Easy Chocal Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Caramel Bars Recipe

Chocal Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Caramel Bars Recipe :ever had a day where you just need something sweet? These Chocal Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Caramel Bars are perfect. They have layers of oatmeal cookie dough, chocolate chips, and gooey caramel. This recipe is a hit, with a 4.9 out of 5 rating from 16 reviews.

They’re great for any event, like a party or bake sale. Or, just for a sweet treat at home.

Key Takeaways

• Indulgent dessert bars featuring layers of oatmeal cookie dough, chocolate chips, and gooey caramel
• Recipe yields 16 squares or can be doubled for larger batches
• Perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and ideal for various occasions
• Homemade salted caramel sauce adds a delightful flavor and texture
• Receives high ratings from reviewers for its exceptional taste and quality

Introduction to Decadent Oatmeal Caramel Bars

Indulge in the irresistible mix of chewy oatmeal cookie texture, rich chocolate chips, and gooey caramel. These Chocal Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Caramel Bars are known as “Carmelitas.” They’re a favorite for their captivating flavors and contrasting textures.

Looking to gift treats, bring them to a potluck, or enjoy them as a pie alternative? These Chocal Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Caramel Bars will delight. Their unique mix of oats, chocolate, and caramel offers a decadent experience that will leave you wanting more.

“The original Carmelitas recipe debuted in the 1967 Pillsbury Bake-Off, and since then, these bars have become a beloved classic.”

Prepare to indulge in the ultimate sweet and salty treat with this Chocal Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Caramel Bars recipe. Get ready to enjoy the perfect blend of flavors and textures in every bite.

Essential Ingredients for Chocal Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Caramel Bars Recipe

To make the perfect Chocal Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Caramel Bars, you need the right ingredients. These no-bake bars are tasty and simple to make. They’re great for quick, satisfying snacks.

Dry Ingredients List

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups quick-cooking oats
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients Components

The wet ingredients mix with the dry ones to make a tasty dough. This dough is the base for the oatmeal cookie:

1. 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
2. 2 large eggs
3. 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Special Add-ins and Toppings

To make these homemade snacks even better, add some special ingredients:

• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
• 1 jar (12 oz) caramel ice cream topping

With these ingredients, you’re ready to make easy recipes for delicious no-bake bars. They’ll satisfy any sweet craving.

Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed

To make the tasty Chocal Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Caramel Bars, you’ll need some basic baking tools. First, grab an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch square baking pan. Cover it with parchment paper or foil to make the bars easy to remove. You’ll also need bowls, measuring cups and spoons, and a spoon or mixer to mix the ingredients.

For melting the caramel topping, use a microwave-safe bowl. This makes it easy to heat the caramel to the right consistency for drizzling. Also, having a wire cooling rack is handy for cooling the bars completely before cutting.

• 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch square baking pan
• Parchment paper or foil for lining
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or electric mixer
• Microwave-safe bowl for melting caramel
• Wire cooling rack

With these baking equipment and kitchen tools, you’re ready to make the Chocal Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Caramel Bars. Let’s start this delicious recipe!

Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions

Making these Chocal Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Caramel Bars is easy and fun. Follow these simple steps to make your own batch of these delicious treats.

Making the Oatmeal Cookie Base

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a big bowl, mix together 2 cups of flour, 1 cup of quick-cooking oats, 3/4 cup of brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Whisk until everything is well mixed.

Preparing the Caramel Layer

To make the caramel layer, you can use store-bought caramel sauce or make your own. To make it, melt 34 caramel squares with 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Stir until it’s smooth and creamy.

Adding Chocolate and Final Assembly

Press half of the oatmeal cookie dough into a greased 8-inch or 9-inch square baking dish. Bake for 15 minutes. Then, remove it from the oven and sprinkle 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips over it. Next, pour the caramel mixture over the chocolate chips. Finally, crumble the remaining oatmeal dough over the caramel.

Put the bars back in the oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the top is golden. Let them cool completely before cutting into squares and serving.

