Oatmeal Carmelitas Recipe

Flour: The base for the crust and topping, providing structure and texture.

Oats: Quick-cooking oats add a chewy texture and wholesome flavor.

Brown sugar: Adds sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor.

Baking soda: Helps the crust rise slightly, giving it a light texture.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

Butter: Melted butter binds the dry ingredients together and adds richness.

Caramel ice cream topping: Provides a gooey, sweet layer in the middle of the bars.

Chocolate chips: Semi-sweet chocolate chips add a rich, chocolatey flavor.

Chopped nuts: Optional, but they add a nice crunch and additional flavor.

When preparing the caramel mixture, ensure it is evenly spread over the baked crust to avoid any uneven sweetness. To achieve this, use a spatula to gently and consistently distribute the caramel topping. This will help create a uniform layer that enhances the overall texture and flavor of the Oatmeal Carmelitas.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Adds a nutty flavor and increases fiber content.

• quick-cooking oats - Substitute with old-fashioned oats: Provides a chewier texture and similar nutritional benefits.

• brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Offers a lower glycemic index and a slight caramel flavor.

• baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: Use three times the amount to achieve a similar leavening effect.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Provides a more complex flavor profile.

• butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Adds a subtle coconut flavor and is dairy-free.

• caramel ice cream topping - Substitute with homemade caramel sauce: Allows control over ingredients and sweetness level.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Acts as a thickening agent with a neutral flavor.

• semi-sweet chocolate chips - Substitute with dark chocolate chunks: Provides a richer chocolate flavor and higher antioxidant content.

• chopped nuts - Substitute with seeds (e.g., sunflower or pumpkin seeds): Offers a nut-free alternative with a similar crunch.

• Allow your Oatmeal Carmelitas to cool completely before storing. This ensures they maintain their structure and don't become soggy.

• For short-term storage, place the bars in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer them chilled, store them in the refrigerator for up to a week.

• To freeze, first cut the Oatmeal Carmelitas into individual bars. This makes it easier to grab a single serving whenever you crave a sweet treat.

• Wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap. This helps prevent freezer burn and keeps the dessert fresh.

• Place the wrapped bars in a resealable freezer bag or an airtight container. Label the bag or container with the date to keep track of their freshness.

• Store the Oatmeal Carmelitas in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator.

• For a quick treat, you can also microwave a frozen bar for about 20-30 seconds. This will give you a warm, gooey dessert in no time.

• If you prefer a crispier texture, reheat the thawed bars in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes. This will refresh the oat mixture and make the chocolate chips melty again.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the Oatmeal Carmelitas on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with aluminum foil. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are warmed through. This method helps retain the crunchy texture of the oat topping while ensuring the caramel and chocolate layers are gooey and delicious.

• For a quicker option, use the microwave. Place a piece of Oatmeal Carmelitas on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat, as the caramel can become too hot and the oat crust might lose its crunch.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 320°F (160°C). Place the Oatmeal Carmelitas in the basket in a single layer. Heat for 3-5 minutes, checking frequently to ensure they don't overcook. This method helps maintain the crispiness of the oat topping while warming the caramel and chocolate layers evenly.

• For a stovetop method, use a non-stick skillet over low heat. Place the Oatmeal Carmelitas in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method is great for achieving a slightly toasted flavor while warming the caramel and chocolate layers.

• Oven: Preheat and bake the carmelitas to ensure they are cooked evenly.

• Baking dish: Use a 9x13 inch dish to shape and bake the carmelitas.

• Mixing bowl: Combine the dry ingredients and melted butter to create the base and topping mixture.

• Spatula: Spread the caramel mixture evenly over the baked crust.

• Measuring cups: Accurately measure the flour, oats, brown sugar, and caramel topping.

• Measuring spoons: Measure the baking soda, salt, and additional flour for the caramel mixture.

• Small bowl: Mix the caramel topping with flour to create a thickened caramel layer.

• Knife: Cut the cooled carmelitas into bars.

• Cooling rack: Allow the carmelitas to cool properly before cutting.

Prepare ingredients ahead: Measure and mix dry ingredients like flour, oats, and brown sugar in advance to save time.

Use pre-made caramel: Opt for store-bought caramel topping instead of making it from scratch.

Melt butter quickly: Use a microwave to melt the butter in short bursts to speed up the process.

Line the baking dish: Use parchment paper to line the baking dish for easy cleanup and quick removal of bars.

Cool faster: Place the baked carmelitas in the fridge to cool them down quickly before cutting.