Caramel Oat Chocolate Bars (Carmelitas)
What Are Caramel Oat Chocolate Bars (Carmelitas)?
Caramel Oat Chocolate Bars, often called Carmelitas, are a rich dessert layered with oats, gooey caramel, and melted chocolate. Known for their chewy, buttery base and indulgent flavor, they’re one of the most popular homemade treats trending in 2025. These bars balance sweet caramel, soft oats, and creamy chocolate in every bite — making them a crowd favorite for family gatherings, bake sales, or weekend desserts.
Key Features of Caramel Oat Chocolate Bars
- Buttery oat crust with chewy texture
- Thick layer of melted chocolate chips
- Sweet, gooey caramel filling
- Baked in a pan, cut into squares
- Easy to make at home with pantry staples
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what typically goes into making Caramel Oat Chocolate Bars:
- Rolled oats
- All-purpose flour
- Brown sugar
- Butter (melted)
- Baking soda
- Chocolate chips
- Caramel sauce (or caramel candies with cream)
- Vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Price & Availability
Unlike fast-food items, Carmelitas are usually homemade. However, bakeries and dessert cafés sometimes sell them. On average:
- Homemade batch (9×13 pan): Costs around $8–$10 in ingredients
- Bakery price per bar: $2.50–$4 depending on size and location
Size & Serving Guide
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Pan Size | 9×13 inch (standard) |
| Number of Bars | 12–16 squares |
| Serving Size | 1 bar |
| Best For | Desserts, bake sales, gifting |
Nutrition Facts (Per Bar, Approx.)
| Nutrient | Per Bar |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320–350 |
| Carbohydrates | 40–42 g |
| Protein | 3–4 g |
| Fat | 16 g |
| Sugar | 27–29 g |
| Sodium | 180 mg |
Note: Nutrition may vary based on chocolate/caramel used.
Diet Considerations
- Vegetarian: Yes, contains no meat
- Nut-Free: If using plain caramel & chocolate
- Gluten-Free: Unless made with certified GF oats/flour
- Dairy-Free: Standard recipe uses butter & caramel (but can be adapted)
How to Make Caramel Oat Chocolate Bars
- Prepare oat crust with flour, oats, butter, and sugar.
- Bake the bottom layer for 10 minutes.
- Layer with chocolate chips and pour caramel sauce on top.
- Add remaining oat mixture and bake until golden.
- Cool, slice into bars, and enjoy!
Reviews & Taste Notes
We baked these bars in September 2025, and here’s what stood out:
Texture: Chewy oats with gooey layers
Flavor: Sweet caramel with rich chocolate
Portion: One bar is filling — great for sharing
Best Tip: Let them cool before cutting for neat slices
Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories are in a caramel oat bar?
Each bar has 320–350 calories, depending on size.
Are Caramel Oat Bars vegetarian?
Yes — they contain no meat products.
Can I freeze them?
Yes, they freeze well for up to 2 months. Store in an airtight container.
How long do they last at room temperature?
They stay fresh for 3–4 days when stored in a sealed container.
Do bakeries sell them?
Some do! Prices usually range $2.50–$4 per bar.
Final Thoughts
Caramel Oat Chocolate Bars (Carmelitas) are a must-try dessert in 2025. They’re chewy, gooey, and rich — perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth or impressing guests. Whether you bake them at home or buy them from a bakery, these indulgent bars continue to shine as one of the most loved dessert recipes worldwide.
