Carmelitas are delightful dessert bars featuring layers of buttery oats, rich chocolate, and gooey caramel. They’re a perfect treat for any occasion.

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For the Crust and Topping:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup quick-cooking oats
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 jar (12.25 ounces) caramel ice cream topping
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

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Prepare the Oven and Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 13×9-inch baking pan.
Make the Crust and Topping:
- In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of flour, oats, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt.
- Stir in the melted butter until the mixture is crumbly.
Assemble the Base Layer:
- Press half of the oat mixture into the prepared baking pan to form an even layer.
- Bake for 10 minutes or until set.
Add the Chocolate Layer:
- Remove the pan from the oven and sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the baked crust.
Prepare the Caramel Filling:
- In a small bowl, mix the caramel topping with the remaining 1 tablespoon of flour until well blended.
Assemble the Caramel Layer:
- Drizzle the caramel mixture over the chocolate chips.
- Sprinkle with chopped walnuts if using.
Add the Topping:
- Crumble the remaining oat mixture over the caramel layer, covering as much as possible.
Bake:
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-22 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned and the caramel is bubbly.
Cool and Serve:
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Once cooled, cut into bars and serve.

For easier removal and cutting, you can line the baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
Ensure the bars are completely cool before cutting to prevent them from falling apart.