Description

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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Ingredients

Scale

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

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Instructions

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.

Notes

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.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: American