Caramelitas

Caramelitas are the ultimate indulgent dessert, combining a buttery oatmeal crust with a gooey caramel and chocolate filling. This sweet treat is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to casual weeknight desserts. With its rich layers and satisfying texture, it’s a recipe you’ll return to time and time again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple yet decadent: With just a handful of ingredients, Caramelitas deliver a bakery-quality dessert that’s easy to make at home.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a holiday party, potluck, or just a cozy night in, these bars are a crowd-pleaser.
• Customizable: You can adjust the filling with different types of chocolate, nuts, or caramel.
• Make-ahead friendly: Caramelitas store well, so you can prepare them in advance and enjoy later.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Old-fashioned oats
• Brown sugar
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Unsalted butter
• Caramel sauce
• Heavy cream
• Semisweet chocolate chips

Directions

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the crust and topping: In a mixing bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt. Stir in melted butter until the mixture is crumbly.
3. Layer the crust: Press half of the oat mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even layer. Bake for 10 minutes.
4. Make the filling: In a small bowl, mix caramel sauce with heavy cream until smooth.
5. Assemble the layers: Remove the crust from the oven and sprinkle chocolate chips over it. Pour the caramel mixture evenly on top, then sprinkle the remaining oat mixture over the caramel.
6. Bake again: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Cool completely: Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing, as the filling will set as it cools.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 16 bars
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Add nuts: Include chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy addition.
• Use different chocolate: Swap out semisweet chocolate chips for milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or white chocolate.
• Salted caramel: Use salted caramel sauce for a sweet and salty twist.
• Gluten-free version: Substitute a gluten-free flour blend and certified gluten-free oats.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store Caramelitas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Freezing: Freeze individual bars wrapped in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
• Reheating: Warm a bar in the microwave for 10–15 seconds for a gooey, just-baked texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?

Yes, but the texture will be slightly different as quick oats are more finely processed.

2. What type of caramel sauce works best?

A thick, high-quality caramel sauce will give the best flavor and consistency.

3. Can I make Caramelitas ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars can be made a day or two in advance and stored until ready to serve.

4. Can I use homemade caramel sauce?

Yes, homemade caramel sauce works wonderfully and enhances the flavor of the dessert.

5. Do I need to refrigerate Caramelitas?

Not necessarily, but refrigeration extends their freshness, especially in warm climates.

6. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free butter and a coconut or almond-based caramel sauce.

7. Why are my Caramelitas falling apart?

Make sure they cool completely before slicing, as the caramel needs time to set.

8. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply use a larger baking pan and adjust the baking time as needed.

9. How do I cut perfect bars?

Use a sharp knife and clean it with a damp cloth between cuts to keep the edges neat.

10. Can I add a drizzle on top?

Yes, drizzle melted chocolate or extra caramel sauce over the cooled bars for added decoration.

Conclusion

Caramelitas are a classic dessert that balances rich flavors with satisfying textures. With layers of buttery oatmeal crust, gooey caramel, and melty chocolate, these bars are hard to resist. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, they’re a fantastic choice for both novice bakers and seasoned dessert enthusiasts. Try them today, and watch them disappear!

Print