Description
Caramelitas are irresistible layered dessert bars featuring a chewy oat and brown sugar base, a luscious homemade caramel center, and a generous topping of chocolate chips, all baked to golden perfection. These bars combine crunchy oats, sweet caramel, and rich chocolate into one delightfully indulgent treat that’s perfect for sharing or enjoying as a sweet snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Oat Base and Topping
- 1 cup rolled oats
- ¾ cup melted butter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
Caramel Layer
- 1 bag soft caramels (around 11 oz)
- ½ cup heavy cream
Topping
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Pan: Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan thoroughly. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready when you assemble the bars.
- Make the Caramel: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the soft caramels and heavy cream. Stir continuously until the caramels fully melt and the mixture becomes smooth. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Make the Oat Mixture: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, all-purpose flour, rolled oats, and baking soda. Stir until all ingredients are evenly mixed into a cohesive dough.
- Press the Base: Take half of the oat mixture and firmly press it into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly to form the crust layer.
- Bake the Crust: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake the crust for 10 minutes. Once baked, remove it carefully from the oven.
- Add Chocolate and Caramel Layers: Evenly sprinkle the chocolate chips over the baked crust. Then, pour the smooth, warm caramel mixture carefully over the chocolate chips.
- Add the Top Layer: Spread the remaining oat mixture over the caramel layer, gently pressing it into place to cover the caramel without mixing layers.
- Bake the Bars: Return the baking pan to the oven and bake for 20 minutes more, or until the top layer turns golden brown and set.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan. Once cool, cut into 9 to 12 squares before serving.
Notes
- Make sure to stir the caramel mixture continuously to avoid burning.
- Press the oat layers firmly into the pan for better structure and to prevent crumbling.
- You can substitute chocolate chips with chunks or white chocolate for variety.
- Ensure the bars are completely cooled before cutting to keep clean edges.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or refrigerated for longer freshness.
