Whether I need to make a quick treat for a friend’s birthday, a housewarming party, a bake sale, or I’m simply in the mood to throw together a delicious dessert for myself, Oatmeal Carmelitas are my go-to dessert. Every time I share these treats with my friends and roommates, their eyes light up as they take a bite into one of these bars. With the crispy oatmeal crunch and the chocolatey caramel middle, these bars are sure to excite your tastebuds and warm your heart. The best part? They are SO quick and easy to make.

Oatmeal Carmelitas

  • Prep Time:10-15 minutes
  • Cook Time:28-32 minutes
  • Total Time:About 45 minutes
  • Servings:About 36 servings
  • Easy

    Ingredients

  • 2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cup quick-cooking rolled oats
  • 1 1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/4 cup softened butter
  • 1 cup caramel ice cream topping (full 12.5 oz jar)
  • 3 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • Step 1

    Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 13×9 inch pan.

  • Step 2

    Combine the ingredients (except the caramel, 3 tablespoons of flour, and the chocolate chips) in a large bowl and blend at a low speed until ingredients are crumbly.

    Photo by Maggie Rippeto
  • Step 3

    Press half of the crumble mixture in the bottom of the greased pan.

  • Step 4

    Combine the caramel topping and the 3 tablespoons of flour in a small bowl as the crust bakes.

    Photo by Maggie Rippeto
  • Step 5

    Remove crust from the oven. It should be somewhat golden brown.

    Photo by Maggie Rippeto
  • Step 6

    Pour the caramel and flour mixture so that it covers the crust.

  • Step 7

    Sprinkle the chocolate chips (as much as you want) over the caramel.

    Photo by Maggie Rippeto
  • Step 8

    Crumble the rest of the crumb mixture over the top (keep it a little chunky so it will have a nice crunch).

  • Step 9

    Bake at 350°F for another 18-22 minutes or until golden brown.

  • Step 10

    Remove from the oven and let them cool from hot to warm.

    Photo by Maggie Rippeto
  • Step 11

    Cut them into squares and enjoy!

    Photo by Maggie Rippeto