Chocolate caramel oatmeal bars are the ultimate dessert indulgence. These delightful cookie bars, also known as carmelitas, boast a chewy oatmeal crust layered with luscious caramel and rich chocolate chips. Whether you’re craving a sweet treat after dinner or need a show-stopping dessert for a gathering, these bars offer the perfect blend of texture and taste. The buttery oatmeal base, gooey caramel center, and melty chocolate make every bite irresistible. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make with minimal prep time. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this decadent, crowd-pleasing dessert!
Why You’ll Love These Chocolate Caramel Oatmeal Bars
These chocolate caramel oatmeal bars hit all the right dessert notes. The comforting taste of oatmeal cookies meets the indulgent richness of caramel and chocolate. They’re perfect for potlucks, holiday trays, or simply treating yourself. Plus, the layered structure makes them visually appealing and delicious in every bite. With just a few pantry staples and simple steps, you’ll have a homemade treat that feels bakery-quality without the hassle.
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter (softened, 1 1/2 sticks)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 35 soft caramels (unwrapped, such as Werther’s)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
Step-by-Step: How to Make Chocolate Caramel Oatmeal Bars
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line an 8×8 or 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper or foil, allowing it to hang over the sides for easy removal. Spray with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix the brown sugar, softened butter, and vanilla extract until the ingredients are fully blended and smooth.
- Create the Base Layer: Press half of the cookie dough mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan. Set the remaining dough aside.
- Initial Bake: Bake the bottom crust for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven.
- Prepare the Caramel Sauce: Combine the unwrapped caramels and heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the mixture is silky and fully melted.
- Add Chocolate and Caramel: Sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the baked crust. Pour the melted caramel mixture over the top, spreading it gently to cover.
- Top with Remaining Dough: Flatten pieces of the remaining cookie dough between your hands and place them over the caramel layer, covering as much as possible.
- Final Bake: Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 14 to 16 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden.
- Cool and Set: Let the bars cool completely in the pan. This will take 3 to 4 hours at room temperature, or speed up the process by chilling the pan in the fridge after it’s cooled to the touch.
Helpful Tips
- Use parchment paper for easy removal and clean-up.
- Soften butter by leaving it out at room temperature rather than microwaving.
- Check doneness by looking for lightly golden edges on the final bake.
- Chill before cutting to get cleaner, more defined layers.
- Use quality chocolate chips for the best flavor and melt.
Substitutions And Variations
- Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter and dairy-free chocolate chips. Substitute coconut cream for heavy cream.
- Add Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the chocolate layer for added crunch.
- Different Caramels: Try homemade caramel sauce instead of store-bought soft caramels.
- Use Quick Oats: If you don’t have old-fashioned oats, quick oats can be used for a slightly softer texture.
- Chocolate Swap: Use white chocolate chips or peanut butter chips for a twist.
Storage Instructions
Store the chocolate caramel oatmeal bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For extended freshness, keep them in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can also freeze the bars for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to serve, let them thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature until soft.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (1 of 12):
- Calories: ~320
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Sugar: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
(Please note: These nutritional details are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients you use.)
Serving Suggestions
These bars are delicious on their own, but you can take them to the next level with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. Serve slightly warm for a gooey, indulgent dessert. They also pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or cozy nights at home.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chocolate Caramel Oatmeal Bars
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of melting caramels?
Yes, store-bought caramel sauce works in a pinch, but make sure it’s thick enough to hold between the layers without soaking through.
Why do I need to chill the bars before cutting?
Chilling allows the caramel to set, making it easier to slice the bars cleanly and maintain their layered structure.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Double all the ingredients and bake in a 9×13 inch pan. You may need to add a few minutes to the baking time.
Do I have to use old-fashioned oats?
Old-fashioned oats give the best chewy texture, but quick oats can be substituted for a softer finish.
How long do these bars stay fresh?
They stay fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature, up to a week in the fridge, or 2 months in the freezer.
Final Thoughts
I truly appreciate you taking the time to visit and try out this chocolate caramel oatmeal bars recipe. These sweet treats have become a beloved staple in my home, and I hope they bring the same joy to yours. They’re incredibly simple to make yet bursting with flavor and texture. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or indulging solo, enjoy every delicious bite. Thank you for being a part of this food-loving community. Happy baking!
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Chocolate Caramel Oatmeal Bars
- Total Time: 4 hours 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Chocolate Caramel Oatmeal Bars are the ultimate cookie bars with a chewy oatmeal base, rich chocolate chips, and gooey caramel filling. Perfect for dessert tables, parties, or a cozy night in. Make a batch today and wow your crowd!
Ingredients
3/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
3/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
1 tbsp vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup old-fashioned oats
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup chocolate chips
35 soft caramels (unwrapped)
1/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line an 8×8 or 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper or foil, allowing it to hang over the sides for easy removal. Spray with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix the brown sugar, softened butter, and vanilla extract until the ingredients are fully blended and smooth.
- Create the Base Layer: Press half of the cookie dough mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan. Set the remaining dough aside.
- Initial Bake: Bake the bottom crust for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven.
- Prepare the Caramel Sauce: Combine the unwrapped caramels and heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the mixture is silky and fully melted.
- Add Chocolate and Caramel: Sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the baked crust. Pour the melted caramel mixture over the top, spreading it gently to cover.
- Top with Remaining Dough: Flatten pieces of the remaining cookie dough between your hands and place them over the caramel layer, covering as much as possible.
- Final Bake: Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 14 to 16 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden.
- Cool and Set: Let the bars cool completely in the pan. This will take 3 to 4 hours at room temperature, or speed up the process by chilling the pan in the fridge after it’s cooled to the touch.
Notes
Use parchment for easier lifting and clean edges.
Chill before slicing to keep layers neat.
Store in an airtight container at room temp, fridge, or freezer.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes Chilling Time: 4 hours
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Protein: 2g