Description
Delight in these easy-to-make Carmelitas bars that perfectly blend chewy oats, gooey plant-based caramel sauce, and smooth chocolate chunks. With simple pantry staples, they offer a heavenly bite with a satisfying texture and rich flavors, perfect for snacks, gifting, or any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned oats
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup plant-based butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (natural)
Layers
- 1 cup plant-based caramel sauce
- 1 cup chocolate chunks (plant-based)
Instructions
- Prepare the Oat Base: In a large bowl, mix the old-fashioned oats, all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend), brown sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Add the softened plant-based butter and natural vanilla extract, stirring until the mixture resembles a crumbly dough that holds together.
- Press Half the Mixture into the Pan: Lightly grease a square baking pan. Firmly press half of the oat mixture evenly into the bottom of the pan to create a sturdy base for the bars.
- Add the Caramel and Chocolate Layers: Spread the plant-based caramel sauce evenly over the oat base. Sprinkle the plant-based chocolate chunks evenly on top of the caramel layer to create the luscious middle.
- Top and Bake: Gently sprinkle the remaining oat mixture over the caramel and chocolate layers, sealing them in. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden and the caramel bubbles softly.
- Cool and Slice: Allow the Carmelitas to cool in the pan for at least 45 minutes to set properly. Once cooled, slice into bars and serve.
Notes
- Use room temperature plant-based butter to ensure the oat mixture blends smoothly.
- Press the oat bases firmly to avoid crumbling after baking.
- Spread the plant-based caramel sauce evenly for consistent flavor in every bite.
- Cool bars fully before slicing for clean cuts and better texture.
- Choose high-quality plant-based chocolate chunks for the best melt and taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 110mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Carmelitas, oat bars, caramel bars, chocolate oat bars, plant-based dessert, gluten-free dessert
