Name: Carmelitas for a Crowd: Gooey Bars Everyone Will Love
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 105 min
Ingredients: 1 cup butter (or margarine for dairy-free); 1 cup brown sugar (or coconut sugar for a unique twist); 1 cup oats (instant oats yield a smoother texture); 1 cup flour (or whole wheat flour for added nutrition); 1 teaspoon baking soda (ensure it's fresh); 1 pinch salt (omit for low-sodium); 1 to 1.5 cups chocolate chips (or nuts for dietary needs); 1 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)

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As I sat around the table with friends, laughter filled the air, and I couldn’t help but notice the plate of Carmelitas slowly disappearing. These chewy caramel and chocolate bar cookies are the ultimate crowd-pleaser that have a magical ability to transform any gathering into a sweet celebration. Not only are they incredibly simple to prepare, but they also require minimal ingredients, allowing you to whip them up in no time. What’s more, they are perfect for sharing—who wouldn’t want a gooey, chocolatey bite? Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a sweet escape, these Carmelitas for a Crowd are sure to delight both young and old. Curious how to get your own batch of these irresistible treats? Let’s dive in!

Why Are Carmelitas So Irresistible?

Gooey, Chewy Perfection: These Carmelitas combine the best of both worlds—chewy cookie and rich caramel in one delightful bite.

Quick & Easy: With just a handful of ingredients and a simple process, you’ll have luscious treats ready in no time.

Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties or casual gatherings, the irresistible combination of chocolate and caramel keeps everyone coming back for more!

Versatile Flavors: Feel free to switch up the chocolate chips with your favorites or even top them with nuts for extra crunch, just like in my Million Dollar Lasagna.

Shareable Goodness: Cut them into squares and watch them disappear as friends and family indulge in these sweet bites. Whether you serve them warm for that gooey experience or at room temperature, they’re sure to impress!

Carmelitas for a Crowd Ingredients

For the Base Layer

Butter – Adds richness and moisture; can be substituted with margarine for a dairy-free version.
Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and deep flavor; coconut sugar makes for a unique twist.
Oats – Gives structure and chewiness; instant oats yield a smoother texture.
Flour – Acts as a binding agent; whole wheat flour adds nutrition.
Baking Soda – Helps the bars rise; ensure it’s fresh for the best results.
Salt – Enhances overall flavor; omit for a low-sodium option.

For the Filling

Chocolate Chips – Brings sweetness and delicious texture; feel free to swap for nuts to cater to dietary needs.
Caramel Sauce – Offers gooey goodness; homemade or store-bought works wonderfully for convenience.

These Carmelitas for a Crowd will quickly become a favorite, making your gatherings extra special!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Carmelitas for a Crowd

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures an even baking temperature and golden, perfectly gooey Carmelitas. While the oven warms up, prepare your 9×13 inch baking pan by greasing it lightly with butter or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened butter and 1 cup of brown sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. You should see a light, fluffy texture forming, which indicates that you’ve incorporated enough air for a tender crust in your Carmelitas.

Step 3: Mix in the Dry Ingredients
Next, add 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of oats, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and a pinch of salt to the creamed butter and sugar. Mix on low speed until combined. You’ll want to create a crumbly dough—this is your base layer that will hold the delightful gooey caramel and chocolate together.

Step 4: Form the Bottom Layer
Take half of the dough (about 2 cups) and press it evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan. Make sure to spread it out evenly, creating a solid base layer that covers the bottom fully. It should have a slight thickness, as it will provide a sturdy foundation for your filling.

Step 5: Add the Chocolate and Caramel
Now it’s time to make these Carmelitas truly irresistible! Sprinkle 1 to 1.5 cups of chocolate chips evenly over the pressed dough, followed by a generous drizzle of caramel sauce—about 1 cup. Make sure the caramel covers the chocolate chips well for that gooey goodness you’ll love when slicing.

Step 6: Crumble the Top Layer
Using the remaining dough, crumble it over the caramel and chocolate layer. Make sure to leave some small gaps so that the caramel can peek through while baking, giving you that beautiful texture. This layer will create a perfect crunchy topping when baked.

Step 7: Bake the Carmelitas
Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they’re done when the top is golden brown and the edges are slightly firm. The center should still be soft but not runny—these cues will help you achieve that lovely chewy texture.

Step 8: Cool and Cut
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the Carmelitas to cool completely at room temperature in the pan. This can take about an hour. For cleaner cuts, consider chilling them in the refrigerator for a short while before slicing into squares—this way, they’ll hold their shape beautifully when served.

How to Store and Freeze Carmelitas

Room Temperature: Keep Carmelitas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days to maintain their delightful chewy texture and gooey goodness.

Fridge: For extended freshness, store in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. This also helps keep the caramel layer nicely set.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze individual squares of Carmelitas wrapped in plastic wrap, then placed in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to 3 months, ensuring you always have a sweet treat on hand.

Reheating: To enjoy a warm, gooey bite, microwave frozen Carmelitas for about 15-20 seconds, or thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What to Serve with Carmelitas for a Crowd

Carmelitas for a Crowd are delightful little treasures that shine on their own, but let’s take your gathering to the next level with fabulous pairings!

Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool, creamy scoop contrasts beautifully with the warm, gooey bars, creating a classic dessert duo.
Fresh Berries: A handful of juicy raspberries or strawberries adds a fresh and tangy element, balancing the sweetness of the Carmelitas.
Coffee or Espresso: A rich cup of coffee enhances the chocolate flavors, making every bite even more enjoyable during your afternoon break.
Chocolate Drizzle: Elevate these treats with a chocolate sauce drizzle on top for an extra layer of decadence and a stunning presentation.
Whipped Cream: Fluffy whipped cream is a simple yet effective way to add lightness and richness, inviting everyone to indulge a little more.
Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and a hint of earthiness that nicely complements the sweetness.
Caramel Sauce: Serve an extra side of caramel sauce for dipping, intensifying the gooey fun of these already delightful treats.
Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea are a cozy match for the rich flavors of Carmelitas, perfect for cooler evenings with friends.

Enjoy these delightful pairings, and watch how they turn your gathering into an unforgettable sweet celebration!

Carmelitas for a Crowd Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing these delicious Carmelitas to suit your taste buds!

Nutty Delight:
Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for an extra crunch that perfectly complements the gooey caramel and chocolate.
Fruity Twist:
Incorporate dried cranberries or raisins into the filling for a delightful burst of fruity flavor that beautifully contrasts with the sweetness.
Dark Chocolate:
Swap regular chocolate chips for dark chocolate chips for a richer, slightly less sweet experience that’s perfect for dark chocolate lovers.
Coconut Flavor:
Mix in unsweetened shredded coconut for a tropical flair that pairs wonderfully with the caramel’s sweetness.
Spicy Kick:
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough for a fun, spicy twist that elevates the flavors and adds an unexpected zing.
Peanut Butter Swirl:
Swirl in some creamy peanut butter into the filling for a luscious combination of chocolate and peanut flavors that takes these bars to a whole new level.
Pumpkin Spice:
Add a teaspoon of pumpkin spice to the dough and top with pumpkin seeds for a seasonal variation that’s perfect for fall gatherings.
Vegan Option:
Replace butter with coconut oil and use a plant-based caramel for a completely vegan version that still delivers on deliciousness.

Remember, each variation opens doors to delightful new flavor experiences, just as you would enjoy the layers of taste in my Fudge Brownie Bread or the richness of Vegetarian Comfort Casserole. Let your imagination guide you!

Make Ahead Options

These Carmelitas for a Crowd are ideal for those looking to save time during busy weeks! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all ingredients and refrigerating it in an airtight container. Additionally, you can achieve a delightful texture by assembling the bars completely, covering them, and storing them in the fridge for up to 3 days before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy these sweet treats, simply pop the unbaked Carmelitas in the oven straight from the fridge, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if chilled. By prepping ahead, you’ll have mouthwatering, homemade bars ready to impress without all the fuss!

Expert Tips for Carmelitas

• Chill Before Cutting: For neater slices, refrigerate the baked bars for about 30 minutes before cutting. This will help maintain their shape and prevent mess.

• Control Your Caramel: Ensure the caramel sauce is at room temperature before adding it. If it’s too warm, it may make the bars overly gooey and difficult to cut.

• Use Parchment Paper: Lining the baking pan with parchment paper ensures easy removal and cleanup. This simple step saves you time and hassle later!

• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to switch up chocolate chips with your favorites, or add nuts or dried fruits for an interesting twist. This makes your Carmelitas for a Crowd even more exciting!

• Fresh Baking Soda: Always check the freshness of your baking soda to ensure proper rise. Old baking soda can result in dense bars, so switch it out regularly.

Carmelitas for a Crowd Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right caramel sauce?
Absolutely! When choosing a caramel sauce, look for one that is thick and gooey to create that delightful melting effect in your Carmelitas. Brands that offer a drizzleable consistency usually work best. You can also make your own by slowly melting granulated sugar until it turns amber, then stirring in cream and butter for a rich homemade option.

How should I store leftover Carmelitas?
For sure! To keep your Carmelitas fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. If you want to prolong their deliciousness, feel free to pop them in the fridge, where they’ll last for 2 weeks while remaining tasty and chewy.

Can I freeze Carmelitas?
Yes, indeed! To freeze your Carmelitas, wrap them individually in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight or microwave them for 15-20 seconds for that gooey treat sensation!

What if my Carmelitas come out too crumbly?
Very good question! If your Carmelitas are crumbly, it may be that you over-mixed the dough or used too much flour. Next time, try measuring your flour by spooning it into the measuring cup instead of scooping directly from the bag. If your dough seems too dry before baking, you can add a spoonful of melted butter to help moisten it.

Are Carmelitas suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Absolutely! You can easily make Carmelitas gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or almond flour. Be sure to double-check that your oats are labeled gluten-free, as some oats can be cross-contaminated during processing.

How do I know when my Carmelitas are done baking?
Great question! You’ll know your Carmelitas are done when the top is golden brown and the edges feel firm yet slightly soft to the touch. The center will still have a little wiggle, but don’t worry—it will set as they cool! Let them cool completely in the pan for about an hour to achieve that perfect chewy texture.