With these easy steps, you can make a batch of these rich, decadent bars. They will impress your family and friends. Enjoy the perfect mix of chewy oatmeal, gooey caramel, and chocolate in every bite.

Baking Tips and Techniques

Preparing delicious baking tips and dessert preparation is all about the details. As you make these irresistible Chocal Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Caramel Bars, keep these tips in mind. They’ll help you have a smooth and successful baking experience.

• Line your baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal and effortless cleanup. This simple step will save you time and effort when it’s time to slice and serve the bars.
• For an extra layer of flavor, try toasting the nuts before adding them to the recipe. This brings out their natural oils and enhances the overall taste.
• Patience is key when it comes to these bars. Allow them to cool completely on a wire rack before cutting, as this will result in cleaner, more defined slices.
• Utilize a kitchen scale to measure your ingredients with precision. Baking is a science, and using exact measurements can make all the difference in the final texture and consistency of your bars.
• Chill the dough between steps, such as when pressing it into the pan and after adding the toppings. This will make the dough easier to handle and help maintain its shape during baking.

By following these simple baking tips and dessert preparation techniques, you’ll create the perfect Chocal Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Caramel Bars. They’re sure to impress your family and friends.

Texture and Flavor Profile

These Chocal Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Caramel Bars are a treat for dessert lovers. They have a chewy oatmeal cookie base with a crunchy texture from buttery nuts. On top, a gooey caramel layer meets the melty chocolate chips for a perfect mix.

Cookie Layer Characteristics

The oatmeal cookie base is chewy and hearty. It’s made with oats, butter, and brown sugar for a rich taste. Chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts add crunch and a nutty flavor.

Caramel and Chocolate Integration

The caramel layer is the highlight, blending smoothly with the chocolate chips. This creates a flavor explosion in each bite. The chewy caramel and melted chocolate make the bars incredibly decadent.

“The Chocal Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Caramel Bars are a true delight for the senses, offering a symphony of indulgent treats and dessert textures in every bite.”

Storage and Shelf Life Guidelines

Proper storage is key to enjoying the delectable Chocal Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Caramel Bars at their best. Store these treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate them for up to 7 days.

If you want to enjoy these bars longer, freeze them for up to 3 months. Wrap each bar individually before freezing in a freezer-safe bag or container. This prevents freezer burn and keeps the texture and flavor. Thaw the bars at room temperature before serving for a decadent dessert experience.

By following these dessert storage and shelf life guidelines, your Chocal Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Caramel Bars will stay fresh and delicious. They’ll be ready to satisfy your sweet cravings whenever you want.

Recipe Variations and Customizations

The Chocal Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Caramel Bars recipe is very versatile. You can try different ingredients to make your own unique desserts. This lets you create desserts that you and your loved ones will love.

Nut Additions

Adding chopped nuts to the oatmeal cookie base adds a nice crunch. Almonds or cashews are great choices. They bring a nutty flavor and a fun texture to the bars. Toasting the nuts first can make them even more delicious.

Chocolate Options

While semisweet chocolate chips are classic, you can try other types. Dark chocolate chips give a deeper flavor, while white chocolate chips are sweeter. You can also mix milk and dark chocolate for a unique taste.

Caramel Alternatives

Try different caramel flavors for a twist. Salted caramel is a favorite for its sweet and salty mix. You can also use dulce de leche or maple syrup for a milder caramel taste.

Customizing this recipe is endless. Let your creativity shine and enjoy making delicious desserts.

Nutritional Information and Serving Size

These Chocal Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Caramel Bars are a treat, but knowing their nutritional facts is key. Each bar has about 510 calories, 73g of carbs, 5g of protein, and 23g of fat. They’re tempting, but remember to watch your portion sizes.

To control your dessert intake, cut the bars into smaller pieces. This way, you can enjoy more servings with fewer calories. The recipe is flexible, so you can adjust the serving size to fit your diet.

