Name: Salted Caramel Carmelitas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1.5 cups all-purpose flour (sifted); 1 cup brown sugar (packed); 0.5 cup butter (melted); 1 cup caramel sauce (prepared); 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet)

If you’re looking to indulge your sweet tooth with a decadent dessert, look no further than these irresistible Salted Caramel Carmelitas. With layers of gooey caramel and rich chocolate nestled between buttery oatmeal cookie crusts, each bite is a delightful explosion of flavors sensory enough to transport you to dessert heaven.

This special recipe has been a cherished secret in our family for years. My grandmother used to make these carmelitas for every major holiday, and I still recall the sweet aroma filling the entire house. I fondly remember sneaking into the kitchen as a child, hoping to be the first to taste the warm, gooey bars straight from the oven. Now, I carry on her tradition, sharing this beloved dessert with friends and family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: Simple steps mean anyone can create this show-stopping treat.
Perfect Balance: The sweet and salty contrast will satisfy all of your cravings.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare these bars in advance and serve effortlessly during gatherings.
Versatile: Perfect as a dessert for casual family meals, festive occasions, or as a gift.

Ingredients Notes

To make these carmelitas, you will need some pantry staples and a few special ingredients. Opt for high-quality caramel sauce to ensure the best taste. You can substitute dark chocolate chips for milk chocolate chips if you prefer a less sweet flavor. Be sure to use old-fashioned oats for the right texture in the oatmeal cookie crust. Gluten-free oats work as a substitute for gluten-sensitive guests.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2

Combine melted butter, brown sugar, salt, baking soda, and flour in a mixing bowl. Add old-fashioned oats until the mixture forms a crumbly crust.

Step 3

Press half of the oat mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for about 10 minutes, or until the crust is lightly browned.

Step 4

Sprinkle chocolate chips and chopped nuts over the baked crust. Pour the caramel sauce evenly over the top, then sprinkle the remaining oat mixture over the filling.

Step 5

Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. Cool completely before cutting into bars.

Storage Options

Store these carmelitas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. To freeze, wrap each bar individually with plastic wrap and place in a zip-top bag for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat briefly in the microwave for that fresh-baked taste.

Variations & Substitutions

For a nut-free version, omit the nuts entirely or substitute with seeds. Enhance the flavor with a teaspoon of cinnamon in the oat crust. If you’re vegan, substitute traditional butter with plant-based butter and use dairy-free chocolate chips and caramel sauce.

Serving Suggestions

These indulgent bars are perfect for all occasions. Enjoy them with a cup of tea in the afternoon, or serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla Ice Cream for a lavish dessert experience. They make an excellent addition to any festive dessert table or as a thoughtful homemade gift.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these carmelitas gluten-free? Yes, simply swap the regular oats for certified gluten-free oats and ensure your caramel sauce doesn’t contain gluten-containing ingredients.

What kind of caramel sauce should I use? You can use store-bought caramel sauce or homemade if you prefer. Just make sure it’s thick enough to hold up during baking without oozing out too much.

Can I double the recipe? Absolutely! Double the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan to accommodate the larger quantity. Baking time may need slight adjustments, so keep an eye on it as it bakes.

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