Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or wooden spoon
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Saucepan
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Spatula
Storage and Freezing Tips
Million Dollar Bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you’d like to make them ahead of time, they also freeze well. To freeze, layer the bars between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature for a few hours.
Tips for Perfect Million Dollar Bars
- Use good-quality chocolate: Since chocolate is a key component of these bars, opt for high-quality chocolate chips or baking chocolate to ensure the best flavor.
- Caramel consistency: When making the caramel, keep an eye on the consistency. It should be thick enough to set but not so thick that it becomes too chewy. Cooking it until golden brown will give the perfect texture.
- Cutting the bars: To make slicing easier, let the bars sit at room temperature for a few minutes after refrigerating. This softens the chocolate slightly and helps prevent cracking when you cut them.
- Customize your bars: For a different flavor twist, try adding sea salt to the caramel layer, or mix in chopped nuts or toffee bits for extra crunch.
Variations and Substitutes
- Salted caramel: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on the caramel layer before adding the chocolate for a delightful sweet-salty contrast.
- Nutty addition: Add a layer of chopped nuts, such as pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts, between the caramel and chocolate layers for extra texture and flavor.
- White chocolate version: If you prefer white chocolate, substitute the semisweet chocolate with melted white chocolate for a different spin on the classic Million Dollar Bars.