Description
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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Ingredients
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)
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.
Notes
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.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 28 minutes
- Cuisine: American