Easy Caramelitas Recipe

If you love gooey, buttery desserts with layers of chocolate, oats, and sweet caramel, then this Easy Caramelitas Recipe is about to become your new favorite. These irresistible bars have a soft oatmeal cookie base, melty chocolate chips, and a thick ribbon of caramel running through the center. They’re simple to make, perfect for sharing, and guaranteed to disappear fast at any gathering.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Super Simple – Uses pantry staples and just a few steps.
Gooey & Buttery – Every bite is rich, soft, and full of flavor.
Crowd-Pleasing – Perfect for potlucks, bake sales, or dessert trays.
Customizable – Add nuts, sea salt, or swap chocolate chips for your favorite mix-ins.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Crust & Topping:
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• ¾ cup packed brown sugar
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling:
• 1 bag (11 oz) caramel bits or 35 soft caramel candies (unwrapped)
• ¼ cup heavy cream
• ¾ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Tools You’ll Need
• 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking dish
• Parchment paper or foil
• Mixing bowls
• Small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl
• Spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a square baking pan with parchment paper or foil, leaving an overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease.

Step 2: Make the Oat Crust
In a medium bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt.
Stir in melted butter until mixture is crumbly and evenly moistened.
Press half of the oat mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
Bake for 10 minutes until lightly golden.

Step 3: Melt the Caramel
In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, combine caramels and heavy cream.
Heat over low heat, stirring often, until completely smooth and melted. Set aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Remove crust from the oven.
Sprinkle chocolate chips evenly over the crust.
Pour the melted caramel over the chocolate chips.
Sprinkle with nuts, if using.
Crumble the remaining oat mixture on top, pressing lightly.

Step 5: Bake Again
Return to the oven and bake for another 15–18 minutes, or until the top is golden and the edges are bubbling.

Step 6: Cool and Slice
Let the bars cool completely at room temperature (or speed it up in the fridge).
Once firm, lift out using the parchment overhang and slice into squares.

Tips for the Best Caramelitas
Use Rolled Oats – Quick oats won’t give the same chewy texture.
Let Them Cool – Cutting too soon will be messy (but still delicious).
Line Your Pan – Parchment or foil helps lift and cut cleanly.
Want Extra Gooey? – Add a little extra caramel or chocolate chips.
Add Sea Salt – A sprinkle of flaky salt on top gives a sweet-salty balance.

Serving Suggestions
• With a scoop of vanilla ice cream
• As part of a dessert tray or cookie exchange
• Warmed up slightly with a drizzle of chocolate sauce
• Paired with coffee or hot cocoa for a cozy treat

How to Store & Freeze

Storing:
• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Refrigerate for a firmer texture and longer shelf life (up to 7 days).

Freezing:
• Wrap bars individually or freeze in a single layer, then transfer to freezer bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of melting candies?
Yes, but make sure it’s a thick, good-quality sauce so the bars stay gooey without getting soggy.

2. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Use a 9×13 pan and adjust the baking time slightly.

3. Are these gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free flour blend and certified GF oats to make them gluten-free.

4. Can I use other chocolate?
Yes—try milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate chips for variation.

5. Can I skip the nuts?
Of course! They’re completely optional and can be replaced with more chocolate or coconut flakes.

Final Thoughts
These Easy Caramelitas are gooey, rich, and guaranteed to win over anyone who tries them. Whether you’re baking for friends, family, or just to treat yourself, this recipe is a sure hit. Simple to make and totally addictive—don’t be surprised if they disappear in minutes!

Give them a try and let me know how they turn out. Don’t forget to leave a review or tag your sweet creations online!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Baking Time: 28 minutes
Cooling Time: 1 hour
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Bar):
Calories: 290 | Protein: 2g | Carbohydrates: 35g | Fat: 16g | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 22g | Sodium: 120mg

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