Carmelitas

By:

Sarah

Published:

January 1, 2026

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Carmelitas are one of those delightful treats that just warm the heart. Imagine layers of buttery oats, gooey caramel, and rich chocolate melting together in perfect harmony. If you’re like me, the first bite whisks you away to cozy family gatherings and lazy Sunday afternoons, where comfort food reigns supreme. This treat is not only easy to whip up but also incredibly satisfying to eat—especially when enjoyed fresh out of the oven. With a simple list of ingredients, you can impress family and friends and even create new memories centered around these irresistible bars. So grab your baking pan, and let’s get started on creating a batch of Carmelitas that will surely bring smiles all around!

Why This Recipe Works

Carmelitas are the perfect blend of flavors and textures, showcasing a buttery oat crust that pairs beautifully with a gooey caramel center and rich chocolate. This recipe balances sweet and savory elements, ensuring each bite is a delightful experience. By using quality yet straightforward ingredients, you create a treat that’s not just good but irresistible for any occasion. You won’t be disappointed when you take that first bite!

Why You’ll Love This Carmelitas

These Carmelitas are not just delicious; they evoke a sense of nostalgia and warmth, reminding you of family gatherings and cozy nights in. The combination of warm caramel and melted chocolate brings comfort, making them a favorite for both kids and adults alike. Additionally, they are easy to make, and perfect for sharing. Whether enjoyed during a quiet moment or at a lively gathering, they can brighten any time of the day. What’s not to love?

Ingredients

3/4 cup butter, melted
3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats (not quick oats)
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt, divided
35-40 soft caramel candies, unwrapped
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Preparing Your Carmelitas

Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

First, preheat your oven to 350°F. While that’s heating up, line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang to make lifting out the bars easier later on. Lightly grease the paper with cooking spray, and set it aside. You’re one step closer to deliciousness!

Make the Dough Base

In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Do this in 20-30 second intervals, stirring well between each round until it’s smooth. Now, stir in the brown sugar and vanilla extract until it’s all combined. Next, add in the flour, oats, baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mix until a thick dough forms—this is going to be your wonderful crust!

Bake the Crust

Take half of the dough and press it evenly into your prepared baking pan. This will create a sturdy base for your Carmelitas. Bake it in the oven for about 10 minutes to set the crust, and you’ll start to smell that buttery goodness filling your kitchen.

Prepare the Caramel Sauce

While the crust is baking, let’s prepare the caramel sauce. In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the unwrapped soft caramel candies and heavy cream. Stir frequently until everything melts together, mixing until you have a smooth and luscious caramel sauce. Once melted, take it off the heat and stir in the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt.

Assemble the Carmelitas

When your crust is done baking, take it out of the oven and sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly over the hot crust. Now, pour that warm caramel sauce over the chocolate chips, ensuring even coverage. Finally, crumble the remaining oat dough mixture on top of the caramel, spreading it out as evenly as you can.

Final Bake

Place the pan back in the oven and bake for an additional 15-18 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are lightly browned and the center looks nice and bubbly. Your mouth is going to water!

Cool and Slice

Once the baking time is up, allow the Carmelitas to cool completely at room temperature for at least 4 hours. This wait may be hard, but it’s worth it for that perfect slice. After they cool, lift them out of the pan using the parchment overhang and cut into squares. For cleaner slices, chill in the refrigerator for a bit before cutting. Now, it’s time to enjoy this decadent treat!

Serving Suggestions

For an extra special treat, serve these Carmelitas warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side or drizzle with some extra caramel sauce. With every bite, you’ll find a touch of indulgence that pairs perfectly with that creamy ice cream.

Tips for Success

Make sure the butter is fully melted and well combined with the sugars for that smooth dough texture you want.
Don’t rush the cooling process; letting them set properly ensures a perfect slice that won’t crumble.

Variations

Want a little crunch? Try adding nuts like pecans or walnuts for a delightful texture.
If you love rich flavors, substitute dark chocolate chips in place of semi-sweet. It’s a great way to elevate this dessert!

Storage Tips

If by chance you have leftovers, store the Carmelitas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also refrigerate them for even longer freshness. They’ll still taste amazing!

Pairing Ideas

These Carmelitas pair beautifully with a refreshing glass of cold milk, a toasty cup of hot coffee, or even a relaxing herbal tea. You’ve got great options for a cozy afternoon treat.

FAQs

Can I make Carmelitas ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make Carmelitas a day in advance and store them tightly covered to maintain freshness.

What can I substitute for the caramel candies?
If you’re feeling adventurous, use homemade caramel or dulce de leche instead. Just remember to adjust the consistency with a bit of cream if needed.

Are Carmelitas gluten-free?
For gluten-free Carmelitas, simply swap out the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, and you’re good to go!

Can I freeze Carmelitas?
Yes! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing to maintain their freshness.

How do I best reheat Carmelitas?
You can reheat them for a few seconds in the microwave or warm them in an oven preheated to 350°F. This will help restore that gooey texture.

These Carmelitas are more than just bars; they’re a comforting hug on a plate—a sweet escape from the everyday hustle and bustle. With their buttery oat crust, luscious caramel layer, and a sprinkle of chocolate, they truly create a moment of joy in every bite. Perfect for both gatherings and simple comforts at home, they remind us that the sweetest things in life are often the simplest to create. So, celebrate these delightful confections and share them with loved ones—you’ll definitely find everyone coming back for seconds!

Carmelitas

Why This Recipe Works

Why You’ll Love This Carmelitas

Ingredients