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Carmelitas

Carmelitas: Chewy Caramel Oat Bars That Wow Everyone

Carmelitas are chewy caramel oat bars that combine caramel, chocolate, and oats for a delightful treat everyone loves.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

For the Caramel Filling
  • 1 cup Caramel Squares or Bits Homemade caramel can add a personal touch.
  • 1/2 cup Heavy Cream You may substitute with milk or half-and-half.
For the Cookie Base
  • 1/2 cup Butter Consider coconut oil for a dairy-free alternative.
  • 1 cup Brown Sugar Coconut sugar is a great substitute.
  • 1 cup All-Purpose Flour Gluten-free blend can work well if needed.
  • 1 cup Rolled Oats Quick oats can be used but might alter the consistency.
  • 1 teaspoon Baking Soda Ensure it’s fresh for the best rise.
  • 1 cup Semisweet Chocolate Chips Feel free to swap in dark or white chocolate chips.

Equipment

  • medium saucepan
  • large mixing bowl
  • Baking pan (8x8 or 9x9 inch)

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Carmelitas
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 or 9x9 inch baking pan with foil or parchment paper.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine caramel squares and heavy cream over low heat, stirring for 5–7 minutes until melted and smooth.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, all-purpose flour, rolled oats, and baking soda. Mix until just combined.
  4. Press half of the oatmeal mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan and bake for 10 minutes until slightly golden.
  5. Sprinkle chocolate chips over the baked crust, then pour warm caramel mixture evenly over them.
  6. Crumble the remaining oatmeal mixture over the caramel layer and return to the oven for an additional 15–20 minutes.
  7. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan for about 30 minutes before slicing into bars.

Nutrition

Serving: 1barCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 2gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 80mgFiber: 1gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 300IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For best results, follow cooling times and avoid overbaking for the perfect texture.

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