Description
Caramelitas are delicious layered bars featuring a buttery oat crust, a rich caramel and chocolate center, and a golden oat topping. These chewy, sweet treats are perfect for dessert or snacks and bring together the delightful flavors of caramel, chocolate, and oats in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Oat Crust and Topping
- 1 cup rolled oats
- ¾ cup melted butter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
For the 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 and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking.
- Make the Caramel: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the soft caramels and heavy cream. Stir continuously until the caramel melts completely and the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
- Make the Oat Mixture: In a medium bowl, mix together the melted butter, brown sugar, all-purpose flour, rolled oats, and baking soda until everything is evenly combined, forming a crumbly oat mixture.
- Press the Base: Take half of the oat mixture and firmly press it into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly to create the base layer.
- Bake the Crust: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake the crust for 10 minutes to set. After baking, remove the pan from the oven.
- Add the Chocolate and Caramel: Evenly sprinkle the chocolate chips over the baked crust. Then, pour the caramel mixture over the chocolate chips, allowing it to spread slightly.
- Add the Top Layer: Spread the remaining half of the oat mixture gently over the caramel layer, pressing it down slightly to adhere well.
- Bake the Bars: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the top layer turns golden brown and the bars are set.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. Serve and enjoy the chewy, sweet caramelitas.
Notes
- Be sure to use soft caramels for easy melting and smooth caramel filling.
- Press the oat mixture firmly into the pan for a sturdier crust and topping.
- Letting the bars cool completely before cutting helps them hold their shape better.
- You can substitute chocolate chips with butterscotch or white chocolate chips for variation.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
