Caramelitas

Caramelitas are a rich and indulgent dessert bar that combines the flavors of chocolate, caramel, and oats in a buttery crust. They are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and impressing your friends and family. Here’s how to make them:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup All-Purpose Flour
• 1 cup Old-Fashioned Oats
• 3/4 cup Brown Sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon Baking Soda
• 1/4 teaspoon Salt
• 3/4 cup Melted Butter
• 1 cup Chocolate Chips
• 1 cup Baking Caramels (about 40 caramels, unwrapped)
• 1/2 cup Heavy Cream

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Caramel Sauce

1. Unwrap the Caramels: Unwrap the baking caramels and place them in a small saucepan.
2. Melt the Caramels: Add the heavy cream to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring frequently, until the caramels are completely melted and the mixture is smooth. This will take about 10 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Oatmeal Crust and Topping

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, old-fashioned oats, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt. Mix well.
3. Add Butter: Pour the melted butter into the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well combined. The mixture should be crumbly.
4. Press the Crust: Take half of the oat mixture and press it evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Use the back of a spoon or your hands to press it down firmly.

Step 3: Assemble the Caramelitas

1. Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes until it starts to set.
2. Add Chocolate Chips: Remove the crust from the oven and sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the top.
3. Pour Caramel Sauce: Pour the melted caramel sauce evenly over the chocolate chips, spreading it gently with a spatula if necessary.
4. Add Remaining Oat Mixture: Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture over the caramel layer. Don’t worry if some of the caramel shows through.

Step 4: Bake and Cool

1. Bake Again: Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden brown.
2. Cool Completely: Remove from the oven and allow the caramelitas to cool completely in the baking dish. This will take about 2 hours. You can speed up the process by placing the dish in the refrigerator.

Step 5: Serve

1. Cut into Bars: Once the caramelitas are completely cool and set, cut them into squares or bars.
2. Serve: Enjoy these decadent caramelitas as a dessert or a sweet treat. They are delicious on their own or served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Tips for Perfect Caramelitas:

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, use high-quality chocolate chips and real butter.
• Even Layers: Make sure to press the oat mixture firmly and evenly into the baking dish for a uniform crust.
• Melting Caramels: Stir the caramels constantly while melting to prevent burning and ensure a smooth sauce.
• Cooling Time: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to ensure they hold their shape.

Variations:

• Nutty Caramelitas: Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts) to the oat mixture for extra crunch and flavor.
• Salted Caramelitas: Sprinkle a little sea salt over the caramel layer before adding the top oat mixture for a sweet and salty twist.
• Dulce de Leche Caramelitas: Substitute the baking caramels and heavy cream with dulce de leche for a different caramel flavor.

Caramelitas are a rich and delicious dessert that combines the best flavors of caramel, chocolate, and oats in a buttery crust. This recipe is easy to follow and results in a treat that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for a party, a potluck, or just to enjoy at home, these caramelitas are sure to be a hit. Try making them today and indulge in their gooey, sweet goodness!