Carmelitas Bars Recipe

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If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that delivers layers of irresistible textures and flavors, look no further than this Carmelitas Bars Recipe. These bars combine a buttery oat crust, luscious caramel, and rich chocolate in one glorious bite, making them a guaranteed hit for any occasion. The balance of chewy oats, smooth caramel, and melty chocolate makes this dessert feel both comforting and indulgent — perfect for sharing with friends or savoring all to yourself.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Carmelitas Bars Recipe plays an essential role, coming together in harmony to create a perfect blend of flavors and textures. From the creamy butter to the tactile oats and luscious caramel, every element contributes to the magic of these bars.

• 3/4 cup salted butter, melted: Gives richness and helps bind the oat crust for that wonderful chew.
• 2/3 cup brown sugar, packed: Adds deep sweetness with a hint of molasses that complements the caramel layer.
• 1 Tablespoon vanilla extract: Infuses a warm, inviting aroma that enhances all the other flavors.
• 1 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Provides structure to the bars, ensuring they hold together nicely.
• 1 1/4 cup rolled oats or old fashioned oats: Brings a hearty texture and wholesome flavor to the crust and topping.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps lighten the oat crust so it isn’t too dense.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, divided: Balances sweetness and intensifies flavors in both crust and caramel layers.
• 40 caramel squares: The star ingredient that creates the gooey, buttery caramel center.
• 1/3 cup heavy cream: Blended with caramel for a silky, luscious filling.
• 1 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melts perfectly over the crust, adding decadent chocolate goodness.

How to Make Carmelitas Bars Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Start by preheating the oven to 350°F (177°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper and grease it lightly. This step will prevent the sticky caramel from clinging to the pan and makes removing the bars a breeze.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Mixture

In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter until it’s smooth and fragrant. Whisk in the brown sugar and vanilla extract to create a luscious, sweet base that will infuse every bite with flavor.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Add the flour, oats, baking soda, and half of the salt to the butter mixture. Use a pastry cutter or fork to mix until crumbly and evenly combined. This mixture will be the foundation of your bars, giving them the perfect balance of tender and chewy.

Step 4: Form the Base

Press half of your oat mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake this crust layer for 10 minutes until it’s slightly set—this initial bake creates a sturdy base that can support the caramel and chocolate layers.

Step 5: Prepare the Caramel Filling

While the crust bakes, stir together the caramel squares, heavy cream, and the remaining salt in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat carefully in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until the mixture is melted and smooth. Be gentle here—overheating can cause the caramel to seize.

Step 6: Layer the Chocolate

Once the crust finishes baking, immediately sprinkle the chocolate chips over the hot crust. The residual heat will start melting the chocolate, creating that dreamy melty layer everyone loves.

Step 7: Add the Caramel Layer

Pour the warm caramel sauce evenly over the layer of melting chocolate chips. This combination of gooey caramel and soft chocolate is pure bliss in every bite.

Step 8: Top with Remaining Crust

Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture over the caramel. Gently press it down with your hands or tap the pan to help the topping stick without pushing the layers too much.

Step 9: Bake the Bars

Return the pan to the oven and bake for 15 more minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the top is lightly browned and set, signaling that all the luscious layers have come together perfectly.

Step 10: Cooling and Slicing

Allow your Carmelitas Bars to cool completely on a wire rack. For the cleanest slices and to keep that silky caramel from oozing out, let the pan rest at room temperature overnight or refrigerate for at least 3 hours before cutting into squares.

How to Serve Carmelitas Bars Recipe

Garnishes

These bars are stunning on their own, but if you want to add a little extra flair, consider sprinkling a pinch of flaky sea salt on top once cooled to enhance the caramel’s sweetness. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted white chocolate also makes for a beautiful finish.

Side Dishes

Carmelitas Bars pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a classic “a la mode” treat. They also stand up nicely alongside a hot cup of coffee or freshly brewed tea, making them perfect for dessert or afternoon indulgence.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party or gift, stack the bars in a pretty box layered with parchment paper. You can also cut them into mini squares for bite-sized treats perfect for sharing. Adding a caramel drizzle or decorative swirl of melted chocolate on top before serving takes presentation to the next level.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Carmelitas Bars fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For warmer climates, it’s best to refrigerate them to maintain their texture and prevent the caramel from becoming too soft.

Freezing

Want to make these bars ahead of time? Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They freeze wonderfully for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

Reheating

If you like your Carmelitas Bars slightly warm, pop them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. This will soften the caramel and chocolate layers, making each bite even more decadent and gooey.

FAQs

Can I use different types of caramel for this recipe?

Absolutely! While caramel squares melt evenly, you can also use soft caramel candies or homemade caramel sauce. Just make sure any caramel you use melts smoothly and isn’t too thick to spread evenly.

Are rolled oats necessary, or can I use instant oats?

Rolled or old-fashioned oats are best because they hold up better under heat and give you that chewy, satisfying texture. Instant oats might make the bars too soft and not provide the same hearty bite.

Can I substitute the semi-sweet chocolate chips with another type?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate chips. Each variety will bring a slightly different flavor profile, which can be delicious all on its own.

How do I ensure the bars slice cleanly without the caramel oozing out?

Patience is key! Let the bars cool completely and preferably chill them in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. This firms up the caramel, making it easier to cut neat squares without sticking or sliding layers.

Is it possible to make these bars gluten-free?

Definitely. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend that includes xanthan gum, and make sure your oats are certified gluten-free. The texture might be slightly different, but the flavors will still shine.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a dessert that strikes the perfect balance between chewy, gooey, and chocolaty, this Carmelitas Bars Recipe is your new best friend. It’s an impressive yet approachable treat that’s sure to bring smiles around your table. Give it a try—you might just find yourself reaching for seconds before anyone else has a chance!

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