If you’re searching for the perfect balance of chewy, gooey, and crunchy, look no further than these homemade Caramelitas Bars. Packed with rich melted caramel, layers of chocolate, and a buttery oatmeal cookie crust, this recipe is a dream for dessert lovers. Whether you need a decadent potluck treat, a bake sale hit, or a cozy dessert for family night, these easy caramel oatmeal bars deliver big flavor with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Buttery oatmeal crust with a rich, chewy texture
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Gooey caramel and melted chocolate in every bite
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Quick and easy recipe with pantry staples
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Crowd-pleasing dessert for any occasion
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Perfect for freezing and gifting
Ingredients Breakdown
Oat Crust & Topping:
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Rolled Oats (1 cup): Adds a chewy, hearty texture to the crust and topping.
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Melted Butter (¾ cup): Binds the oat mixture and creates a rich, tender crumb.
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All-Purpose Flour (1 cup): Provides structure for the base and top layer.
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Brown Sugar (¾ cup): Sweetens the bars and gives a hint of caramel flavor.
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Baking Soda (1 teaspoon): Helps the crust rise slightly and stay tender.
Caramel Filling:
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Soft Caramels (11 oz bag): The star of the recipe—melts into a gooey, sweet layer.
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Heavy Cream (½ cup): Thins and smooths the caramel, making it pourable and luscious.
Chocolate Layer:
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Chocolate Chips (1 cup): Melts into the bars for a rich, chocolatey middle.
Tips and Tricks
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Don’t skip the cooling step: Cutting too soon will cause the bars to fall apart
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Line your pan with parchment paper: Makes for easy lifting and clean edges
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Use high-quality chocolate chips or chunks for richer flavor
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Microwave the caramel sauce gently if it thickens before pouring
Variations and Customizations
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Swap semi-sweet chocolate for dark chocolate or white chocolate chips
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Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a nutty crunch
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Use gluten-free oats and flour to make it gluten-free
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Add a pinch of sea salt to the caramel for salted caramel bars
Serving and Pairing Ideas
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Pair with a glass of cold milk or hot coffee
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Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla or salted caramel ice cream
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Great addition to holiday cookie trays or dessert buffets
Storage Instructions
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Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
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Refrigerator: Extend freshness to 5–6 days
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Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months; thaw before serving
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Rolled oats are preferred for their chewy texture, but quick oats can be used in a pinch with slightly less texture.
What kind of caramels should I use?
Soft caramel candies (like Kraft or Werther’s Soft Caramels) work best for smooth melting.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Use a 9×13-inch pan and adjust the baking time by 5–10 extra minutes.
