Description

Caramelitas are irresistible dessert bars that combine rich caramel, gooey chocolate, and crunchy oats into a delightful treat. Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients, these bars are perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or satisfying your sweet cravings. Indulge in the delicious layers of caramel and chocolate with every bite!

Ingredients

1 cup rolled oats

¾ cup melted butter

1 cup all-purpose flour

¾ cup brown sugar

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 bag of soft caramels (around 11 oz)

1 cup chocolate chips

½ cup heavy cream

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Instructions

Prepare the Baking Pan: Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Make the Caramel: In a small saucepan, combine the soft caramels and heavy cream. Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously until smooth and the caramel has melted. Set aside.
Make the Oat Mixture: In a separate bowl, mix together the melted butter, brown sugar, flour, rolled oats, and baking soda until well combined.
Press the Base: Press half of the oat mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer.
Bake the Crust: Bake the crust for 10 minutes in the preheated oven, then remove it from the oven. Sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the baked crust and pour the caramel mixture over the chocolate chips.
Add the Top Layer: Spread the remaining oat mixture over the caramel layer, pressing it gently into place.
Bake the Bars: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Cool and Serve: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into squares and serving.

Notes

Add Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts can be added to the oat mixture for an extra crunch.

Different Chocolate: Swap regular chocolate chips for dark chocolate or white chocolate for a unique flavor.

Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free option.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dessert, Bars
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American