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Caramelitas Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 136 reviews

Caramelitas are rich, chewy bars made with a buttery oat crust, a luscious layer of melted caramels and cream, and studded with chocolate chips. These homemade bars combine the comforting flavors of caramel, chocolate, and oats into a perfect sweet treat, baked to golden perfection and ideal for dessert or snacks.

Ingredients

Scale

Oat Crust

  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • ¾ cup melted butter
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ¾ cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda

Filling

  • 1 bag soft caramels (around 11 oz)
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pan and Oven: Grease an 8×8 inch baking pan thoroughly to prevent sticking. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking.
  2. Melt the Caramel Mixture: In a small saucepan set over medium heat, combine the soft caramels with the heavy cream. Stir continuously to melt the caramels evenly until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Remove from heat and set aside.
  3. Mix the Oat Crust Ingredients: In a separate mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, all-purpose flour, rolled oats, and baking soda. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated and form a cohesive oat mixture.
  4. Form the Bottom Crust: Take half of the oat mixture and press it firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating a solid base layer for the bars.
  5. Bake the Bottom Crust: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the crust for 10 minutes. This pre-baking step helps set the oat base for layering.
  6. Add Chocolate and Caramel Layers: Remove the pan from the oven. Sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the baked crust. Immediately pour the smooth caramel mixture over the chocolate chips to create the filling layer.
  7. Top with Remaining Oat Mixture: Take the remaining half of the oat mixture and spread it evenly over the caramel layer, pressing gently to form the top crust.
  8. Bake Until Golden: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes or until the top crust is nicely browned and set.
  9. Cool and Serve: Remove from oven and allow the caramelitas to cool completely in the pan. This cooling process helps the bars set firmly, making them easier to cut into squares before serving.

Notes

  • Ensure the caramel mixture is smooth before pouring to avoid lumps in the filling.
  • Press the oat mixture firmly to prevent crumbly bars.
  • Use a sharp knife to cut bars once fully cooled for clean edges.
  • Store the caramelitas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
  • Optional: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch.

Keywords: caramelitas, caramel bars, oat bars, chocolate caramel bars, baked dessert bars, caramel chocolate dessert

Find it online: https://cookedbycleo.com/caramelitas-recipe/