Are you a sucker for all things sweet? Do you have a weakness for gooey caramel and crunchy pretzels? Look no further! We’ve got 20 mouth-watering recipes that feature Kraft Caramel Bits as the star of the show. From classic treats like caramel apples and brownies to creative twists like caramel-stuffed pancakes and cheesecake, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll dive into a world of sweet indulgence, where the only question is: which recipe will be your new favorite? Will it be the addictive caramel popcorn clusters, or perhaps the decadent caramel chocolate bark? Maybe you’re more of a breakfast person and prefer to start your day with caramel-stuffed French toast. Whatever your craving, we’ve got a Kraft Caramel Bits recipe that’s sure to satisfy.
Caramel Apple Dip with Kraft Caramel Bits
Enjoy a sweet and crunchy treat with this easy-to-make caramel apple dip using Kraft Caramel Bits! Perfect for snacking or as a dessert topping, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) container of cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup Kraft Caramel Bits
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh apple (such as Granny Smith or Gala)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar. Mix until smooth.
2. Stir in the Kraft Caramel Bits and vanilla extract.
3. Fold in the chopped apple until well combined.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, with additional caramel bits and chopped apples on hand if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required!)
Easy Caramel Pretzel Bites
These bite-sized pretzel treats are perfect for snacking on the go or serving at your next gathering. With a crispy pretzel base, gooey caramel coating, and crunchy toppings, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of pretzel rods
– 1 cup of melted butter
– 1/2 cup of light brown sugar
– 1/4 cup of heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– Toppings (optional): sea salt, chopped nuts, or sprinkles
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt butter and brown sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream and vanilla extract.
4. Dip each pretzel rod into the caramel mixture, coating about 1 inch of the end.
5. Place coated pretzels on prepared baking sheet. If using toppings, sprinkle immediately after coating.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until caramel is set.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Caramel-Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies
Elevate your classic chocolate chip cookies by adding a gooey caramel center to each one. This indulgent treat is sure to impress anyone with a sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Optional: sea salt for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture, then stir in chocolate chips.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Place a small spoonful of caramel sauce in the center of each cookie.
7. Fold the dough over the caramel to form a ball, and gently flatten slightly.
8. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Yield: Approximately 24 cookies
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Gooey Caramel Brownies
Moist brownie squares infused with a velvety caramel sauce will satisfy your sweet tooth. These gooey treats are perfect for parties, potlucks, or just because.
Ingredients:
– 1 and 1/2 sticks of unsalted butter (12 tablespoons), plus more for greasing the pan
– 2 cups of sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– 1 and 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup of caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Chopped nuts or sea salt for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan with butter and line with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and cocoa powder. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Melt chocolate chips in the microwave or in a double boiler. Allow to cool slightly.
5. Add melted chocolate to the sugar mixture and stir until combined.
6. Fold in flour mixture until just combined.
7. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
8. Drizzle caramel sauce over the brownie batter, spreading evenly.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs attached.
10. Allow to cool completely before cutting into squares and serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Caramel Popcorn Clusters
Transform plain popcorn into a sweet and indulgent treat with these easy-to-make caramel clusters. Perfect for movie nights or as a snack to share with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 6 cups popped popcorn
– 1 cup white chocolate chips or chopped milk chocolate
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine corn syrup, sugar, and water. Place over medium heat and stir until sugar dissolves.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract until melted.
5. Pour caramel mixture over popped popcorn and stir until coated.
6. Melt white chocolate chips or chopped milk chocolate in the microwave or in a double boiler.
7. Drop spoonfuls of the caramel-coated popcorn into the melted chocolate, forming clusters.
8. Place clusters on prepared baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Caramel Pecan Pie Bars
These Caramel Pecan Pie Bars are a twist on the classic pecan pie, but in bar form. With a gooey caramel topping and crunchy pecans, these bars are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup packed light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and salt. Add melted butter, vanilla extract, and stir until combined.
3. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
4. Sprinkle chopped pecans evenly over the crust.
5. Drizzle caramel sauce over the pecans.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Caramel-Filled Cupcakes
Moist vanilla cupcakes filled with a rich caramel center make for a sweet and indulgent treat. These cupcakes are perfect for special occasions or as a delightful surprise for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– Caramel filling (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together butter, egg, and vanilla extract.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients; mix until smooth.
5. Fill each liner 2/3 full. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before filling with caramel.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Caramel Swirl Cheesecake
Elevate your dessert game with this creamy and rich Caramel Swirl Cheesecake, featuring a velvety caramel sauce swirled throughout a dense cheesecake.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake:
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup sour cream
For the caramel sauce:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Prepare crust and press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cheesecake ingredients until smooth, then pour into prepared pan.
4. Drizzle caramel sauce over cheesecake in a zig-zag pattern.
5. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
6. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Caramel Rice Krispie Treats
Sweet Treat Alert: Caramel Rice Krispie Treats!
These gooey treats combine the classic Rice Krispie cereal with a rich caramel sauce, creating an irresistible combination that’s perfect for snacking or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
– 12 oz (340g) milk chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or saucepan, combine the corn syrup, sugar, and salt. Place over medium heat and stir until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract until melted.
