Squirrels have always captivated our hearts with their playful antics and adorable fluffy tails. Inspired by these delightful creatures, we’ve created the perfect treat to honor them – Chewy Nutty Squirrel Bars. Packed with crunchy nuts and sweet condensed milk, these bars are not only incredibly delicious but also a quick and satisfying option for breakfast or a snack.
A Taste That Leaves You Wanting More Once you try one bite of these incredible bars, you’ll be hooked. The combination of nuttiness from the crunchy nuts and the sweetness from the condensed milk creates a flavor that is simply irresistible. Each bar is a delightful blend of textures and flavors that will have you coming back for more.
Simple and Convenient Making Chewy Nutty Squirrel Bars is a breeze. The recipe is straightforward, and the ingredients are easy to find. Whip up a batch of these bars in no time and keep them in the fridge for up to a week. This way, you’ll always have a delectable treat on hand whenever you desire.
A Special Moment of Inspiration The idea for these bars came to me during a visit to my grandparents’ countryside home. As I spent time in their backyard, I couldn’t help but be captivated by a family of squirrels living there. Their playful nature and adorable presence inspired me to create something special for them. That’s when my grandmother suggested these marvelous bars, and it was a delightful experience to see the squirrels enjoy the fruits of our labor.
Ingredients:
- ⅓ cup cocoa powder
- 1¼ cups flour
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 4 tablespoons heavy cream
- ½ cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or a mix)
- 1 cup caramel or butterscotch baking chips
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 sticks unsalted butter, at room temperature (reserve 2 tablespoons)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a mixing bowl, beat 1¾ sticks of butter and the powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Gradually mix in the cocoa powder and flour until well combined.
- Press the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish and bake for 15 minutes.
- While the crust bakes, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter with the sweetened condensed milk in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until the mixture thickens, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour this luscious mixture over the baked crust and return to the oven for an additional 8-10 minutes.
- Meanwhile, toast the nuts lightly, then chop them coarsely. Set them aside.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the caramel chips with the heavy cream, stirring until smooth. Fold in the toasted nuts and salt.
- Spread the nutty caramel layer over the bars and allow them to cool completely before slicing.
These Chewy Nutty Squirrel Bars are not just a treat for humans; they are also a delightful tribute to the squirrels and the natural world around us. As you savor each bite, take a moment to appreciate the beauty, joy, and wonder that nature brings to our lives. Happy baking!
Bonus Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Brussels Sprouts
Are you looking for a delicious and easy appetizer that will impress your guests? Look no further than these Bacon Wrapped Brussels Sprouts! With just a few simple ingredients and the help of an air fryer, you can create a mouthwatering treat that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want to indulge in a tasty snack, these bacon-wrapped sprouts are a winner.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, salt, and pepper. This flavorful mixture will be the secret to the amazing taste of your bacon-wrapped Brussels sprouts.
- Add 1 & 1/2 pounds of Brussels sprouts to the bowl. Make sure to wash them thoroughly and halve them if needed. Toss the sprouts in the mixture to ensure they are evenly coated.
- Take each Brussels sprout and wrap it with half a piece of bacon. To keep everything in place, secure the bacon with a toothpick.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) to ensure even cooking.
- Place the bacon-wrapped Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure they have enough space to cook evenly without touching each other too closely.
- Cook the sprouts in the air fryer for 15 minutes. The bacon will turn crispy and the Brussels sprouts will become tender.
- Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the bacon-wrapped Brussels sprouts from the air fryer. Let them cool slightly before serving.
- These Bacon Wrapped Brussels sprouts can be served as an appetizer or a side dish. They are sure to be a hit at any gathering.
So, why wait? Get your air fryer ready and try this delicious recipe today. Your taste buds will thank you!
