Are you craving that irresistible combination of crunchy peanut butter, chewy caramel, and rich chocolate? Forget store-bought – let's make your own Whatchamacallit candy bars! This recipe is surprisingly easy, delivers amazing results, and is perfect for satisfying those sweet cravings. It’s a fun project for a rainy afternoon, a thoughtful homemade gift, or simply the best way to enjoy a delicious treat. Get ready to dive into the world of homemade candy making with this easy recipe.
Ingredients:
For the Peanut Butter Filling:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Caramel Layer:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Chocolate Coating:
- 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional, for smoother chocolate)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling
- In a medium bowl, combine the peanut butter, powdered sugar, softened butter, and vanilla extract.
- Mix thoroughly until a smooth and creamy consistency is achieved. If the mixture is too thick, add a teaspoon of milk or cream at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Caramel
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar, corn syrup, and water.
- Do not stir! Cook, swirling the pan occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and turns a light amber color. This takes patience; don't rush this step.
- Carefully pour in the heavy cream (it will bubble up!), then whisk constantly until smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in the butter and salt until melted and incorporated. Let the caramel cool slightly.
Step 3: Assemble the Candy Bars
- Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to lift the finished bars out easily.
- Spread the peanut butter filling evenly into the prepared pan.
- Pour the cooled caramel over the peanut butter layer, spreading it evenly.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or until the layers are firm.
Step 4: Create the Chocolate Coating
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using).
- Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the chocolate is melted and smooth.
Step 5: Finish and Enjoy!
- Once the caramel and peanut butter layers are firm, pour the melted chocolate over the top, spreading it evenly to cover completely.
- Refrigerate for at least another hour, or until the chocolate is set.
- Once firm, lift the candy bar slab out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang.
- Cut into squares and enjoy your homemade Whatchamacallit candy bars!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Candy Bars:
- Use a candy thermometer for the caramel: For perfectly cooked caramel, a candy thermometer ensures accurate temperature control, preventing burning or undercooking.
- Don't overmix the caramel: Overmixing can cause the caramel to become grainy.
- Work quickly with the chocolate: Melted chocolate cools quickly, so work efficiently to pour and spread it evenly.
- Chill thoroughly: Proper chilling ensures the layers set firmly and the candy bars hold their shape.
Variations:
- Add nuts: Sprinkle chopped peanuts, pecans, or cashews over the peanut butter layer for extra crunch.
- Use different chocolate: Experiment with dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or white chocolate for variations in flavor.
- Drizzle with sea salt: A sprinkle of sea salt on top of the chocolate adds a delicious salty-sweet contrast.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the specific ingredients used. For a detailed nutritional breakdown, use a nutrition calculator with your ingredient brands and portion sizes.
This recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a delicious homemade treat, perfect for sharing or indulging in yourself. The process is simple, the results are phenomenal, and the customization options are endless! Enjoy the deliciousness!