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
Buttery oatmeal crust with a rich, chewy texture
Gooey caramel and melted chocolate in every bite
Quick and easy recipe with pantry staples
Crowd-pleasing dessert for any occasion
Perfect for freezing and gifting
Ingredients Breakdown
Oat Crust & Topping:
Rolled Oats (1 cup): Adds a chewy, hearty texture to the crust and topping.
Melted Butter (¾ cup): Binds the oat mixture and creates a rich, tender crumb.
All-Purpose Flour (1 cup): Provides structure for the base and top layer.
Brown Sugar (¾ cup): Sweetens the bars and gives a hint of caramel flavor.
Baking Soda (1 teaspoon): Helps the crust rise slightly and stay tender.
Caramel Filling:
Soft Caramels (11 oz bag): The star of the recipe—melts into a gooey, sweet layer.
Heavy Cream (½ cup): Thins and smooths the caramel, making it pourable and luscious.
Chocolate Layer:
Chocolate Chips (1 cup): Melts into the bars for a rich, chocolatey middle.
Tips and Tricks
Don’t skip the cooling step: Cutting too soon will cause the bars to fall apart
Line your pan with parchment paper: Makes for easy lifting and clean edges
Use high-quality chocolate chips or chunks for richer flavor
Microwave the caramel sauce gently if it thickens before pouring
Variations and Customizations
Swap semi-sweet chocolate for dark chocolate or white chocolate chips
Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a nutty crunch
Use gluten-free oats and flour to make it gluten-free
Add a pinch of sea salt to the caramel for salted caramel bars
Serving and Pairing Ideas
Pair with a glass of cold milk or hot coffee
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla or salted caramel ice cream
Great addition to holiday cookie trays or dessert buffets
Storage Instructions
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
Refrigerator: Extend freshness to 5–6 days
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.