4. Add the milk chocolate chips and stir until smooth.
5. Pour the caramel mixture over the Rice Krispies cereal and stir until well coated.
6. Press the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Let cool and harden for at least 30 minutes.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (plus cooling time)
Caramel-Stuffed Snickerdoodles
These Caramel-Stuffed Snickerdoodles are a twist on the classic cookie, with a gooey caramel center that adds an extra layer of flavor and texture. Perfect for snacking or as a special treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp cream of tartar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups white granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tbsp caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 3 cups chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and cream of tartar. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Roll dough into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Flatten each ball slightly.
6. Place a small dollop of caramel sauce in the center of each cookie. Fold the dough over to enclose.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Caramel Chocolate Bark
Create a delicious and easy-to-make treat by combining caramel, chocolate, and nuts. This Caramel Chocolate Bark recipe is perfect for a quick dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
3. Stir in the caramel sauce and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
5. Sprinkle the chopped nuts over the top.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until set.
7. Break into pieces and serve.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including melting time)
Caramel Pecan Thumbprint Cookies
Warm up with these gooey caramel-filled cookies, featuring crunchy pecans and a hint of sea salt. Perfect for snacking or gifting, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Sea salt for sprinkling
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, then stir in pecans.
5. Roll dough into balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches (5 cm) between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. While still warm, use a thumb or spoon to create an indentation in the center of each cookie. Fill with caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade).
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Caramel-Stuffed Pancakes
Start your day with a delightful twist on classic pancakes! These fluffy treats are packed with a gooey caramel surprise that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Fresh fruit and whipped cream for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet or griddle.
6. Place a small dollop (about 1 teaspoon) of caramel sauce in the center of the pancake.
7. Fold the pancake over the caramel, forming a triangle or square shape.
8. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to dry.
9. Flip and cook for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute.
10. Serve warm with fresh fruit and whipped cream, if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per pancake
Caramel Drizzled Banana Bread
This moist and flavorful banana bread gets a luxurious twist with a drizzle of caramel sauce, making it the perfect dessert or snack for any occasion. With its rich aroma and velvety texture, this treat is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– Caramel sauce, for drizzling
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes before transferring to a plate.
7. Drizzle with caramel sauce and sprinkle with chopped walnuts (if using).
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Caramel-Stuffed French Toast
Start your day with a decadent twist on a classic breakfast favorite. This Caramel-Stuffed French Toast recipe combines crispy, buttery bread with gooey caramel and sweet vanilla flavors.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of Challah or brioche bread
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs and vanilla extract.
2. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
4. Meanwhile, combine sugar, corn syrup, and heavy cream in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat; reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Stuff each toasted bread slice with the warm caramel mixture. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Caramel Hot Chocolate with Bits
Cozy up with this rich and creamy hot chocolate infused with the deep flavors of caramel and topped with crunchy bits for a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk or heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup marshmallow bits (mini marshmallows work too!)
– Whipped cream and additional caramel sauce for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it starts to simmer.
2. Add the cocoa powder, sugar, and salt. Whisk until smooth and hot.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the caramel sauce until fully incorporated.
4. Pour into mugs or cups.
5. Top each mug with marshmallow bits.
6. Serve immediately, or top with whipped cream and additional caramel sauce if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Caramel-Stuffed Donut Holes
Take your donut game to the next level with these bite-sized caramel-filled treats. Flaky, buttery pastry and gooey caramel come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt. Add milk, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
3. Using a piping bag or a spoon, drop small balls of dough into the hot oil (about 1/4 cup each).
4. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
5. Allow donut holes to cool slightly before filling with caramel sauce.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on frying time)
Caramel Oatmeal Cookies
These chewy cookies are packed with rolled oats, sweet caramel, and a hint of sea salt. Perfect for snacking or sharing, they’re sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon sea salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup caramel bits (such as Rolos or chopped caramel candies)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, baking soda, and sea salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
6. Stir in caramel bits.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Caramel-Stuffed Muffins
Moist and flavorful muffins filled with a gooey caramel center, perfect for breakfast or a snack on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
4. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
5. Place 1-2 tablespoons of caramel sauce in the center of each muffin.
6. Top with remaining batter, covering the caramel completely.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Caramel-Dipped Strawberries
Sweet and indulgent, caramel-dipped strawberries make a perfect treat for any occasion. Elevate this classic combination by following our simple recipe to impress your guests or satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 12 fresh strawberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon light corn syrup
– 1 teaspoon butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat the caramel sauce: Combine sugar, water, and corn syrup in a medium saucepan. Place it over medium heat and cook until the sugar dissolves.
2. Bring to a boil: Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil. Use a candy thermometer to reach 350°F (175°C).
3. Remove from heat: Once the caramel reaches the desired temperature, remove from heat and carefully whisk in butter until melted.
4. Dip strawberries: Hold each strawberry by the leaves and dip the fruit into the warm caramel sauce, coating about three-quarters of the berry. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet or a wire rack set over a piece of parchment paper.
5. Cool and serve: Let the caramel-dipped strawberries cool to room temperature before serving. Refrigerate for up to 3 hours if desired.
Cooking Time:
10-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge your sweet tooth with these 20 scrumptious recipes featuring Kraft Caramel Bits! From classic treats like caramel apple dip and gooey brownies, to creative twists like caramel-stuffed French toast and caramel-drizzled banana bread, there’s something for every sweet craving. Whether you’re a fan of cookies, cakes, or snacks, these easy-to-make recipes are sure to satisfy your desire for all things caramel. So go ahead, get creative, and treat yourself to a world of deliciousness!
