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Homemade Carmelita Bars (Gooey Oatmeal Caramel Chocolate Cookies!) photo

Carmelita Bars (Gooey Oatmeal Caramel Chocolate Cookies!)

Indulge in these gooey Carmelita Bars! A delicious blend of oats, caramel, and chocolate that will leave you craving more.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup unsalted butter melted
  • 1 cup old-fashioned oats
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 30 pieces soft caramels like Kraft caramels
  • 5 tablespoons heavy cream
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • 9x9-inch baking pan
  • Spatula
  • Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease a 9x9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt. Stir until well mixed.
  4. Pour the melted butter into the dry mixture. Stir until crumbly but well combined.
  5. Press about two-thirds of the oat mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
  6. In a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, combine the soft caramels and heavy cream. Heat gently until melted and smooth.
  7. Pour the melted caramel over the pressed oat base, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the chocolate chips over the caramel.
  8. Crumble the remaining oat mixture over the chocolate chips and caramel.
  9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
  10. Allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes, then cool completely on a wire rack before cutting into squares.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon to the dry mixture.
  • Do not overbake; the bars will continue to set as they cool.
  • Let the bars cool completely before cutting.
  • For an added touch, sprinkle sea salt on top of the caramel layer.