Carmelitas

Delight in the Gooey Layers of Homemade Carmelitas

Get ready to fall in love with the ultimate dessert bar — Carmelitas. This heavenly treat combines layers of buttery oats, rich chocolate, and silky caramel, baked together into one unforgettable bite. Each piece melts in your mouth, offering the perfect balance of crunch and gooey sweetness that makes every moment feel indulgent.

Whether you’re baking for a family night, a cozy gathering, or just because, these bars bring comfort in every layer. With their soft, chewy texture and irresistible aroma, Carmelitas make dessert time an event worth savoring.

Sweet and Buttery Layers: Why This Carmelitas Recipe Shines

These Carmelitas aren’t just any dessert bars—they’re a beautiful harmony of textures and flavors. The base and topping deliver that signature oat-butter crumble, while the caramel and chocolate create a luscious center that feels luxurious with every bite. It’s a recipe that perfectly captures the joy of baking from scratch, yet it’s simple enough for any home baker to master.

If you’re looking to impress guests or treat yourself to a special sweet moment, this dessert delivers on every front. It’s similar in joy to homemade treasures like Pineapple Dream Dessert and Peaches and Cream Cake, but it stands out with its gooey caramel perfection.

Pro Tips for Perfect Carmelitas:

1. Line the Pan Properly: Always use foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup and smooth removal once cooled.
2. Don’t Rush the Cooling: Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing. This ensures neat, firm squares and avoids a sticky mess.
3. Use Quality Caramel: The flavor of your caramel truly defines the bars. Go for soft, creamy caramels that melt evenly.
4. Even Layers Matter: Spread the oat mixture and caramel evenly to get balanced bites of texture in every square.
5. Storage Tip: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Carmelitas Recipe: Gooey Caramel Oat Bars with Chocolate

• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 25 minutes
• Cooling time: 4 hours
• Servings: 9 large or 16 small bars
• Equipment: 8×8-inch pan, mixing bowls, microwave-safe bowl, whisk, spatula

With this easy recipe, you’ll transform your kitchen into a caramel-scented haven. These bars capture the same comfort as a warm batch of Easy Dutch Oven No-Knead Bread or Sticky Bun Breakfast Ring, proving that simple ingredients can create stunning results.

Ingredients:

• ¾ cup butter, melted (1 ½ sticks; unsalted preferred)
• ¾ cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 35 caramel squares, unwrapped (Werther’s Originals Soft Caramels recommended)
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chunks

Directions:

1. Prepare the Pan:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8-inch pan with aluminum foil and lightly spray it with cooking spray. This step makes cleanup easier and prevents sticking.
2. Mix the Base:
   In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter (about 90 seconds on high). Whisk in brown sugar and vanilla until smooth. Add flour, oats, baking soda, and salt, stirring until a thick mixture forms.
3. Form the First Layer:
   Press half of the oat mixture into the prepared pan. Smooth it evenly with a spatula or the back of a spoon, then bake for 10 minutes.
4. Make the Caramel Sauce:
   While the base bakes, place the caramels and cream into a large microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 60-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth and fully melted (4–5 minutes total). You can also melt them on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring constantly.
5. Assemble the Layers:
   Remove the baked base from the oven. Sprinkle chocolate chips evenly across the hot layer. Slowly pour the caramel sauce over the chocolate, spreading gently to cover. Crumble the remaining oat mixture over the top to create the final layer.
6. Bake Again:
   Return the pan to the oven and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden and the center is slightly bubbly.
7. Cool and Set:
   Let the Carmelitas cool completely in the pan—this step is crucial for clean slicing. For faster setting, cover the pan and refrigerate until firm (about 2 hours).
8. Slice and Enjoy:
   Once cooled, cut into bars and serve. The chewy oats, silky caramel, and melted chocolate will create a dessert that’s impossible to resist.

A Treat That Feels Like a Warm Hug

Every bite of Carmelitas delivers pure comfort. The buttery crust, gooey caramel, and chocolate combine into a perfect symphony of sweetness. It’s a dessert that pairs beautifully with coffee or tea and feels just as special as a slice of Pecan Pie Cheesecake.

This recipe also makes a lovely homemade gift. Wrap a few bars in parchment and tie them with a ribbon—they’re sure to brighten someone’s day. Much like Bundt Cake Breakfast, these bars bring simple joy in every bite.

Final Thoughts on Homemade Carmelitas

When it comes to indulgent desserts, Carmelitas rank among the best. They’re versatile enough for holidays, bake sales, or everyday moments when you crave something sweet and satisfying. With every layer baked to perfection, these bars remind us why homemade treats always win hearts.

Whether enjoyed warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or cool with a drizzle of caramel, this recipe proves that little moments of sweetness can make any day better. For another comforting dessert, try the Old-Fashioned Rice Pudding or the rich Chocolate Cobbler.

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