Caramelitas

Caramelitas are a delectable dessert that blends the richness of chocolate and caramel with the comforting crunch of a buttery oat crust. These indulgent bars are perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth, offering layers of texture and flavor that come together in every bite. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or served as a sweet ending to a meal, caramelitas are bound to impress.

INGREDIENTS

• All-purpose flour: 2 cups, for the structure of the crust and topping.
• Old-fashioned rolled oats: 2 cups, to add texture and a subtle nutty flavor.
• Brown sugar: 1½ cups, packed, to sweeten the crust and add depth of flavor.
• Baking soda: 1 tsp, to help the crust rise slightly.
• Salt: ½ tsp, to balance the sweetness.
• Unsalted butter: 1½ cups, melted, to bind the crust and topping together.
• Caramel sauce: 1½ cups, to create a gooey middle layer.
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips: 1 cup, for rich chocolatey goodness.
• Chopped pecans (optional): ½ cup, for added crunch and flavor.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2:

In a large bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture becomes crumbly.

Step 3:

Press half of the oat mixture firmly into the prepared baking dish to create the crust. Bake for 10 minutes, until it turns lightly golden.

Step 4:

Once the crust is out of the oven, sprinkle the chocolate chips and pecans (if using) evenly on top. Pour the caramel sauce over the layer and spread evenly.

Step 5:

Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture over the caramel layer, pressing it down gently to form the top layer.

Step 6:

Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the top is golden and the caramel bubbles around the edges.

Step 7:

Let the caramelitas cool completely before cutting into squares and serving.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serve these caramelitas at room temperature or slightly warmed for the ultimate gooey texture.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to a week, or refrigerate for longer shelf life.

Helpful Notes

• Chilling the caramelitas before cutting helps them hold their shape better, especially if you want neat squares.
• If you prefer a saltier contrast, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the caramel layer before adding the top oat crust.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

• Chef Baker suggests using dark chocolate chips for a richer, less sweet variation of this classic dessert.

A Layered Delight

Caramelitas are a layered masterpiece of buttery oats, sweet caramel, and rich chocolate. The texture of the oats combines beautifully with the smooth caramel and chocolate for a satisfying treat that will please any crowd. Whether you serve them for dessert or as an afternoon snack, these bars are sure to disappear quickly!

Perfect for Any Occasion

With their rich layers and deliciously chewy texture, caramelitas are an ideal treat for any gathering. They are easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making them perfect for potlucks, holidays, or just a sweet indulgence at home. The combination of caramel and chocolate with the buttery oat crust will leave everyone reaching for seconds.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

Yes! Store-bought caramel sauce works great in this recipe, but you can also make your own if you prefer.

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

Yes, but the texture will be slightly softer. Old-fashioned oats provide a heartier texture to the bars.

How do I prevent the caramelitas from falling apart?

Let the bars cool completely before cutting them. You can also refrigerate them for a few hours to help them set.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, by using gluten-free oats and a gluten-free flour blend, you can easily adapt this recipe for gluten-free diets.

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Conclusion

Caramelitas are the ultimate indulgence, combining layers of chocolate, caramel, and a buttery oat crust into a rich, decadent dessert. The oat mixture serves as both the base and topping, with the middle layer featuring melted chocolate chips, gooey caramel sauce, and optional pecans for added crunch. The bars are baked until golden brown and the caramel is bubbly, resulting in a deliciously chewy and satisfying treat. Caramelitas are easy to make, yet impressive enough to serve at gatherings or enjoy as a special dessert. With their sweet, rich flavors and textures, they’re perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth.