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–+ servings

Carmelitas (Oatmeal Caramel Bars)

Caramelitas are a decadent dessert combining a buttery oat crust with layers of gooey caramel and chocolate. This delightful treat, featuring a crumbly oat mixture, rich chocolate chips, and luscious caramel, is perfect for any occasion and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Bars, Comfort Food, Dessert, Family-Friendly
Cuisine American
Servings 24 Squares
Calories 280 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup 2 sticks unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups packed brown sugar
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
  • 1 cup caramel sauce store-bought or homemade
  • 1/4 cup chopped nuts optional, such as pecans or walnuts

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
  • Prepare the Oat Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, baking soda, salt, and vanilla extract. Mix until the mixture is crumbly and well blended.
  • Form the Crust: Press half of the oat mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form a crust. Use the back of a spoon or a spatula to ensure it's even and compact.
  • Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes until lightly golden.
  • Layer the Filling: Remove the crust from the oven and sprinkle the chocolate chips and chopped nuts (if using) evenly over the top. Pour the caramel sauce over the chocolate chips and nuts, spreading it gently to cover.
  • Top with Remaining Oat Mixture: Crumble the remaining oat mixture over the top as evenly as possible.
  • Bake Again: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the caramel is bubbling.
  • Cool Completely: Allow the caramelitas to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. This helps them set properly and makes them easier to slice.

Notes

For a gluten-free version, use certified gluten-free oats and a gluten-free flour blend. To add extra flavor, consider adding cinnamon or nutmeg to the oat mixture.

Nutrition

Calories: 280kcal
Keyword Caramel, Chocolate, Easy, Gooey, Sweet
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