Top 30 Salt River Bars Recipe : Irresistible Dessert

Some desserts walk the line between sweet and salty so perfectly, you’re hooked from the first bite. That’s exactly what happens with these Salt River Bars — a layered confection that’s rich, crunchy, gooey, and topped with a hint of flaky sea salt. Originally popularized by small bakeries and food blogs, these bars have since developed a cult following online — and for good reason.

With buttery Club crackers forming the base and layers of homemade caramel and chocolate-butterscotch-peanut butter topping, Salt River Bars are as indulgent as they are easy to make. Whether you’re prepping for a potluck, a party, or just your own dessert fix, this recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again.

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🕒 Prep & Chill Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

🍽️ Servings

Approximately 30 bars

🛒 Ingredients

• 1 box Club crackers (about 90 crackers total)
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
• ¾ cup butterscotch chips
• ¾ cup creamy peanut butter
• Flaky sea salt (such as Maldon), for topping

🧑‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Pan
Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or foil, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Arrange a single layer of Club crackers to cover the bottom of the dish.

Step 2: Make the Caramel Layer
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine butter, brown sugar, graham cracker crumbs, and heavy cream. Stir until melted and smooth. Bring to a gentle boil and cook for 5 minutes, stirring constantly.

Step 3: Layer It Up
Pour half the caramel mixture over the crackers and spread evenly. Add another layer of crackers on top. Pour remaining caramel over this second layer, spread, then top with a final layer of crackers.

Step 4: Make the Topping
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, and peanut butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until melted and smooth.

Step 5: Final Layer and Chill
Pour the chocolate mixture over the final cracker layer and spread evenly. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.

Step 6: Slice and Serve
Once firm, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment. Cut into squares or bars and serve chilled or at room temperature.

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🌟 Why You’ll Love These Salt River Bars

• Perfect balance of sweet and salty
• No baking required — just a stovetop caramel and a quick chill
• Easy to make in large batches
• Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing
• Customizable with different toppings or mix-ins

🔁 Variations & Tips

Swap the base – Try Ritz crackers or pretzel crisps for different crunch and saltiness
Use dark chocolate – For a deeper, more intense flavor
Nut-free option – Use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter
Add texture – Sprinkle chopped peanuts or crushed pretzels over the top before chilling
Cut clean slices – Use a hot knife (run under hot water and wiped dry) for sharp, clean cuts

❄️ Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Store – Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week
Freeze – Wrap individually and freeze for up to 2 months
Make ahead – These bars are perfect to make the night before a party

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❓ FAQ – Salt River Bars Recipe

Can I use store-bought caramel instead?
You can, but the homemade caramel gives a thicker, richer texture and flavor.

Are they gluten-free?
Not with Club crackers, but you can substitute with gluten-free buttery crackers and graham crumbs.

Do they need to be refrigerated?
Yes, to keep the chocolate layer set and prevent melting.

Why are they called Salt River Bars?
The origin of the name is a bit of a mystery, but some believe it references the Salt River in Arizona, tying in the dessert’s salty topping and layered nature.

Can I make a smaller batch?
Absolutely — halve the ingredients and use an 8×8-inch dish.

🥄 Nutrition Information (Per Bar – Approximate)

Calories: 210 kcal
Carbohydrates: 24 g
Fat: 12 g
Saturated Fat: 5 g
Protein: 3 g
Sugar: 16 g
Sodium: 120 mg

Note: Values may vary depending on ingredients used.

📚 More Bar Desserts You’ll Love

Millionaire’s Shortbread Bars – Handle the Heat
Peanut Butter Chocolate Rice Krispie Bars – Lovely Little Kitchen
No-Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Bars – 12 Tomatoes
Layered Salted Caramel Bars – Sally’s Baking Addiction

💬 Have You Tried These?

If you made these Salt River Bars, we’d love to hear from you! Snap a photo, tag it #SaltRiverSweets, and let us know how you customized them for your family or party.

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