Description

Carmelitas are an irresistible dessert created with layers of soft caramels, chocolate chips, and buttery oats. Perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings with simple preparation, these bars bring comfort and delight in every bite, making them an ideal addition to any gathering.

Ingredients

Scale

11 ounces soft caramels, unwrapped
3 ounces heavy cream
¾ cup butter, softened (1 ½ sticks)
¾ cup light brown sugar, packed
1 ¼ cups flour
1 cup old fashioned oats
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract
½ teaspoon salt
1 ¼ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (milk chocolate works as well)

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal later.
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the unwrapped caramels and heavy cream. Microwave in 30-40 second increments, stirring in between until softened. Avoid boiling, as this can scorch the caramels. (Alternatively, use medium-high heat on the stove.) Set aside to cool slightly and thicken.
In a large bowl, mix the room temperature butter, brown sugar, flour, oats, baking soda, vanilla extract, and salt with a hand mixer until a thick dough forms. You can also use your hands towards the end to ensure it's evenly combined.
Divide the dough in half and press one half into the prepared pan. Bake for 8 minutes, then remove from the oven. Immediately sprinkle the chocolate chips over the crust and pour the melted caramel over them, smoothing it into an even layer with a spreader.
Crumble the remaining dough mixture over the caramel layer, avoiding pressing it down.
Bake for another 15-18 minutes until the edges are lightly browned and the top is set. Remove from the oven and let cool at room temperature for at least 2 hours before cutting into bars. A 30-minute chill in the fridge can also help set. Store in an airtight container for 2-4 days.

Notes

For best results, allow the bars to cool fully before cutting them into squares to prevent falling apart.
Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and flavor.
Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate chips or even add nuts for extra texture.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 210
Sugar: 15g
Sodium: 120mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 30mg