Description
These Caramelitas are a deliciously chewy and gooey dessert bar featuring a buttery oat crust layered with melted caramel and rich chocolate chips. Baked to golden perfection, they combine the comforting flavors of caramel and chocolate with a satisfying oat texture, perfect for sharing at any gathering or enjoying as a sweet treat.
Ingredients
Scale
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 of soft caramels (around 11 oz)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Pan: Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan thoroughly to prevent sticking, and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.
- Make the Caramel: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the soft caramels and heavy cream. Stir continuously until the caramels have fully melted into a smooth, creamy caramel sauce. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Make the Oat Mixture: In a medium bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, all-purpose flour, rolled oats, and baking soda until everything is evenly combined into a crumbly batter.
- Press the Base: Take half of the oat mixture and press it firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, creating a solid crust layer.
- Bake the Crust: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes to set the crust. Once done, remove it from the oven and immediately sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the warm crust.
- Add the Caramel Layer: Pour the prepared caramel mixture evenly over the layer of chocolate chips, allowing it to spread out smoothly.
- Add the Top Layer: Spread the remaining oat mixture gently over the caramel layer, pressing lightly so it adheres but doesn’t press the layers too hard.
- Bake the Bars: Return the entire dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes or until the top layer turns a golden brown color, signaling that the bars are cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the caramelitas from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares for serving.
Notes
- Ensure the caramel mixture is smooth before pouring over the bars to avoid clumps.
- Press oat mixture layers evenly for consistent baking and texture.
- Allow bars to cool fully for cleaner cuts and better texture.
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
