Caramelitas are a decadent dessert bar made with layers of buttery oatmeal crust, gooey caramel, and rich chocolate chips. These sweet and salty bars are perfect for any occasion, from potlucks to holiday gatherings. With their chewy texture and irresistible flavor, caramelitas are sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them.

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Cooking Tips & Notes
• Variations
• FAQs
• Conclusion

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1 1/2 cups packed brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, melted
• 1 jar (11 oz) caramel sauce or 1 1/2 cups homemade caramel sauce
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.

Step 2: Make the Crust and Topping

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt. Stir until well mixed.
2. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 3: Assemble the Layers

1. Press half of the oatmeal mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form an even layer.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Filling

1. While the crust is baking, combine the caramel sauce and heavy cream in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir until smooth and warmed through.
2. Remove the crust from the oven and sprinkle the chocolate chips and chopped nuts (if using) evenly over the hot crust.
3. Pour the warm caramel mixture evenly over the chocolate chips and nuts.

Step 5: Add the Topping

1. Crumble the remaining oatmeal mixture evenly over the caramel layer.

Step 6: Bake

1. Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 18-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
2. Let the caramelitas cool completely in the baking dish, then refrigerate for 1-2 hours to set.

Step 7: Serve

1. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the caramelitas out of the baking dish.
2. Cut into bars and serve. Enjoy!

Cooking Tips & Notes

• Caramel Sauce: If you prefer, you can make your own caramel sauce from scratch or use store-bought. Make sure it’s a thick and rich caramel for the best results.
• Cooling Time: Allowing the caramelitas to cool completely before cutting is essential to ensure they hold their shape. Refrigerating them helps set the layers for clean cuts.
• Nuts: Adding chopped pecans or walnuts is optional but adds a nice crunch to the bars.

Variations

• Salted Caramelitas: Sprinkle a little sea salt over the caramel layer before adding the topping for a sweet and salty flavor.
• Peanut Butter Caramelitas: Add 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter to the caramel mixture for a peanut butter twist.
• Chocolate Lovers: Use a mix of semi-sweet and milk chocolate chips, or even add white chocolate chips for extra decadence.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make these bars gluten-free.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Make Caramelitas Ahead of Time?

Yes! Caramelitas can be made up to 2 days in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

2. How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store leftover caramelitas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months.

3. Can I Use Quick Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?

Yes, you can use quick oats, but the texture will be slightly different. Rolled oats provide a chewier texture that works well in this recipe.

4. How Do I Prevent the Caramel from Sticking to the Knife When Cutting?

To prevent sticking, lightly spray your knife with cooking spray or warm the knife under hot water, then dry it before cutting the bars.

Caramelitas are the perfect blend of buttery oats, rich chocolate, and gooey caramel that make for an indulgent dessert everyone will love. Whether you’re making them for a party, a family gathering, or just because, these bars are sure to be a hit. With their easy preparation and incredible flavor, caramelitas are a must-try dessert that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the sweet, caramel-filled goodness!