Carmelitas Oatmeal Chocolate Caramel (Printable Version)

Buttery oatmeal bars layered with smooth chocolate and melted caramel. #dessert #chocolate #caramel #oatmeal #bars

# Ingredients:

→ Cookie Base

01 - 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned oats
03 - 1 cup salted butter, melted
04 - 3/4 cup light brown sugar, tightly packed
05 - 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
06 - 1 teaspoon baking soda
07 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

→ Chocolate and Caramel Layer

08 - 1 1/2 cups milk chocolate chips
09 - 11 ounces caramels, individually wrapped
10 - 1/2 cup heavy cream

# Steps:

01 - Combine all-purpose flour, old-fashioned oats, melted salted butter, light brown sugar, pure vanilla extract, baking soda, and kosher salt in a mixing bowl. Stir until evenly incorporated.
02 - Press half of the prepared cookie mixture firmly into a greased baking pan to form an even layer.
03 - Sprinkle milk chocolate chips evenly over the cookie base. In a saucepan over low heat, melt caramels with heavy cream, stirring constantly until smooth. Pour the warm caramel mixture over the chocolate chips.
04 - Crumble the remaining cookie mixture evenly over the caramel layer. Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 25 to 30 minutes or until golden brown.
05 - Allow to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares for serving.

# Notes:

01 - For enhanced flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt before baking.
02 - Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.