Caramelitas Recipe

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Dish

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

Step 2: Make the Crust

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

Step 3: Bake the Crust & Assemble

1. Press half the oat mixture into the prepared dish. Bake for 10 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, combine caramel sauce and heavy cream in a saucepan over low heat. Stir until smooth and warm.
3. Remove crust from oven. Sprinkle with chocolate chips and nuts (if using).
4. Pour warm caramel mixture over the chocolate and nuts.

Step 4: Top and Bake

1. Crumble remaining oat mixture over the caramel.
2. Bake for 18-20 more minutes, until golden brown.
3. Cool completely in the dish, then refrigerate for 1-2 hours to set.

Step 5: Serve

1. Lift caramelitas from dish using parchment paper overhang.
2. Cut into bars and enjoy!

Tips & Notes

• Use a thick, rich caramel sauce – homemade or store-bought.
• Complete cooling is crucial for easy cutting and holding shape. Refrigeration helps.
• Nuts are optional but add a delicious crunch.

Variations

• Salted Caramelitas: Sprinkle sea salt over the caramel.
• Peanut Butter Caramelitas: Add 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter to the caramel.
• Chocolate Overload: Mix semi-sweet and milk chocolate chips, or add white chocolate.
• Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

FAQs

Can I Make These Ahead?

Yes! Make up to 2 days ahead. Store in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

How to Store Leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature (up to 5 days) or refrigerated (up to 1 week). Freeze for up to 3 months.

Can I Use Quick Oats?

Yes, but the texture will be slightly different. Rolled oats create a chewier bar.

Preventing Caramel from Sticking to the Knife?

Lightly spray your knife with cooking spray or warm it under hot water, then dry before cutting.

These easy-to-make caramelitas are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Enjoy the delicious combination of buttery oats, rich chocolate, and irresistible caramel.