Enjoy these bars in moderation to keep your diet balanced. Savor each bite and enjoy the treat responsibly.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Baking the perfect Easy Chocal Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Caramel Bars can sometimes be a challenge, but don’t worry – we’ve got you covered! Here are some solutions to the most common problems you might encounter:

If your bars turn out overly soft, they may need more cooling time. Make sure to let them cool completely on the baking sheet before attempting to remove them. This allows the caramel and chocolate to set properly, resulting in the perfect texture.

On the other hand, if the caramel layer is too hard, it’s likely that the caramel was overcooked. Next time, keep a closer eye on the caramel as it simmers, and remove it from the heat as soon as it reaches the desired consistency.

If the texture of your bars is crumbly, it could be due to insufficient mixing or pressing of the dough. Be sure to thoroughly combine all the ingredients and firmly press the mixture into the baking pan for a cohesive, sturdy result.

Remember, accurate measurements of your ingredients are crucial for achieving the desired baking problems and dessert fixes. Follow the recipe closely, and you’ll be on your way to indulging in perfectly gooey, chocolatey, and caramelized bars every time.

“The secret to great baking is equal parts science and art. With a little practice and patience, you’ll be a master of dessert fixes in no time.”

Special Occasion Serving Suggestions

These Chocal Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Caramel Bars are ideal for special events. Their rich flavors and stunning look make them perfect for holidays like Thanksgiving or Christmas. They’re also great as homemade gifts or for potlucks and bake sales.

For a fancier touch, serve the bars with vanilla ice cream or extra caramel sauce. This adds a delightful contrast of textures and temperatures. It turns these bars into a true dessert masterpiece.

Your guests will love the layers of buttery oatmeal, gooey caramel, and chocolate chips in these bars. They’re a hit for any event, thanks to their unique flavors and textures.

FAQ

What are Chocal Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Caramel Bars?

Chocal oatmeal chocolate chip caramel bars, also known as Carmelitas, are a rich dessert. They have layers of oatmeal cookie dough, chocolate chips, and caramel. This mix offers a great balance of textures and tastes.

What are the key ingredients in this recipe?

The main ingredients are flour, oats, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt. You also need butter, eggs, vanilla, chocolate chips, and caramels. Optional, you can add nuts or use heavy cream for the caramel.

What kitchen tools and equipment are needed to make these bars?

You’ll need an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch square baking pan. Use parchment paper or foil for lining. You’ll also need mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, a spoon or mixer, and a microwave-safe bowl for melting caramels.

How do you make Chocal Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Caramel Bars?

First, mix the dry and wet ingredients separately. Press half the dough into the pan and partially bake. Then, layer with chocolate chips and caramel. Top with the remaining dough and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes.

What are some tips for best results when making these bars?

Use parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup. Toasting nuts can enhance flavor. Let the bars cool completely before cutting. Use a kitchen scale for accurate measurements and chill the dough for easier handling.

How should Chocal Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Caramel Bars be stored and how long do they last?

Store the bars at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Refrigerate for up to 9 days. Freeze for up to 3 months, wrapped individually in a freezer-safe bag.

Can the recipe be customized or varied?

Yes, you can try different nuts like almonds or cashews. Experiment with various chocolate types, add coconut for a tropical twist, or make a salted caramel version for a sweet-salty mix.

What is the nutritional information and serving size for these bars?

Each bar (based on 16 servings) has about 510 calories, 73g carbohydrates, 5g protein, and 23g fat. They’re rich, so cutting them into smaller pieces can help reduce calories.

What are some common issues that may arise when making these bars?

Issues include soft bars (need more cooling), hard caramel (overcooked), or crumbly texture (insufficient mixing). Proper measuring and cooling are key for the best results.

When are Chocal Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Caramel Bars best served?

They’re great for holidays like Thanksgiving or Christmas as a pie alternative. They’re also perfect for potlucks, bake sales, or as homemade gifts. Serve with vanilla ice cream or extra caramel sauce for a special touch.