Name: Irresistible Carmelitas for a Crowd Everyone Will Love
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Rolled Oats (Substitute with gluten-free oats for a gluten-sensitive option.); 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (Almond flour is a great gluten-free alternative.); 1 cup Brown Sugar (Use light brown sugar for a milder taste or darker sugar for depth.); 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (Opt for unsalted butter or try coconut oil for a dairy-free version.); 2 cups Chocolate Chips (Semi-sweet or milk chocolate can be swapped for different sweetness.); 1 cup Caramel Sauce (Ensure it's thick, whether homemade or store-bought.); 1 cup Nuts (Pecans or Walnuts) (Adds extra crunch and nutty flavor.); 1 cup Flavored Chocolate (Experiment with butterscotch or white chocolate chips.); 1/2 cup Peanut Butter (Layer in for a richer flavor profile.)

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In a delightful twist on comfort food, I stumbled upon the ultimate dessert that feels like a warm hug—Carmelitas for a Crowd! These delectable bars meld rich caramel, melted chocolate, and a crumbly oat base into a treat that’s simply irresistible. They’re easy to prepare, making them a go-to for novice bakers and seasoned chefs alike. Imagine your next gathering, where these chewy delights become the star of the show, charming everyone with their sweet-salty flavor profile. Not only do they satisfy your sweet tooth, but their crowd-pleasing nature ensures they disappear in no time. Ready to impress your friends and family while keeping it stress-free? Let’s dive into the recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why Are Carmelitas Everyone’s Favorite?

Irresistible, these Carmelitas are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining rich layers of gooey caramel and chocolate with a perfect cookie base. Easy to Make, this recipe is straightforward, making it ideal for both novices and experienced bakers. Versatile, you can customize them with nuts or flavored chocolate to match any occasion. Perfect for Sharing, they are great for tea parties or gatherings, sure to impress guests and spark joy. Don’t forget to pair them with a scoop of ice cream for an unforgettable treat that everyone, young and old, will love!

Carmelitas for a Crowd Ingredients

• Prepare to satisfy your sweet tooth with these Carmelitas for a Crowd!

For the Base

Oats – Provides a wholesome texture; substitute with gluten-free oats for a gluten-sensitive option.
All-Purpose Flour – Acts as the foundation for the cookie base; almond flour is a great gluten-free alternative.
Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and caramel flavor; use light brown sugar for a milder taste or darker sugar for depth.
Butter – Contributes richness and binds ingredients; opt for unsalted butter to manage salt levels, or try coconut oil for a dairy-free version.

For the Filling

Chocolate Chips – Infuses sweetness and chocolatey goodness; swap semi-sweet for milk chocolate for a less sweet indulgence.
Caramel Sauce – Creates the coveted gooey layer; ensure it’s thick, whether homemade or store-bought, to avoid a runny texture.

Optional Add-ins

Nuts (Pecans or Walnuts) – Adds an extra crunch and nutty flavor to your Carmelitas.
Flavored Chocolate – Experiment with butterscotch or white chocolate chips for a delightful twist.
Peanut Butter – Layer in peanut butter for an even richer flavor profile that complements the caramel perfectly.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Carmelitas for a Crowd

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to create the perfect baking environment for your Carmelitas. This crucial step ensures that your dessert bakes evenly, developing that lovely golden-brown color. As the oven warms up, you can prepare your baking dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. Using parchment paper allows for cleaner cuts when your Carmelitas are finished baking. Set the pan aside while you move on to mixing the base.

Step 3: Mix the Oat Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, all-purpose flour, and brown sugar. Melt some unsalted butter and pour it over the dry ingredients, stirring until the mixture becomes crumbly. Once mixed, press half of this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan, creating a solid base for your Carmelitas.

Step 4: Add Chocolate and Caramel Layer
Evenly sprinkle chocolate chips over the pressed oat mixture, ensuring every bite will be deliciously sweet. Next, drizzle thick caramel sauce generously across the chocolate layer, allowing it to seep into the oats. Finally, crumble the remaining oat mixture over the top, creating a covering that will hold the layers together.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the prepared pan in your preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Look for a lovely golden brown hue on top, signaling that your Carmelitas are done. The edges may brown a bit faster, so consider rotating the pan halfway through for even baking.

Step 6: Cool Before Slicing
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature. This cooling time helps the caramel set, making it easier to cut into neat squares. For even cleaner edges, you can chill the pan briefly in the refrigerator before slicing your delicious Carmelitas for a Crowd.

How to Store and Freeze Carmelitas

Airtight Container: Store leftover Carmelitas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to keep them fresh and chewy.

Refrigerator: For extended freshness, refrigerate Carmelitas for up to 2 weeks. Just be sure to cover them properly to maintain moisture.

Freezing: To freeze Carmelitas, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm them slightly in the microwave for a few seconds before serving to bring back that gooey texture.

Carmelitas for a Crowd Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to personalize these delightful Carmelitas, transforming them into your perfect treat with a few simple tweaks!

Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with almond flour and choose gluten-free oats for a suitable option.
Nutty Crunch: Add a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts to the oat mixture for an extra layer of flavor and crunch.
Flavored Chocolate: Swap out semi-sweet chocolate chips for butterscotch or white chocolate chips for a unique twist.
Peanut Butter Layer: For a richer taste, spread a layer of creamy peanut butter between the chocolate and caramel.
Maple Syrup Substitute: Use maple syrup in place of brown sugar for an earthy sweetness in both the base and filling.
Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of sea salt or cayenne pepper to the caramel layer for a surprising heat that complements the sweetness.
Minty Fresh: Incorporate mint extract into the chocolate layer for a refreshing and festive variation, perfect for gatherings!
Fruit Infusion: Chop up dried fruits like cranberries or apricots and fold them into the oat layer for a chewy fruity kick.

If you’re looking for more delectable ideas, don’t miss out on my recipe for Vegetarian Comfort Casserole or indulge in a slice of Hot Fudge Brownie for an extra sweet treat!

Make Ahead Options

These Carmelitas are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeks! You can prepare the oat base and layer it in the baking pan up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, sprinkle the chocolate chips and drizzle the caramel sauce on top, then finish with the remaining oat mixture before baking as directed. If you want to refrigerate for up to 3 days before serving, simply bake and allow to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container to maintain their chewy texture. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have delicious Carmelitas ready to impress your guests with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Carmelitas for a Crowd

Ingredient Substitutions: If you have dietary restrictions, use gluten-free oats and almond flour for the base. These will keep the recipe delicious without compromising texture.
Caramel Quality: Choose a thick caramel sauce to prevent a runny filling. A homemade version offers superior flavor, but a quality store-bought option works beautifully, too.
Cooling Time: Allowing your Carmelitas to cool completely before slicing is crucial. This firming up helps prevent messy cuts and ensures perfect squares.
Even Baking: Rotate the pan halfway through baking to ensure even browning, especially for caramel recipes. This small step can make a significant difference in your final treat.
Serve Warm: For the best experience, serve Carmelitas warm. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of extra caramel elevates these treats into something truly special.

What to Serve with Deliciously Chewy Carmelitas?

Cozy up your dessert table with delightful accompaniments that will make your Carmelitas shine even brighter.

Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cold contrast of vanilla ice cream perfectly balances the chewy Carmelitas, enhancing their warmth and sweetness.
Fresh Berries: Add a pop of freshness with tart raspberries or sweet strawberries; their acidity cuts through the richness, making every bite more vibrant.
Espresso or Coffee: A bold espresso or cup of rich coffee brings out the chocolate flavors, creating a delightful indulgence for your taste buds.
Whipped Cream: Fluffy whipped cream on top adds a light, airy texture that beautifully complements the dense layers of caramel and chocolate.
Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: For true chocolate lovers, a drizzle of chocolate sauce on top intensifies the chocolate flavor and adds a glossy finish.
Nutty Granola: Sprinkle a bit of crunchy granola on top to provide a delightful texture contrast, bringing a wholesome element to your sweeter bars.
Caramel Dipping Sauce: Serve with a side of extra caramel sauce for those who crave that luscious gooey goodness; it’s the ultimate indulgent experience.

These pairings not only enhance the flavors of your Carmelitas but also create a sensational treat experience that your family and friends will adore!

Carmelitas for a Crowd Recipe FAQs

What type of oats should I use for Carmelitas?
For the best texture, I recommend using rolled oats. They provide a hearty, chewy quality that complements the caramel and chocolate layers beautifully. If you or your guests have gluten sensitivities, you can easily substitute the rolled oats with gluten-free oats without sacrificing flavor or texture.

How should I store leftover Carmelitas?
Store leftover Carmelitas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks. Be sure to cover them properly to maintain their chewiness, especially if you’re using a container that might not seal tightly.

Can I freeze Carmelitas, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze Carmelitas, first cut them into squares when they’re completely cool. Wrap each square individually in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and warm them briefly in the microwave for that gooey goodness.

What should I do if the caramel layer is too runny?
If you find your caramel layer is too runny, which can happen if the sauce is too thin, there are a couple of things you can do. First, ensure you’re using a thick caramel sauce to begin with; homemade caramel is often better for this. If it’s too late and your Carmelitas turned out runnier than expected, you can chill them in the refrigerator, which will help the caramel set up a bit. Additionally, you may want to reduce the baking time slightly in your next batch to achieve that perfect gooey layer without overflow.

Are Carmelitas safe for people with nut allergies?
If you’re making Carmelitas for someone with a nut allergy, be cautious with any optional ingredients. The basic recipe is nut-free, but if you plan to add nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, consider making a separate batch without nuts. This way, you can ensure a safe choice for your guests.

What’s the best way to cut Carmelitas for serving?
To achieve clean cuts, let your Carmelitas cool completely at room temperature or place them in the fridge for a quick chill. Using a sharp knife helps as well. For an even better experience, run the knife under hot water before cutting, which will give you those neat edges and make for a visually appealing presentation!