Peanut Butter Caramel Slices

I adore these Peanut Butter Caramel Slices—they layer a buttery shortbread base with creamy peanut butter, gooey caramel, and a smooth chocolate topping. Each bite combines sweet, salty, and nutty flavors in a bite-sized delight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how these slices deliver a perfect balance: rich caramel meets creamy peanut butter on a crisp shortbread base, topped with chocolate. They’re easy to make, don’t need fancy tools, and are perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth, sharing at parties, or gifting.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour

• Unsalted butter, softened (for the base)

• Granulated sugar (for the base)

• Smooth peanut butter (no-stir)

• Light brown sugar (for caramel)

• Heavy cream or sweetened condensed milk (for caramel)

• Unsalted butter (for caramel)

• Salt (for caramel)

• Semi-sweet or milk chocolate (for topping)

• Optional: flaky sea salt (for sprinkling on top)

Directions

1. I preheat my oven to 350 °F (175 °C) and line a square baking pan with parchment paper.

2. I make the shortbread base by creaming softened butter and granulated sugar, then mixing in flour until a soft dough forms. I press it firmly into the pan and bake for about 15 minutes until lightly golden.

3. While the base cools slightly, I spread a generous layer of smooth peanut butter evenly over it.

4. I make the caramel by melting butter, brown sugar, cream, and a pinch of salt in a saucepan, stirring until thickened and smooth. I pour it over the peanut butter layer and let it cool until just set.

5. Once the caramel is stable, I melt the chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over simmering water (or in short bursts in the microwave), stirring until silky. I pour it over the caramel and spread it into an even layer.

6. If I’m feeling fancy, I sprinkle flaky sea salt on top.

7. I chill the pan in the fridge for at least 2 hours until the layers firm up.

8. I lift the set slab using the parchment overhang and cut into small squares or bars with a sharp knife.

9. I store the slices in the fridge until serving, then let them sit for a few minutes at room temperature for easy eating.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes about 16–20 small slices

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Bake Time (base): 15 minutes

• Cooling & Chilling Time: About 2 hours

• Total Time: Roughly 2 hours 35 minutes (mostly hands-off chill time)

Variations

• Peanut butter swap: I use crunchy peanut butter or switch to almond or cashew butter for a different nutty flavor.

• Salted caramel: I add extra flaky sea salt to the caramel layer for a salted caramel twist.

• Nutty crunch: I sprinkle chopped roasted peanuts or pretzel pieces on the chocolate layer before it sets.

• White chocolate twist: I pour melted white chocolate over dark—or vice versa—for a two‑tone effect.

• Mini bites: I press the base and layers into mini muffin tins and chill for individual caramel cups.

Storage/Reheating

I store the slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For easier bites, I let them sit on the counter for 5–10 minutes before serving. If I want the caramel softer, I warm them briefly in a 300 °F oven (about 5 minutes) or pop a piece in the microwave for 5 seconds.

FAQs

How do I cut clean squares without chocolate cracking?

I warm my knife under hot water, wipe it dry, and make a single smooth cut. I rinse and reheat between cuts for neat edges.

Can I use salted butter in the base?

Yes—I use salted butter if preferred. I omit the extra pinch of salt in the caramel to avoid oversalting.

Can I freeze these slices?

Absolutely—I layer them between parchment in a container and freeze for up to 3 months. I thaw in the fridge for a few hours before serving.

Is there a dairy-free version?

Yes—I use plant‑based butter, coconut cream, and dairy‑free chocolate. They still turn out rich and delicious.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes—I swap the flour for a 1-to-1 gluten‑free blend and ensure the ingredients are gluten‑free certified.

Conclusion

These Peanut Butter Caramel Slices are the perfect treat when I want something rich, sweet, and satisfying. With layers of buttery shortbread, creamy peanut butter, velvety caramel, and chocolate, they’re easy to make yet feel indulgent. Whether I keep them for myself or share them with loved ones, they always disappear fast.