Perfect Carmelitas
These Carmelitas are a deliciously chewy dessert bar with layers of oatmeal crust, melted caramel, and chocolate chips. Made with Kraft caramels and evaporated milk, they’re the perfect balance of sweet and salty with a rich, gooey filling. Easy to make and even easier to love, these bars are a crowd-pleasing treat for any occasion!
Equipment
- 9x13" Baking pan
Ingredients
- 1½ cup brown sugar lightly packed
- 2 cups flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1½ C butter cubed
- 64 caramels unwrapped
- 1 C evaporated milk (CUP - not the whole can)
- 2 C chocolate chips
- 1 cup walnuts chopped
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Set to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9x13” baking dish with cooking spray or line with parchment paper.
- Mix crust: In a large bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, baking soda, salt, and oats. Cut in butter until it's about pea-sized.
- Press and bake: Press half the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes.
- Prepare filling: While the crust bakes, place the caramels and the evaporated milk in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on low power for 3½ minutes. Stir and repeat until the caramels are melted into a smooth sauce.
- Layer and bake again: Remove the crust from the oven. Sprinkle chocolate chips and walnuts (if using) over the crust. Drizzle the caramel mixture evenly over the top. Crumble the remaining oat mixture over the caramel layer.
- Final bake: Bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown.
- Cool and slice: Let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing. This helps the caramel set.
Notes
- Caramels: Use Kraft individually wrapped caramels for the best texture. Be sure to unwrap them all before starting!
- Evaporated Milk Substitute: If you’re out of evaporated milk, try using heavy cream instead for a similar consistency.
- Nuts: Walnuts or pecans are optional but add a great crunch. Feel free to leave them out if you prefer nut-free bars.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Freezing: Carmelitas freeze beautifully! Wrap individual squares tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
- Cutting Tip: Chill the bars before slicing to get clean layers and prevent the caramel from sticking to the knife.
Nutrition
Serving: 1barCalories: 318kcalCarbohydrates: 39gProtein: 3gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0.4gCholesterol: 28mgSodium: 212mgPotassium: 144mgFiber: 0.5gSugar: 29gVitamin A: 313IUVitamin C: 0.3mgCalcium: 74mgIron: 1mg
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