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

I don't recommend it. Quick oats absorb moisture differently and will change the texture of the bars. Old-fashioned (rolled) oats give that perfect chewy texture that makes Caramelitas special.

What if I can't find baking caramels?

You have options! You can use about 1 cup of caramel sauce, though the layer might be a bit softer. Alternatively, unwrap about 35-40 regular soft caramel candies and melt those with the cream instead.

Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?

Absolutely! Double all ingredients and bake in a 9x13 inch pan. You may need to increase the baking time by a few minutes, but keep an eye on them and look for that golden top and bubbling caramel as indicators they're done.

Why did my caramel layer disappear into the crust?

This typically happens if the bottom crust wasn't baked long enough before adding the caramel. Make sure to bake that bottom layer for the full 10 minutes to create a stable surface for the caramel and chocolate.

Irresistible Caramelitas Recipe

Description

Caramelitas are a delicious dessert bar made with layers of buttery oats, rich caramel, and chocolate chips for the ultimate sweet treat. With a chewy texture and irresistible gooey caramel center, these bars make a perfect indulgence for any occasion.

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Oat Crust and Topping

3/4 cup butter, melted
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup old-fashioned oats
3/4 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda

For the Caramel Filling

11 oz bag baking caramels, unwrapped
1/2 cup heavy cream

Other

1 cup chocolate chips

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Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8 inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Make the Caramel Sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine unwrapped caramels and heavy cream. Stir constantly until the mixture melts into a smooth caramel sauce. Remove from heat and set aside.
Mix Oat Crust: In a medium bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, flour, oats, and baking soda. Stir until the mixture is well combined and crumbly.
Form Bottom Layer: Press half of the oat mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish to form the crust.
Bake Crust: Bake the crust for 10 minutes. Remove from oven but leave the oven on.
Add Chocolate and Caramel: Sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the hot crust. Pour the caramel sauce evenly over the chocolate layer.
Add Topping: Crumble and sprinkle the remaining oat mixture evenly over the caramel and chocolate layers.
Bake Again: Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 18-20 minutes, until the edges are golden and set.
Cool and Slice: Let the Caramelitas cool completely in the pan to allow the caramel to set. Once cool, slice into bars and serve.

Notes

Allow bars to cool completely before slicing to prevent them from falling apart.
You can line the pan with parchment paper for easier removal and cleaner slices.
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
Feel free to substitute milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips according to preference.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 295
Sugar: 22g
Sodium: 162mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 5.5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 39g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 31mg