits and optional mini chocolate chips for a picture-perfect finish.
Time Breakdown:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Bake time: 30–35 minutes
- Cooling & decorating: 60 minutes
Total: ~1 hour 45 minutes
Tips for Best Results:
- Chill before slicing to get clean, firm bars.
- Use homemade whipped cream for a fresher taste (just beat heavy cream + sugar).
- For extra richness, use dark chocolate cake mix and dark chocolate chips.