Carmelitas

Carmelitas are a delightful treat that perfectly combines the rich flavors of caramel, chocolate, and oats. These layered bars feature a chewy oat crust, a gooey caramel center, and a generous sprinkle of chocolate chips, creating a decadent dessert that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a cozy snack at home, these bars are as easy to make as they are delicious!

Carmelitas

Ingredients

¾ cup Butter, melted

1 cup Old Fashioned Oats (not quick cooking)

1 cup All Purpose Flour

¾ cup Light Brown Sugar

1 tsp Baking Powder

12 ounces Caramels

1 cup Chocolate Chips

½ cup Heavy Cream or Sweetened Condensed Milk

Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Line an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing the edges to hang over the sides for easy removal later.

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the caramels and heavy cream. Stir continuously until melted and well blended.

Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2:

In a large bowl, mix the oats, flour, melted butter, brown sugar, and baking powder until well combined.

Press half of this mixture into the prepared baking pan to form an even layer.

Bake for 10 minutes.

Take the pan out of the oven and immediately sprinkle the chocolate chips on top.

Step 3:

Pour the caramel mixture over the chocolate chips, spreading it out evenly.

Crumble the remaining oat mixture over the caramel layer.

Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 15 to 18 minutes.

Once baked, allow to cool completely before removing from the pan and slicing.

Enjoy!

These Carmelitas are a delicious blend of chocolate and caramel, perfect for any sweet treat lover!

Notes:

Caramel Options: If you can’t find traditional caramels, you can use store-bought caramel sauce instead. Just reduce the baking time slightly to ensure it doesn’t overcook.

Oat Type: Make sure to use old-fashioned oats for the best texture. Quick oats can make the bars too mushy.

Mixing Tips: When mixing the oat mixture, be careful not to overmix; you want to keep a crumbly texture for the topping.

Serving Size: These bars can be quite rich, so consider cutting them into smaller squares for serving.

Storage: Store leftover Carmelitas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Add-Ins: Feel free to customize the recipe by adding nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for extra crunch, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a sweet-salty contrast.

Freezing: These bars freeze well! Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 16 bars | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can use whole wheat flour for a healthier option, but it may change the texture slightly.

Just ensure to measure it properly.

What if I don’t have parchment paper?

If you don’t have parchment paper, you can grease the baking pan well with butter or cooking spray to help prevent sticking.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! Carmelitas can be made a day or two in advance. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge.

How do I prevent the caramel from hardening too much?

To keep the caramel soft, ensure you bake the bars just until golden and cool them at room temperature.

If it does harden, you can warm them slightly in the microwave before serving.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?

Yes! Feel free to add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts, or even some shredded coconut for added texture and flavor.

Just keep the overall mix balanced to maintain the bar structure.

What equipment do I need to make Carmelitas?

You’ll need a saucepan for melting the caramel, mixing bowls for combining the ingredients, a whisk or spoon for mixing, and an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking pan.

How can I ensure even baking?

Make sure to press the oat mixture firmly into the pan for an even layer and rotate the pan halfway through baking to promote uniform cooking.

What should I do if my caramel mixture is too thick?

If the caramel is too thick, you can add a bit more heavy cream or gently reheat it to loosen it up, making it easier to spread.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free to make the recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

How long do I need to let them cool?

Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature before slicing.

This helps them set properly and makes them easier to cut into neat squares.

This may take about 1-2 hours.