A triple-layer treasure stacked with peanut butter, caramel, and fudge.

Every bite of these Peanut Butter Gold Rush Bars feels like striking dessert gold. They start with a soft graham-cracker and peanut-butter base, then get layered with buttery caramel and a rich fudge topping that melts just enough to hold a sprinkle of peanut butter cups. They’re made for those moments when you want something that feels a little extra special without any extra effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Layers that taste like a homemade candy bar- peanut butter, caramel, and fudge in perfect balance.

• Semi-homemade simplicity: no candy thermometer, no complicated steps, just melt, mix, and chill.

• The texture contrast: a soft, buttery base, gooey caramel center, and smooth chocolate top.

• Customizable toppings- from chopped peanut butter cups to crushed peanuts or a drizzle of melted peanut butter “gold.”

• Ideal for sharing (or not). They slice beautifully and store well for days in the fridge.

Ingredient Notes

• Graham cracker crumbs: The foundation of the crust- gives a buttery, crunchy texture that balances all the richness above.
• Peanut butter: Creamy works best for binding the crust and adding that signature salty-sweet flavor.
• Butter: Melted butter brings everything together and adds richness to both the crust and fudge layers.
• Powdered sugar & milk: Slight sweetness and moisture help the crust hold its shape while staying soft.
• Caramels & cream: Use classic soft caramels (like Kraft)- the cream keeps the layer silky and pourable.
• Chocolate chips: Semi-sweet gives balance; too dark can overpower the peanut butter.
• Sweetened condensed milk: The secret to smooth, easy fudge without heavy cooking.
• Mini peanut butter cups: The crowning jewels- a little crunch, a lot of fun, and instant candy-bar vibes.

Before You Bake

Do I need to chill between layers?
Yes. Chill the caramel layer for 10 to 15 minutes before adding the fudge. It helps keep the layers defined and prevents mixing.

Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely. They hold up beautifully in the fridge for several days, which makes them great for parties or gifting.

What size pan should I use?
A 9×9-inch pan is ideal. It gives the perfect thickness for the layers while keeping the bars easy to slice.

Peanut Butter Gold Rush Bars

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• Author: Taryn Camp

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Crust Layer:

• 1 1⁄2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1⁄2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1⁄2 cup melted butter
• 1⁄4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tbsp milk

Caramel Layer:

• 25 soft caramels (like Kraft)
• 2 1/2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk

Fudge Layer:

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1⁄2 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1⁄4 teaspoon salt

Toppings:

• 1⁄2 cup chopped mini peanut butter cups
• Optional: drizzle of melted peanut butter, crushed peanuts, or flaky salt for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, peanut butter, melted butter, powdered sugar, and milk until fully combined and moist.
2. Press the mixture firmly into a parchment-lined 9×9-inch pan. Chill while you prepare the caramel.
3. Melt caramels and heavy cream in a pot over medium low heat or in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second bursts, stirring until smooth.
4. Pour over the crust, spread evenly, and chill for 10–15 minutes.
5. In another bowl, melt the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, butter, and salt in 15 second bursts, stirring until smooth. This can seize very easily, so be sure to stir it very well after each interval.
6. Spread the fudge over the caramel layer.
7. While the fudge is still soft, sprinkle chopped mini peanut butter cups on top and press them lightly to stick. Add optional toppings if desired.
8. Refrigerate bars for 3–4 hours, or until fully set.
9. Lift out using parchment, slice into squares, and wipe the knife between cuts for clean edges.
10. Store bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Serve chilled or let sit at room temp for 5–10 minutes for a softer bar.

FAQ

How long should the bars chill before slicing?
Plan for at least 3 to 4 hours in the fridge. This allows the fudge and caramel layers to set completely for clean cuts.

Can I freeze these bars?
Yes. Slice them first, then layer with parchment in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of melting caramels?
You can, but the texture will be softer and less chewy. If using sauce, reduce it slightly on the stove until thickened.

What’s the best way to cut them neatly?
Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts. For perfect edges, warm the knife slightly before each slice.

How should I store them?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days, or at room temperature for a softer bite.

Sprinkle of Fun

Host a “Gold Rush Movie Night.” Watch something adventurous like The Goonies or National Treasure and serve the bars as “gold bars from the vault.” Wrap each bar piece in a little strip of gold foil for fun and let everyone “cash in” their treasure before the movie starts.