Oatmeal Carmelitas are a delicious, gooey dessert bar made with layers of oatmeal, chocolate chips, and caramel. These sweet treats are easy to make and perfect for sharing with family and friends.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 3/4 cup caramel sauce (or caramel bits)
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt.
3. Stir in the melted butter and vanilla extract until everything is evenly mixed. The mixture will be crumbly.
4. Press half of the oatmeal mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form a crust.
5. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven.
6. Sprinkle chocolate chips and caramel sauce evenly over the baked crust. Optionally, add chopped nuts.
7. Crumble the remaining oatmeal mixture over the top and return the pan to the oven.
8. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
9. Allow to cool completely before cutting into squares.

Nutritional Information 

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 22g
• Protein: 2g

History of Oatmeal Carmelitas

Oatmeal Carmelitas have a storied past, originating from the creative kitchens of home bakers seeking to combine the rich flavors of caramel, chocolate, and oats into a single, delectable treat. The recipe gained widespread recognition when it was submitted by Erlyce Larson from Kennedy, Minnesota, and won the 18th Pillsbury Bake-Off Contest in 1967. This accolade catapulted the dessert into the limelight, making it a beloved choice for generations.

Texture and Flavor Profile

The allure of Oatmeal Carmelitas lies in their harmonious blend of textures and flavors. The base and topping, crafted from a mixture of oats, flour, brown sugar, and butter, offer a crumbly and slightly chewy texture. Sandwiched between these layers is a gooey filling of melted caramel and chocolate chips, sometimes complemented by chopped nuts. This combination delivers a rich, buttery taste with the sweetness of caramel and the depth of chocolate, creating a multi-dimensional flavor experience.

Choice of Oats: Quick-Cooking vs. Old-Fashioned

The type of oats used can subtly influence the texture of Carmelitas. Quick-cooking oats are often preferred for their finer texture, resulting in a more cohesive and tender crust. However, old-fashioned rolled oats can be used for those who desire a heartier, chewier bite. It’s essential to avoid steel-cut oats, as their firm texture isn’t suitable for this dessert.

Caramel Filling: Homemade vs. Store-Bought

The caramel layer is pivotal to the indulgent nature of Carmelitas. While many recipes call for store-bought caramel ice cream topping for convenience, some bakers advocate for homemade caramel sauce to achieve a richer, more authentic flavor. Crafting caramel from scratch allows for control over sweetness and consistency, enhancing the overall quality of the bars.

Incorporating Nuts for Added Crunch

Adding nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, introduces a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the soft, gooey filling. Nuts not only enhance texture but also add depth to the flavor profile, making each bite more complex and satisfying. Toasting the nuts before incorporation can further intensify their flavor.

Chocolate Variations

While semisweet chocolate chips are traditional, experimenting with different types of chocolate can yield interesting results. Dark chocolate chips can offer a more intense cocoa flavor, balancing the sweetness of the caramel, whereas milk chocolate provides a creamier, sweeter taste. White chocolate chips can also be used for a unique twist, adding a hint of vanilla flavor.

Baking Tips for Perfect Carmelitas

Achieving the ideal texture requires careful attention during baking. It’s crucial not to overbake the bars; they should be removed from the oven when the caramel is just beginning to bubble around the edges. Overbaking can lead to a hard crust and overly firm filling, detracting from the desired gooey consistency.

Cooling and Cutting Techniques

Patience is key when it comes to cooling Carmelitas. Allowing the bars to cool completely, preferably refrigerating them for a few hours, ensures that the caramel sets properly, making them easier to cut into neat squares. Cutting too soon can result in a sticky mess, as the caramel may still be too fluid.

Storage Recommendations

Proper storage is essential to maintain the freshness and texture of Carmelitas. Once cooled and cut, they should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature, where they will remain fresh for up to a week. If stacking the bars, placing parchment paper between layers can prevent them from sticking together.

Freezing for Extended Shelf Life

For longer storage, Carmelitas can be frozen. Individually wrapping each bar in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe container helps preserve their quality. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

Serving Suggestions

Carmelitas are delightful on their own but can be elevated with simple accompaniments. Serving them slightly warmed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a decadent dessert reminiscent of a caramel sundae. Drizzling additional caramel or chocolate sauce over the top can further enhance their indulgence.

Adapting for Dietary Restrictions

For those with dietary restrictions, modifications can be made to accommodate various needs. Gluten-free flour blends can replace all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version, ensuring the oats used are certified gluten-free. Dairy-free butter substitutes and dairy-free chocolate chips can be used for a lactose-free alternative.

Incorporating Whole Grains for a Healthier Twist

To add a nutritional boost, whole wheat flour can partially or fully replace all-purpose flour. This substitution increases fiber content and imparts a nuttier flavor to the crust. However, it’s essential to note that using whole wheat flour may result in a denser texture.

Experimenting with Add-Ins

Beyond nuts and chocolate, other add-ins can personalize Carmelitas. Dried fruits like cranberries or cherries can introduce a tart contrast to the sweet caramel. Shredded coconut can add a tropical flair and additional texture. Spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg can be incorporated into the oat mixture for a warm, aromatic twist.

Presentation Ideas for Special Occasions

For festive occasions, Carmelitas can be dressed up to impress. Dusting the tops with powdered sugar, drizzling with decorative chocolate patterns, or cutting them into fun shapes using cookie cutters can enhance their visual appeal. They make excellent additions to dessert trays and are perfect for gifting during holidays.

Making Mini Carmelitas

To create bite-sized versions, the recipe can be adapted for use in mini muffin tins or small baking pans. These mini Carmelitas are perfect for parties, buffets, or snack boxes. Adjusting the baking time is necessary to prevent overcooking these smaller portions.

Pairing Beverages with Carmelitas

Carmelitas pair wonderfully with a range of beverages. Coffee, especially dark roast or espresso, complements the caramel and chocolate flavors. Hot chocolate can enhance the dessert’s richness, while milk offers a classic, kid-friendly combination. Even dessert wines or port can be paired for a more sophisticated experience.

Making a Vegan Version

Creating a vegan version of Carmelitas is entirely possible with plant-based swaps. Vegan butter, coconut oil, or margarine can replace dairy butter. Dairy-free chocolate chips and coconut milk caramel can substitute for traditional ingredients, allowing those following a vegan diet to enjoy the treat fully.

Customizing Sweetness Levels

For those who prefer less sweet desserts, the sugar in the oat mixture can be slightly reduced without compromising the texture. Choosing darker chocolate or using unsweetened caramel sauces can also tone down the overall sweetness while still maintaining balance in flavor.

Carmelitas as a Holiday Tradition

Oatmeal Carmelitas have become a staple in many households during holidays and special gatherings. Their rich, comforting flavor makes them a favorite during colder months, especially when shared with loved ones. Baking these bars as a family activity can become a cherished holiday tradition.

Conclusion

Oatmeal Carmelitas are more than just a dessert—they’re a timeless treat that brings together simplicity, indulgence, and nostalgia. With endless customization options, they appeal to both traditionalists and adventurous bakers alike. Whether you’re baking them for a quiet afternoon snack or a festive celebration, Carmelitas consistently deliver on taste and texture, making them a recipe worth keeping in every kitchen.