Caramelitas Recipe: A Perfect Blend of Chocolate, Caramel, and Oats

Caramelitas Recipe: A Perfect Blend of Chocolate, Caramel, and Oats 🍫✨

Caramelitas are the ultimate indulgent dessert bar, combining buttery oats, gooey caramel, and rich chocolate for a heavenly treat. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, these bars deliver gourmet flavor with minimal effort, making them perfect for every occasion.

Why You’ll Love Caramelitas

1. Perfect Balance: The buttery oat base, luscious caramel, and rich chocolate create a symphony of flavors and textures.
2. Simple to Make: A straightforward recipe that’s easy for even novice bakers.
3. Versatile Treat: Great for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or just satisfying your sweet tooth.
4. Nostalgic Charm: A dessert that brings warmth, comfort, and memories of classic family baking.

Ingredients

For the Base and Topping:

• 1 cup (230 g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup (200 g) packed brown sugar (light or dark)
• 1 ½ cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups (120 g) old-fashioned oats
• 1 tsp baking soda

For the Filling:

• 1 cup (200 g) chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate)
• 1 bag (11 oz / 312 g) baking caramels, unwrapped
• ⅓ cup (80 ml) heavy cream

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Make the Caramel Filling

1. In a saucepan over low heat, melt the caramels with heavy cream, stirring constantly until smooth and silky.
2. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Create the Oat Mixture

1. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, flour, oats, and baking soda.
2. Mix until crumbly and well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Layers

1. Press half of the oat mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
2. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven.
3. Sprinkle chocolate chips over the baked crust, pour the caramel evenly over the top, and crumble the remaining oat mixture on top as the final layer.

Step 5: Bake and Cool

1. Return the dish to the oven and bake for 18–20 minutes, or until golden brown.
2. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing. For clean slices, refrigerate for 1–2 hours before cutting.

Storage Options

• Room Temperature: Store Caramelitas in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: Keep them in the fridge for up to a week, but bring them to room temperature before serving for optimal texture.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving or warm slightly for that fresh-baked feel.

Variations and Substitutions

1. Oat Texture: Use quick oats for a smoother texture.
2. Chocolate Choices: Swap semi-sweet for dark or white chocolate chips.
3. Caramel Alternative: If you’re out of heavy cream, use evaporated milk to melt the caramels.
4. Nutty Addition: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the oat mixture for a delightful crunch.
5. Salted Caramel: Sprinkle sea salt over the caramel layer for a sweet-and-salty twist.

Tips for Success

1. Cool Completely: Let the bars cool entirely before slicing to prevent the layers from falling apart.
2. Even Layering: Press the base firmly into the pan for a solid foundation.
3. Use Parchment Paper: Makes removing and slicing the bars easier and less messy.

FAQs

Q: Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of melting caramels?
A: Yes, but ensure it’s thick and not too runny to maintain the texture.

Q: How do I prevent the caramel from sticking to the knife while slicing?
A: Chill the bars first, then use a sharp knife coated with non-stick spray or butter for clean cuts.

Q: Can I make these gluten-free?
A: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend, and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free.

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