Salt River Bars Classic

These Salt River Bars deliver a perfect balance of salty and sweet with layers of crispy crackers, rich caramel, and a luscious chocolate topping. This recipe has been my go-to treat whenever I want to impress friends with minimal effort because it looks complicated but comes together easily.

I first made these bars for a holiday party and they disappeared so fast that everyone asked for the recipe. Now I make them anytime I want an indulgent but simple dessert.

Ingredients

• Club crackers: These form the crisp and sturdy base and layers so choose a fresh box to keep them crunchy
• Salted butter: Adds richness and salt enhances the caramel flavor
• Light brown sugar: Gives the caramel a deep molasses sweetness and pack it firmly to ensure accurate measuring
• Graham cracker crumbs: Provide texture and flavor in the caramel mixture and use fresh crumbs for best results
• Heavy cream: Makes the caramel sauce creamy and smooth so don’t substitute with lower fat dairy
• Milk chocolate chips: Add classic sweetness to the topping and pick a quality brand that melts smoothly
• Butterscotch chips: Bring a buttery sweetness that complements the peanut butter nicely
• Creamy peanut butter: Adds a nutty richness to the topping and use natural or processed as you prefer
• Maldon sea salt for finishing: Gives a touch of crunch and bursts of salt flavor against the sweet topping

Instructions

Sauté the base and prepare the pan:

Line a 9 by 13 inch pan with parchment paper leaving extra over the edges for easy removal later. Spray parchment and sides with nonstick spray to stop sticking. Arrange the crackers on the bottom in five rows of six, trimming any pieces to make a snug fit.

Make the caramel sauce:

In a medium heavy bottom pan melt the butter, brown sugar, graham cracker crumbs, and heavy cream together over medium heat while constantly stirring to prevent burning. Bring mixture to a boil and keep stirring as you boil for seven minutes to develop rich caramel flavor and smooth texture.

Layer the crackers and caramel:

Pour half of the caramel over the cracker layer spreading evenly but quickly before it starts to set. Add another full layer of crackers on top of the caramel while it is still warm, then pour the remaining caramel over the second layer. Finish with a third layer of crackers on top.

Chill to set the caramel layers:

Place the pan in the refrigerator to chill and allow the caramel to firm up while you prepare the chocolate topping.

Prepare the chocolate peanut butter topping:

In a microwave safe bowl combine milk chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, and creamy peanut butter. Microwave for 30 to 45 seconds and stir well. Continue microwaving in 15 second intervals stirring each time until the mixture is completely smooth and glossy.

Finish the bars:

Pour the melted chocolate mixture evenly over the top cracker layer spreading to all edges. Sprinkle Maldon sea salt over the chocolate while still warm to add bursts of saltiness. Chill the bars for one to two hours until set.

Cut and serve:

Use the parchment edges to lift the bars from the pan for easier cutting. Use a sharp knife to slice into bars and serve.

I love how the combination of crunchy, sweet, and salty elements keeps everyone coming back for another piece. This was a favorite at my last family gathering where kids and adults alike could not stop raving about that unique salted chocolate finish.

Storage Tips

Keep bars covered in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain crisp layers. They also freeze well so you can make ahead large batches for easy treats later. Allow them to thaw in the refrigerator before serving to retain texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Butter can be swapped for unsalted but add a pinch of salt to the caramel mixture. Heavy cream can be substituted with full fat coconut milk for a dairy free option but flavor will vary slightly. Use semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips if you prefer a less sweet topping; add a touch more peanut butter to balance.

Serving Suggestions

These bars pair perfectly with a cup of black coffee or a rich glass of milk to balance their sweetness. They also make adorable homemade gifts when wrapped in parchment and tied with twine.

These bars balance complexity and ease, making them perfect for both holidays and everyday indulgence.

FAQs about Recipes

→ What type of crackers are best for the base?

Club crackers provide a sturdy, buttery foundation that holds up well under the caramel and layers.

→ How do you achieve the smooth chocolate topping?

Melting milk chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, and creamy peanut butter together in short intervals ensures a silky, even spread.

→ Why is Maldon sea salt used on top?

Maldon sea salt flakes add a delicate crunch and enhance the overall flavor by balancing sweetness with subtle saltiness.

→ Can the bars be prepared ahead of time?

Yes, chilling the bars for 1-2 hours helps the layers to set firmly, making slicing and serving easier later.

→ Is it necessary to line the pan with parchment paper?

Lining the pan with parchment paper and leaving edges overhang helps to easily lift the bars out without breaking.