Description

Soft & Chewy Carmelitas are rich dessert bars layered with buttery oats, gooey caramel, and melted chocolate in every bite. These easy dessert bars are perfect for parties, holiday trays, bake sales, or cozy nights at home when you want a simple homemade treat that feels extra special. With their soft chewy texture and irresistible caramel filling, they quickly become a favorite for anyone who loves chocolate desserts, easy baking recipes, sweet snack ideas, and comforting homemade treats.

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup old-fashioned oats

3/4 cup brown sugar

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon salt

3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

11 ounces soft caramel candies

1/3 cup heavy cream

1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking soda, and salt.

3. Stir in the melted butter and vanilla extract until the mixture becomes crumbly.

4. Press half of the oat mixture firmly into the prepared baking pan.

5. Bake the crust for 10 minutes until lightly golden.

6. While the crust bakes, melt the caramel candies and heavy cream together over low heat, stirring until smooth.

7. Remove the crust from the oven and sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the surface.

8. Add the chopped nuts if using.

9. Pour the melted caramel mixture evenly over the chocolate layer.

10. Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture over the caramel without pressing it down firmly.

11. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes until the top is golden brown and the caramel is bubbling slightly.

12. Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing into squares.

13. Serve and enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Allow the Carmelitas to cool completely before slicing for cleaner layers and better texture.

Use old-fashioned oats instead of quick oats to achieve the best chewy consistency.

Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top before serving for a delicious sweet-and-salty flavor boost.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 380
Sugar: 32g
Sodium: 180mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: soft chewy carmelitas, caramel dessert bars, chocolate caramel bars, easy dessert recipe, oat dessert bars, homemade dessert ideas, easy baking recipe