Carmelita Bars

Chewy  gooey  caramel wrapped around the perfect combination of chocolate and oatmeal make this bar an unforgettable treat.  A friend and  fantastic baker gave me this amazing recipe years ago.  Fortunately for my waistline, this recipe fell between the cracks for many years.  But this time of year is for indulging and celebrating with good food and friends, so let’s enjoy these for as long as we can get away with it!

Carmelita BarsMelt the caramels with the evaporated milk over a double boiler.

Carmelita Bars

In a medium bowl combine flour, oats, brown sugar, baking soda, salt and melted butter.

Carmelita Bars

Carmelita Bars

Monica
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Cookies
Cuisine Sweet Treats
Servings 24 bars

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 pound approximately 32 light caramels
  • 5 tablespoons evaporated milk
  • 1 cup flour
  • 1 cup quick oats
  • 3/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup butter melted
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans
  • 6 ounces about 3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
  • Melt caramels in evaporated milk in the top of a double boiler. Set aside to cool slightly.
  • In a medium bowl combine flour, oats, brown sugar, baking soda, salt and melted butter.
  • Press half of the crumb mixture into the bottom of an ungreased 11x7 pan.
  • Bake at 350 degrees for 10 minutes.
  • Remove pan from oven and sprinkle with chocolate chips and pecans.
  • Spread the caramel mixture over the top carefully.
  • Sprinkle with the remaining crumb mixture.
  • Bake at 350 degrees 15-20 minutes longer or until golden brown.
  • Chill for 1 to 2 hours before cutting into bars.

Enjoy!