Easy Caramelitas Recipe

If you love gooey, buttery bars packed with caramel and chocolate, this Easy Caramelitas Recipe is about to become your go-to dessert! With a rich oatmeal cookie crust, sweet caramel center, and melty chocolate chips in every bite, these layered bars are everything you want in a sweet treat. Simple to make and even easier to devour, they’re perfect for potlucks, holiday trays, or a cozy night in.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Gooey & Decadent – Caramel and chocolate together? Yes, please.
Simple Ingredients – Pantry staples come together beautifully.
No Mixer Needed – Just a bowl, a spoon, and some layering.
Perfect Make-Ahead Dessert – Tastes even better the next day.
Portable & Shareable – Great for lunchboxes, bake sales, and gifting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Oatmeal Crust & Topping:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups old-fashioned oats
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt

For the Filling:

• 1 (11 oz) bag caramel bits or 40 wrapped caramels, unwrapped
• 2 tbsp heavy cream or milk
• 1 cup semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips
• Optional: ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts

Tools You’ll Need

• 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Medium saucepan
• Mixing bowls
• Rubber spatula or spoon

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.

Step 2: Make the Oatmeal Crust
In a large bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, and vanilla.
Stir in flour, oats, baking soda, and salt until well mixed.
Press half of the mixture into the bottom of the pan to form an even layer.
Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from oven.

Step 3: Prepare the Caramel Filling
While the crust is baking, melt caramel bits and heavy cream in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until smooth.
Remove from heat once fully melted and pourable.

Step 4: Layer the Caramelitas
Sprinkle chocolate chips (and nuts, if using) over the partially baked crust.
Pour melted caramel evenly over the chocolate chips.
Crumble remaining oat mixture over the top, gently pressing it down.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Return to oven and bake for 20–22 minutes, or until top is golden and edges are bubbling.
Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

Step 6: Chill & Slice
For cleaner cuts, refrigerate for at least 1 hour before slicing.
Use a sharp knife and serve at room temperature or chilled.

Tips for the Best Caramelitas
Use Parchment Paper – Makes lifting and slicing a breeze.
Let Them Set – Chilling is key to getting those clean, beautiful layers.
Don’t Overbake – The bars will firm up as they cool.
Mix Chocolate Types – Try combining milk and dark chocolate chips for variety.
Add a Sprinkle of Sea Salt – A pinch on top enhances all the flavors.

Serving Suggestions
A la Mode – Top with vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
Holiday Cookie Tray – A standout among traditional cookies.
Party Squares – Cut into bite-size portions for a crowd.
Coffee Companion – Perfect with a cup of espresso or cappuccino.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:

• Room Temp: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: Keeps well chilled for up to 1 week.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature.

Reheating:

• Microwave: Warm a slice for 10–15 seconds for a gooey, fresh-from-the-oven taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
Yes, but the texture will be slightly softer and less chewy.

2. Can I make this gluten-free?
Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and certified gluten-free oats.

3. What if I don’t have caramel bits?
Use wrapped caramels and melt with a splash of cream, or try a thick caramel sauce.

4. Can I double the recipe?
Yes—use a 9×13-inch pan and adjust baking times slightly (add 5–7 more minutes).

5. How do I cut them cleanly?
Chill first, then use a sharp knife cleaned between cuts.

Final Thoughts
These Easy Caramelitas are a rich, buttery, and gooey dessert bar that’s perfect for any occasion. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a batch of indulgent treats that taste like they came from a bakery. They’re everything you love about caramel and chocolate, wrapped up in a tender oatmeal crust.

Try them out and tag your sweet square creations—I’d love to see your delicious results!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 30 minutes
Chilling Time: 1 hour
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Bar, 16 servings):
Calories: 320 | Protein: 3g | Carbohydrates: 35g | Fat: 18g | Sugar: 22g | Sodium: 140mg

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