Salt River Bars are everything you crave in a dessert: sweet, salty, creamy, crunchy, and totally irresistible. With their signature layers of buttery club crackers sandwiched between rich, homemade caramel and a silky chocolate-peanut butter topping, these bars hit all the right notes with every bite. Whether you’re looking to wow your friends at a potluck or just treat yourself to something divine, making Salt River Bars guarantees smiles all around. Once you try these, there’s a good chance they’ll become your ultimate go-to treat for any occasion!

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the true joys of making Salt River Bars is how effortlessly simple the ingredients are, yet how crucial each one becomes as the layers come together. These humble pantry staples magically transform into a decadent treat with plenty of crowd appeal.

Club crackers: A buttery, flaky base that brings both structure and irresistible crunch—don’t be tempted to swap these out!
Butter, salted: Adds richness and a hint of salt that perfectly balances all the sweetness throughout the bars.
Light brown sugar, packed: Brings that signature caramel flavor and gooey texture to the caramel layers.
Graham cracker crumbs: Help thicken the caramel mixture and add a subtle molasses undertone.
Heavy cream: Makes the caramel silky, creamy, and lush.
Milk chocolate chips: The base of the chocolate layer, ensuring a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth finish.
Butterscotch chips: Adds another dimension of sweetness and a hint of nostalgia to the chocolate topping.
Creamy peanut butter: Brings the chocolate topping together with extra creaminess and nutty undertones.
Maldon sea salt for finishing: The final sprinkle of flake salt makes every bite pop with a perfect balance of flavors.

How to Make Salt River Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Begin by lining a 9 by 13 inch pan with parchment paper, making sure the edges overhang for easy removal later. Give the parchment and sides of the pan a light spritz of nonstick spray, so nothing sticks when it’s time to cut your Salt River Bars.

Step 2: Layer the Club Crackers

Arrange your first layer of club crackers tightly across the bottom of the pan—if needed, trim the crackers with a sharp knife to fit snugly. Creating an even, seamless layer will guarantee that signature structured crunch in every bite.

Step 3: Make the Caramel Layer

In a medium sized, heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt the butter, brown sugar, graham cracker crumbs, and heavy cream together over medium heat. Stir constantly until the mixture is completely combined, then bring it to a gentle boil. Keep stirring and let it bubble away for 7 minutes, watching as it transforms into a gorgeous rich caramel.

Step 4: Assemble the Layers

Quickly but carefully, pour half the hot caramel over the first cracker layer, spreading right up to the edges. Top this with a second layer of club crackers, then pour on the remaining caramel and finish with a third and final layer of crackers. This stacking is what gives Salt River Bars their unmistakable layers and satisfying textures.

Step 5: Chill and Prepare the Chocolate Topping

Pop the pan in the fridge while you work on the chocolate topping. Combine the milk chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, and creamy peanut butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30- to 45-second bursts, stirring each time, then switch to 15-second intervals until you have a smooth, glossy mixture.

Step 6: Finish and Chill

Pour your chocolate mixture evenly over the last cracker layer, gently guiding it right to the edges with a spatula. Sprinkle Maldon sea salt generously over the top—this finishing touch is what takes Salt River Bars into pure dessert bliss. Chill in the fridge for at least 1–2 hours before using your parchment edges to lift the bars out for neat slicing.

How to Serve Salt River Bars

Garnishes

A classic flourish is a final scatter of Maldon sea salt on top, but you can also get creative with toasted nuts, extra chocolate drizzle, or even a dusting of edible gold flakes if you’re feeling fancy. Each garnish not only adds visual appeal, but a little extra flavor and texture too.

Side Dishes

For a fun dessert spread, serve Salt River Bars alongside bowls of fresh berries, vanilla bean ice cream, or even a hot mug of coffee or cocoa. Their intense flavors pair beautifully with simple, creamy, or tart accompaniments.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the bars into bite-sized squares for a party tray, wrapping a few in parchment and baker’s twine as a thoughtful gift, or stacking them high on your favorite cake stand for an impressive centerpiece. Salt River Bars look as good as they taste when you play up their beautiful, layered structure.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Salt River Bars keep their flavor and structure remarkably well. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, where they’ll stay fresh for up to five days. You’ll love how the layers remain distinct and the chocolate stays snappy.

Freezing

If you want to make a batch ahead or save some for later, Salt River Bars freeze like a dream. Slice the bars, place them in a single layer with parchment paper between layers, and freeze in an airtight container for up to two months. Let them thaw in the fridge or at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

If you prefer your Salt River Bars a little softer, let them sit at room temperature for about 10–15 minutes after removing from the fridge. For a just-baked feeling, microwave individual bars for 5–8 seconds—just enough to slightly warm the chocolate and caramel without melting.

FAQs

Do I have to use club crackers, or can I substitute something else?

Club crackers are ideal because of their buttery, salty flavor and crisp texture, but in a pinch, you could try butter crackers or even saltines. Just be aware the bars may have a slightly different taste and crunch.

Can I make Salt River Bars gluten-free?

Absolutely! There are gluten-free club crackers and graham crackers on the market. Swap those in, and you’re good to go—just double-check all your other ingredients for hidden gluten.

What’s the secret to getting super clean layers?

A sharp knife and the patience to let your Salt River Bars chill completely are key! Run your knife under hot water between slices, and use the parchment paper “handles” to lift the whole slab out before cutting. Clean slices make for the prettiest presentation.

Can I double or halve this recipe?

Yes! You can easily double the recipe using a larger baking pan, or halve it for a small gathering using an 8×8 inch pan. The layering and chilling steps stay the same; just adjust your ingredient quantities accordingly.

How far ahead can I make Salt River Bars for a party?

You can make Salt River Bars up to three days in advance, keeping them tightly wrapped in the fridge. In fact, letting them chill overnight can make the flavors meld even more, so they’re an ideal dessert to prep ahead.

Final Thoughts

When you’re in the mood for something downright delightful and a little special, Salt River Bars are pure magic. They’re simple enough to make on a weekday, impressive enough for celebrations, and always disappear quicker than you expect. Treat yourself and your loved ones to a batch—you may just discover your new favorite dessert!