Imagine sinking your teeth into a decadent dessert that combines the rich, gooey goodness of caramel, the smooth melting chocolate, and a perfectly crisp oatmeal base. These Thick Chewy Carmelita Bars are not just a dessert – they're a culinary experience that will transport you to dessert heaven with every single bite. Whether you're a baking enthusiast or a sweet treat lover, this recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 cup caramel sauce
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal of the bars.
- In a large mixing bowl, melt the unsalted butter. You can do this in the microwave or in a saucepan over low heat. Allow it to cool slightly after melting.
- Add the brown sugar to the melted butter and mix well until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, baking soda, and salt. Stir these dry ingredients together until evenly mixed.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter and sugar mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Fold in the chocolate chips gently, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Press half of the dough mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Use your hands or a spatula to spread it evenly across the bottom.
- Drizzle half of the caramel sauce over the pressed dough layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula or the back of a spoon.
- Take the remaining dough mixture and crumble it over the caramel layer. Do not press it down; just sprinkle it evenly to create a crumbly topping.
- Drizzle the remaining caramel sauce over the top of the crumbled dough, ensuring it covers as much of the surface as possible.
- Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
- Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, cut into 12 bars. Serve and enjoy your delicious Thick Chewy Carmelita Bars!
Tips
- Use room temperature butter for easier mixing and a smoother dough consistency.
- Don't overmix the dough – this can make your bars tough instead of chewy.
- For extra richness, use high-quality chocolate chips and caramel sauce.
- Line your baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal and clean cutting.
- Let the bars cool completely before cutting to ensure they hold their shape.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for extended freshness.
- For a gourmet touch, sprinkle a little sea salt on top before serving to enhance the caramel and chocolate flavors.
- If the edges are browning too quickly, cover the pan loosely with aluminum foil during baking.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 45mg
