Last Hurrah Bars

Dear readers, it is with a heavy heart that I say, starting January 3rd, I will no longer eat anything.  Nothing.  Ever again.

Okay, that isn't true, but December was a little, let's say, out of control.  I am therefore resolving to embrace a bit more moderation when it comes to the baked goods.  I don't really want to bake less, so I guess I'll have to share more and dance more.  I can live with this.  I could also try to incorporate lighter desserts into the rotation.  We'll see about that...

Although generally not good for the psyche or in the spirit of moderation, I confess that I often embrace the "last supper" mentality.  Before entering a renewed commitment to (mostly) healthy eating, I seek out something obscenely indulgent.  Pizza or cheesecake, loaded fries or chocolate cake, I'm equal opportunity.

This week, I opted for a kitchen-sink type of creation.  Something salty and sweet.  Something creamy and crunchy.  Something to use up the holiday baking bits that didn't find their way into another concoction.  Dear readers, I give you the Last Hurrah Bar:

1 14-oz can sweetened condensed milk
1/2 tsp sea salt
1 stick butter, melted
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
2 T sugar
1 bag butterscotch chips
1 bag milk chocolate chips
1 cup salted party nuts, chopped

Combine condensed milk and salt in a small saucepan.  Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until it becomes a golden caramel color.  Set aside to cool. 

From this...

...to this.

Meanwhile, combine butter, sugar, and graham crack crumbs; press into a 13x9 pan.  Bake at 350 degrees for 10 minutes. 

Top with caramel.  Sprinkle chips and nuts evenly over caramel, pressing firmly to compact.  Return to oven and bake an additional 15 minutes.  Allow to cool completely before cutting.

One really shouldn't eat more than a small square at a time.  Unless, of course, it's a last supper sort of situation.  If that's the case, cut 'em big and eat several.  I'm going to need a really long barre every day for the next month to make up for them.  I wonder if my ballet teacher makes house calls?

It's a new year everyone.  Let's live well and laugh often.  Let's eat plenty and exercise lots.  Oh, and let's always...

Keep it sweet. Pin It