Cake Mix Toffee Bars

Cake Mix Toffee Bars are my go-to easy dessert when I want something sweet, buttery, and irresistibly crunchy without spending hours baking. Using a simple cake mix as the base, these bars combine rich toffee bits and a golden, crisp crust with a chewy, sweet topping that always disappears fast. They’re perfect for potlucks, snack time, or just satisfying a sweet craving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how quick and fuss-free these bars are—just a handful of ingredients and one bowl, and the oven does the rest. The toffee adds a wonderful caramel crunch that pairs perfectly with the soft, buttery cake base. It’s a perfect balance of textures and flavors that feels homemade but comes together in a flash.

ingredients

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

• Yellow or vanilla cake mix

• Butter (melted)

• Toffee bits (like Heath or Skor)

• Optional: chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts)

• Optional: chocolate chips or drizzle

directions

1. I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, I combine the dry cake mix with melted butter and stir until crumbly but starting to hold together.

3. I press about two-thirds of the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.

4. I sprinkle a generous layer of toffee bits evenly over the crust. If I’m using nuts or chocolate chips, I sprinkle those on top of the toffee as well.

5. I crumble the remaining cake mix mixture over the top to cover the filling.

6. I bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and set.

7. After cooling completely, I cut the bars into squares and serve.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 24 bars. Prep takes about 10 minutes, with 25–30 minutes baking time, making it a quick and crowd-pleasing dessert.

Variations

I’ve added shredded coconut for a tropical twist or swapped some toffee bits for butterscotch chips for extra sweetness. Drizzling melted chocolate over the cooled bars adds a decadent finish. For a saltier balance, sprinkling flaky sea salt on top before baking works wonderfully.

storage/reheating

I store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. They don’t need reheating but can be warmed slightly in the microwave for a gooey treat.

FAQs

Can I use a different cake mix flavor?

Yes, yellow or vanilla works best, but I’ve experimented with butter or even spice cake for a unique twist.

Do I have to use toffee bits?

They’re key for the signature crunch and flavor, but chocolate chips or nuts alone can work in a pinch.

How do I prevent the bars from being too crumbly?

Pressing the crust firmly and evenly helps bind the layers together.

Can I freeze these bars?

Yes, I wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. I thaw at room temperature before serving.

Can I make these gluten-free?

I use a gluten-free cake mix, and they turn out just as delicious.

Conclusion

Cake Mix Toffee Bars are an easy, delicious dessert that combines buttery cake, crunchy toffee, and optional mix-ins for a treat that’s always a hit. I love how simple they are to make and how perfectly sweet and satisfying they turn out every time. Whether for a party, dessert, or snack, these bars never last long in my house.

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