These bars combine the irresistible flavors of buttery toffee and rich chocolate with the crunch of graham crackers and optional nuts. They’re incredibly simple to prepare, require minimal ingredients, and don’t need any special baking skills. Perfect for feeding a crowd, gifting during the holidays, or storing for sweet cravings throughout the week.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
graham crackers unsalted butter brown sugar semi-sweet chocolate chips chopped pecans or walnuts (optional) vanilla extract salt
Directions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil and lightly grease it.
Arrange the graham crackers in a single layer across the bottom of the prepared baking sheet, breaking them as needed to fill all gaps.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter and brown sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture comes to a boil. Let it boil for 2–3 minutes, then remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
Carefully pour the hot toffee mixture over the graham crackers, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Bake in the preheated oven for 7–10 minutes, until the toffee is bubbly.
Remove the pan from the oven and immediately sprinkle the chocolate chips over the hot toffee layer. Let them sit for a couple of minutes to melt, then spread the melted chocolate evenly over the surface.
Sprinkle chopped nuts on top, if using.
Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature, or place them in the refrigerator to speed up the process.
Once set, break or cut into squares or bars.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes approximately 24 bars. Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 10 minutes Cooling time: 1 hour Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Variations
Nut-free: Skip the nuts entirely for a school-friendly or allergy-conscious version.
Different chocolate: Use white chocolate, milk chocolate, or dark chocolate chips for different flavor profiles.
Toppings: Add shredded coconut, crushed pretzels, or sprinkles on top for extra texture and flair.
Salted toffee: Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top for a sweet-and-salty twist.
Gluten-free: Use gluten-free graham crackers to make the recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Storage/Reheating
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 2 months. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
No reheating is necessary. If frozen, let the bars thaw at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving.
FAQs
How do I keep the toffee layer from becoming grainy?
Make sure the sugar is fully dissolved in the butter mixture before pouring it over the graham crackers. Stir constantly and boil just long enough to reach a smooth texture.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Butter is recommended for the best flavor and texture, but margarine can be used if necessary. Just be aware that the flavor might be slightly different.
What kind of brown sugar should I use?
Light brown sugar works best, but dark brown sugar can be used for a deeper, molasses-like flavor.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, these bars are perfect for making ahead and storing in the fridge or freezer until needed.
Why did my toffee separate?
Toffee can separate if the heat is too high or if it’s overcooked. Be sure to stir constantly and boil gently for just 2–3 minutes.
How do I cut the bars neatly?
Let the bars cool completely and use a sharp knife. Chilling them in the refrigerator first can help achieve cleaner cuts.
Can I skip the chocolate layer?
Yes, the chocolate is optional. The bars will still be delicious with just the toffee and graham cracker base.
Do I need to grease the parchment or foil?
Yes, lightly greasing the lining will help prevent the toffee from sticking, making cleanup and removal easier.
Can I use other types of crackers?
Yes, saltine crackers or digestive biscuits can be used as a substitute for graham crackers for a slightly different taste and texture.
How long do the bars need to cool before cutting?
Let them cool for at least 1 hour, or until the chocolate is fully set. You can refrigerate them to speed up the process.
Conclusion
Graham Cracker Toffee Bars are a deliciously simple treat that brings together toffee, chocolate, and crunch in one addictive bite. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, these bars are sure to become a favorite for holiday trays, party platters, or everyday indulgence. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, they’re a must-try dessert you’ll turn to again and again.
Graham Cracker Toffee Bars are a quick and easy dessert featuring layers of crisp graham crackers, buttery toffee, melted chocolate, and optional nuts. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or sweet cravings.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:10 minutes
Total Time:1 hour 20 minutes
Yield:24 bars
Category:Dessert
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
14–16 graham crackers (enough to cover a baking sheet)
1 cup unsalted butter
1 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil and lightly grease it.
Arrange graham crackers in a single layer on the prepared sheet, breaking as needed to cover the surface.
In a saucepan, melt butter and brown sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly. Bring to a boil and let it boil for 2–3 minutes.
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
Pour the toffee mixture evenly over the graham crackers and spread with a spatula.
Bake for 7–10 minutes, until the toffee is bubbling.
Remove from oven and sprinkle chocolate chips over the hot toffee. Let sit for 2 minutes, then spread melted chocolate evenly.
Sprinkle chopped nuts over the chocolate, if using.
Allow bars to cool completely at room temperature or refrigerate to speed up cooling.
Once set, break or cut into bars or squares.
Notes
Use gluten-free graham crackers for a gluten-free version.Let bars chill in the fridge before cutting for cleaner edges.Toffee may separate if overcooked—boil gently and stir constantly.Store with parchment between layers to prevent sticking.Optional toppings: coconut, crushed pretzels, sprinkles, or flaky sea salt.
