Name: Easy Carmelitas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-490139H38M49S
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup old-fashioned oats; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 2/3 cup brown sugar; 1/4 tsp salt; 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 35-40 caramel candies or 1 cup caramel bits; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Why You’ll Love Easy Carmelitas Recipe

These Easy Carmelitas are the ultimate comfort dessert. They require no special equipment, no mixer, and very little hands-on time. With a buttery oatmeal crust, a generous layer of melted chocolate, and sweet caramel oozing through every layer, they offer everything you love about decadent baking without the hassle. This recipe is also incredibly versatile—you can switch up ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Old-fashioned oats
Baking soda
Brown sugar
Salt
Unsalted butter (melted)
Caramel candies or caramel bits
Heavy cream
Semi-sweet chocolate chips

Directions

Preheat your oven and line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
In a large bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt.
Stir in the melted butter until the mixture is crumbly and fully moistened.
Press half of the oat mixture into the bottom of the baking dish to form the crust.
Bake for about 10 minutes until lightly golden.
While the crust is baking, melt the caramel candies and heavy cream together until smooth.
Remove the crust from the oven and sprinkle chocolate chips evenly over the top.
Pour the melted caramel over the chocolate chips.
Crumble the remaining oat mixture over the caramel layer.
Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.
Allow the Carmelitas to cool completely before slicing to allow the layers to set.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 16 bars.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25–30 minutes
Cooling time: 2 hours (to fully set)

Variations

Nutty Version: Add chopped pecans or walnuts between the chocolate and caramel layers for a crunchy bite.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend and certified gluten-free oats.
Salted Caramel: Sprinkle a bit of flaky sea salt on top before baking for a sweet-salty contrast.
Different Chips: Substitute milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even butterscotch chips to change the flavor profile.
Add Coconut: Shredded coconut adds a tropical touch and chewy texture.
Vegan Option: Use dairy-free butter, vegan caramel, and plant-based chocolate chips.

Storage/Reheating

Store Carmelitas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze them in layers separated by parchment paper for up to 2 months. To reheat, microwave individual bars for 10–15 seconds if you prefer them warm and gooey.

FAQs

What are Carmelitas made of?

Carmelitas are dessert bars made with a base of oats and brown sugar, layered with chocolate chips and melted caramel, then topped with more oat crumble.

Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?

Yes, quick oats can be used, but the texture will be slightly softer and less chewy than using old-fashioned oats.

What type of caramel should I use?

You can use caramel candies melted with cream or store-bought caramel sauce. Just make sure it’s thick and rich to hold its shape between the layers.

Do I need to refrigerate Carmelitas?

Refrigeration isn’t necessary, but it helps the bars set faster and makes slicing easier. They can be stored at room temperature if your kitchen isn’t too warm.

Can I freeze Carmelitas?

Yes, Carmelitas freeze very well. Wrap tightly or store in an airtight container with parchment between layers for up to 2 months.

How do I keep the layers from mixing together?

Let the crust cool slightly before adding the chocolate and caramel layers. This helps keep the structure more defined.

Can I make Carmelitas ahead of time?

Absolutely. They’re even better the next day once the flavors have melded and the bars have had time to set.

Why did my Carmelitas fall apart?

If the bars are too warm when cut, they may fall apart. Let them cool completely—preferably for a few hours or overnight—before slicing.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger baking pan (like a 9×13) and adjust the baking time slightly to ensure everything cooks evenly.

Are Carmelitas overly sweet?

They are quite rich and sweet due to the caramel and chocolate. Using semi-sweet or dark chocolate helps balance the sweetness.

Conclusion

Easy Carmelitas are everything you want in a dessert: chewy, gooey, buttery, and chocolatey. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, they’re perfect for both casual snacking and special occasions. Whether you serve them warm or chilled, these bars are sure to disappear fast—so don’t be surprised if you’re asked to make them again and again.