Nut-Free Caramel Squares

Indulge in the gooey decadence of Nut-Free Caramel Squares—an irresistible treat that’s both allergen-friendly and packed with homemade charm. Featuring a buttery, golden crust and a silky layer of caramel made from sweetened condensed milk, honey, and brown sugar, these squares are crafted without nuts, making them perfect for those with nut allergies or sensitivities. With just 15 minutes of prep time, this easy dessert combines simple pantry staples like all-purpose flour, unsalted butter, and vanilla extract to create a melt-in-your-mouth flavor experience. Ideal for parties, dessert tables, or an indulgent snack, these caramel squares are refrigerator-friendly, keeping fresh for up to a week. Effortlessly delicious and beautifully balanced, Nut-Free Caramel Squares will quickly become your go-to sweet treat for any occasion!

Nutriscore Rating: 38/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:45 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 16

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 0.5 teaspoon salt

Directions

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x9 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to allow for easy removal of the caramel squares.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1/2 cup of the unsalted butter and 1/2 cup of the granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 3

Gradually add the flour and salt to the butter and sugar mixture, mixing until a crumbly dough forms.

Step 4

Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Prick the dough all over with a fork to prevent bubbling.

Step 5

Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until it is light golden brown. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.

Step 6

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the remaining 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, the remaining 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, brown sugar, sweetened condensed milk, and honey.

Step 7

Stir the mixture continuously until everything has melted and the mixture is smooth.

Step 8

Increase the heat slightly and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Continue stirring constantly and cook for about 6-8 minutes, or until the mixture thickens and turns a deeper golden color.

Step 9

Remove the caramel from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 10

Pour the caramel over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

Step 11

Let the caramel squares sit at room temperature for about 1 hour before refrigerating to set completely for another 30 minutes.

Step 12

Once set, lift the parchment to remove the caramel from the pan and cut into 16 squares.

Step 13

Serve the squares as a sweet treat, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1143.1 grams (1143.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	4417

Total Fat 132.90g	170%
Saturated Fat 78.20g	391%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.30g
Cholesterol 383mg	128%
Sodium 1747mg	76%
Total Carbohydrate 776.30g	282%
Dietary Fiber 6.50g	23%
Total Sugars 592.00g
Protein 57.20g	114%

Vitamin D 32IU	159%
Calcium 1307mg	101%
Iron 13mg	73%
Potassium 1978mg	42%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 26.4%

Protein: 5.1%

Carbs: 68.5%