Knock You Naked Bars – The Ultimate Chocolate-Peanut Treat

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Rich, gooey, and absolutely unforgettable — these Knock You Naked Bars live up to their bold name in every bite. A decadent mashup of melted chocolate, creamy caramel, crunchy peanuts, and buttery cookie crumbles, this dessert is the kind of indulgence that wins bake-offs, disappears fast at parties, and becomes the most-requested recipe among friends and family. Just one square can deliver that dreamy balance of salty, sweet, chewy, and crunchy.

These bars are a chocolate lover’s dream and a peanut fanatic’s fantasy. They hold their shape beautifully while being incredibly soft and chewy inside, with textures from roasted peanuts and melty chocolate chips that add both flavor and fun. Whether you need a potluck winner, a treat-yourself moment, or just want to fill your kitchen with the smell of warm caramel and chocolate, Knock You Naked Bars hit the spot every time.

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Ingredients for Knock You Naked Bars

• 1 box German chocolate cake mix (or chocolate fudge cake mix)
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• 1/3 cup evaporated milk (divided)
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup chopped roasted peanuts (or your favorite nut mix)
• 1 bag (11 oz) caramels, unwrapped
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (optional, for sprinkling on top)
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans or almonds (optional for topping)
• Cooking spray or parchment paper (for lining the pan)

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Step 1: Prepare the Base

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray. In a large mixing bowl, combine the German chocolate cake mix, melted butter, and 1/4 cup of evaporated milk. Mix until a thick dough forms — it will be slightly sticky, like brownie batter. Press half of this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 8–10 minutes, just until the crust is slightly set but not fully baked.

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Step 2: Melt the Caramel

While the crust is baking, place the unwrapped caramels and the remaining 1/3 cup evaporated milk in a saucepan over low heat. Stir constantly until the caramels are completely melted and the mixture is silky smooth. This will take about 5–7 minutes. Don’t rush it — keep the heat low to avoid scorching the caramel.

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Step 3: Layer the Goodness

Remove the crust from the oven (it may look underbaked — that’s perfect). Pour the warm caramel evenly over the baked layer. Next, sprinkle the chocolate chips and chopped peanuts generously over the caramel layer. If you’re using sea salt, sprinkle a tiny pinch on top of the caramel to enhance the flavors.

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Step 4: Add the Top Layer

Take the remaining dough and gently flatten it between your palms or press it between two sheets of wax paper. Lay it across the top in patches — it won’t cover the entire surface, and that’s totally fine. The caramel and chocolate will peek through while baking, giving it that signature gooey look.

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Step 5: Final Bake

Pop the pan back in the oven and bake for another 18–20 minutes, or until the top is set and the edges start to pull away from the pan. The caramel will be bubbling slightly — that’s your sign it’s done.

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Step 6: Cool and Slice

Let the bars cool in the pan for at least 2 hours (or refrigerate for 1 hour) before cutting into squares. This helps everything set properly so you get perfect, clean slices. Store them chilled for a firmer texture or at room temp for maximum gooeyness.

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Storage Instructions

To keep your Knock You Naked Bars tasting as incredible as day one, proper storage is key:

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Refrigerator: For a firmer texture, especially in warmer climates, refrigerate the bars. They’ll stay fresh for up to 1 week. Let them sit out for a few minutes before serving to soften slightly.
• Freezer: Wrap individual bars in parchment paper and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll last up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or for 30 minutes at room temp before enjoying.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per bar (based on 16 servings):

• Calories: 320
• Total Fat: 17g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 39g
• Sugars: 28g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 190mg

Note: These values may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different cake mix flavor?

Yes! While German chocolate is classic, devil’s food or fudge cake mix works great too. Just avoid overly moist cake mixes.

2. What can I use instead of caramels?

You can use store-bought caramel sauce, but make sure it’s thick and made for baking, or try melting caramel bits for a faster melt.

3. Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely — just use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix and double-check that your other ingredients (like caramels and chocolate chips) are certified GF.

4. Are these bars suitable for nut allergies?

No, but you can omit the peanuts and replace them with pretzel pieces or shredded coconut for crunch without the nuts.

5. Why are they called “Knock You Naked” Bars?

The name is just playful — meant to hint at how wildly delicious and irresistible these bars are. Don’t worry, clothes stay on!

6. Can I make these ahead of time for an event?

Yes! These are perfect for prepping a day or two in advance. Just store them in the fridge and bring to room temp before serving.

7. How do I cut them neatly without the caramel sticking?

Use a sharp knife and run it under hot water between slices. You can also chill the bars first for cleaner cuts.

8. What’s the best way to reheat a bar?

If you want it warm and melty, microwave a bar for 10–15 seconds. It’ll taste like it just came out of the oven.

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