Carmelitas
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Experience the delightful fusion of rich caramel, gooey chocolate, and crunchy oats with these irresistible Carmelitas. Perfectly layered for a sweet treat that satisfies every craving, they make a wonderful dessert for gatherings or a cozy night in. Easy to make and utterly delicious, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
The story behind Carmelitas is as sweet as the treat itself. Originating from family kitchens, these layered cookies bring together the comforting tastes of homemade desserts with a touch of indulgence.
Decadent Layers of Flavor
Carmelitas are a delightful blend of textures and flavors that you won't be able to resist. The combination of chewy oats, creamy caramel, and rich chocolate creates a satisfying treat that feels indulgent yet comforting. Each bite offers a perfect harmony between the crunchiness of the oats and the gooey mess of the caramel, making these bars a true delight for your taste buds.
What sets Carmelitas apart from other desserts is their unique layering technique. By alternating layers of a crumbly oat mixture with luscious chocolate and caramel, every piece delivers a burst of flavor. They are not only visually appealing but also provide a fun eating experience as you discover all the delicious elements in each bite.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Carmelitas are incredibly versatile, making them suitable for any occasion. Whether it's a birthday party, holiday gathering, or a casual get-together with friends, these treats are sure to impress. Their easy preparation means you can whip them up quickly, leaving you more time to enjoy the company of your loved ones.
These bars also make a great addition to lunchboxes or after-school snacks, providing a sweet energy boost for kids and adults alike. Their individual portions are easy to transport, allowing you to share a taste of home wherever you go.
Baking Tips for Success
To ensure the best results, it's essential to use room-temperature butter, as it will mix more easily with the dry ingredients, creating that perfect crumbly texture. Remember to pack the brown sugar when measuring to achieve the right level of moisture and sweetness in your Carmelitas.
If you want to elevate the flavors even further, consider adding nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the caramel layer. These additions can enhance the overall taste and create an even more complex flavor profile, appealing to everyone’s palate.
Ingredients
Gather everything you need to make these delightful Carmelitas.
Carmelitas Ingredients
- 1 cup oats
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!
Steps
Follow these steps to create your Carmelitas.
Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking pan.
Mix Ingredients
In a bowl, combine oats, flour, sugars, and baking soda. Mix in the softened butter until crumbly.
Layer the Mixture
Press half of the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes.
Add The Fillings
Remove from oven, top with chocolate chips and caramel sauce. Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture on top.
Final Bake
Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool before cutting.
Cut into squares and enjoy your homemade Carmelitas!
Storage Tips
Carmelitas can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, but we doubt they’ll last that long! To keep them fresh, layer parchment paper between the bars to prevent sticking. If you want to make them ahead of time, consider freezing the unbaked base mixture and the filling separately. This allows you to bake them fresh whenever a craving strikes.
For longer storage, you can freeze baked Carmelitas. Cut them into squares and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a resealable freezer bag. They can last in the freezer for up to three months, ready to be enjoyed at a moment’s notice.
Variations to Try
Get creative with your Carmelitas by trying different types of chocolate. Dark chocolate provides a rich, deep flavor, while milk chocolate gives a sweeter taste. If you want to experiment further, white chocolate chips or even flavored chocolate can add a unique twist to your bars.
You can also mix in various toppings such as shredded coconut or crushed candies for added texture. For a spicier flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or even a bit of espresso powder to the oat mixture for a delicious coffee-infused treat.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use gluten-free oats?
Yes, gluten-free oats work well in this recipe.
→ How should I store Carmelitas?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Carmelitas
Experience the delightful fusion of rich caramel, gooey chocolate, and crunchy oats with these irresistible Carmelitas. Perfectly layered for a sweet treat that satisfies every craving, they make a wonderful dessert for gatherings or a cozy night in. Easy to make and utterly delicious, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
Created by: Paige Sullivan
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 12 servings
What You'll Need
Carmelitas Ingredients
- 1 cup oats
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking pan.
In a bowl, combine oats, flour, sugars, and baking soda. Mix in the softened butter until crumbly.
Press half of the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes.
Remove from oven, top with chocolate chips and caramel sauce. Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture on top.
Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool before cutting.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Total Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 100mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 15g
- Protein: 3g