If there’s one dessert that can make you feel warm and cozy with every bite, it’s Easy Carmelitas Bars. Imagine layers of gooey caramel, melted chocolate, and buttery oat crumble coming together in a bar that’s rich, sweet, and completely irresistible. These bars are the ultimate treat for caramel lovers, and the best part? They’re surprisingly easy to make.

The first time I made Carmelitas, I was hooked. The combination of textures—the soft caramel, creamy chocolate, and crunchy oats—feels indulgent without being overwhelming. It’s the kind of dessert that turns ordinary moments into something special.

What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just treating yourself, Carmelitas Bars are guaranteed to impress. Let’s bake some!

Easy Carmelitas Bars feature layers of gooey caramel, melted chocolate chips, and a buttery oat crumble crust. These rich and indulgent bars are simple to make and perfect for parties, gifting, or a sweet indulgence at home.

An Exciting Story

The first time I served these Easy Carmelitas Bars was at a holiday potluck, and they were gone in minutes. My husband loved their rich, caramel flavor, and the kids couldn’t get enough of the gooey chocolate layer. Now, they’re a must-make for any special occasion or just because!

Why These Easy Carmelitas Bars?

• Rich and Indulgent: A perfect balance of buttery, sweet, and gooey.
• Simple Ingredients: Pantry staples come together beautifully.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike.
• Customizable: Add nuts, toffee bits, or different chocolates.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for holidays, potlucks, or everyday snacking.

What You Need for Easy Carmelitas Bars

• For the Crust and Topping:
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup old-fashioned oats
  • ¾ cup packed brown sugar
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted
• For the Filling:
  • 1 cup semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips
  • 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 3 tbsp heavy cream

How to Make Easy Carmelitas Bars

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
2. Make the Crust and Topping:
   • In a large bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt. Stir in the melted butter until evenly combined and crumbly.
3. Assemble the First Layer:
   • Press half of the oat mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 10 minutes, or until lightly golden.
4. Prepare the Filling:
   • In a small saucepan, heat the caramel sauce and heavy cream over low heat, stirring until smooth and combined.
5. Add the Filling and Toppings:
   • Remove the crust from the oven and sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the warm crust. Pour the caramel mixture over the chocolate chips, spreading it gently. Crumble the remaining oat mixture on top.
6. Bake:
   • Return the pan to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown.
7. Cool and Slice:
   • Let the bars cool completely in the pan. For best results, refrigerate for 1-2 hours before slicing into squares.

Tips for Easy Carmelitas Bars

1. Line the Pan: Use parchment paper for easy removal and clean slicing.
2. Let Them Cool: Patience is key—cooling ensures the layers set properly.

Substitutions and Variations

• Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the topping for extra crunch.
• Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil instead of butter and coconut cream for the caramel.
• Salted Caramel: Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the caramel layer for a salted caramel version.
• Dark Chocolate: Use dark chocolate chips for a less sweet option.

Make a Healthier Version

• Replace some of the flour with almond flour for a nutty flavor and added nutrients.
• Use coconut sugar instead of brown sugar.
• Choose dark chocolate chips with at least 70% cocoa for less sugar.

Closing for Easy Carmelitas Bars:

And there you have it—Easy Carmelitas Bars, the perfect combination of caramel, chocolate, and buttery oat goodness. Whether you’re making them for a party or just treating yourself, these bars are guaranteed to impress. Let us know how yours turn out, and don’t forget to explore more of our indulgent dessert recipes!

Frequently Asked Questions for Easy Carmelitas Bars

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, they can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Can I freeze Carmelitas Bars?
Yes, freeze the cooled bars in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

What’s the best caramel to use?
Use high-quality store-bought caramel sauce or make your own for the best flavor.

How do I keep the layers from mixing?
Cool the crust slightly before adding the caramel and chocolate layers.

Can I use quick oats?
Old-fashioned oats work best for texture, but quick oats can be used in a pinch.

What can I serve with these bars?
Enjoy them on their own, or pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, bake in a 9×13-inch pan and adjust baking time slightly.

Why are my bars too crumbly?
Make sure the oat mixture is well-combined and press it firmly into the pan.

What’s a fun serving idea?
Drizzle melted chocolate or caramel sauce over the top of the sliced bars for an extra touch of elegance.

Can I add other mix-ins?
Yes! Try adding toffee bits, coconut flakes, or dried fruit for extra flavor.

Do they need to be refrigerated?
They don’t have to be, but refrigerating makes them easier to slice and gives the caramel a firmer texture.

Easy Carmelitas Bars Recipe

Recipe by CutsfoodCourse: Cake, Chocolate, Christmas, Dessert, Snacks

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

• For the Crust and Topping:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 cup old-fashioned oats

• ¾ cup packed brown sugar

• ½ tsp baking soda

• ¼ tsp salt

• ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted

• For the Filling:

• 1 cup semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips

• 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

• 3 tbsp heavy cream

Directions

• Prepare the Oven and Pan:
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
• Make the Crust and Topping:
• In a large bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt. Stir in the melted butter until evenly combined and crumbly.
• Assemble the First Layer:
• Press half of the oat mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 10 minutes, or until lightly golden.
• Prepare the Filling:
• In a small saucepan, heat the caramel sauce and heavy cream over low heat, stirring until smooth and combined.
• Add the Filling and Toppings:
• Remove the crust from the oven and sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the warm crust. Pour the caramel mixture over the chocolate chips, spreading it gently. Crumble the remaining oat mixture on top.
• Bake:
• Return the pan to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown.
• Cool and Slice:
• Let the bars cool completely in the pan. For best results, refrigerate for 1-2 hours before slicing into squares.