Oatmeal Chocolate Carmel Bars

Oatmeal Chocolate Carmel Bars are the perfect blend of chewy oats, rich chocolate, and gooey caramel, making them an irresistible treat for anyone with a sweet tooth. These bars are not just delicious but also incredibly easy to make, making them a great choice for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. Whether you’re looking for a delightful dessert to share with friends or a sweet snack to enjoy at home, these bars will surely impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The beauty of Oatmeal Chocolate Carmel Bars lies in their versatility and flavor. The combination of oats and chocolate creates a delightful texture, while the caramel adds a luscious layer of sweetness. Here are a few reasons to fall in love with this recipe:

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have these bars whipped up in no time.
• Perfect Texture: The chewy oats paired with melted chocolate and gooey caramel create a satisfying bite.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste, whether you want extra chocolate or a nutty crunch.
• Great for Sharing: Cut them into bars and share them with friends, family, or colleagues; they are always a hit!

What Goes Into Oatmeal Chocolate Carmel Bars

To create these scrumptious Oatmeal Chocolate Carmel Bars, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• 3/4 cup packed light-brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon table salt
• 1 egg
• 10 tablespoons salted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup chocolate chips

For the caramel layer, you will need:

• 1/2 cup salted butter
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup corn syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder

Before You Start: Equipment

Before diving into the baking process, make sure you have the following equipment on hand:

• Mixing Bowls: For combining your ingredients.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to great baking.
• Spatula: For mixing and spreading your batter evenly.
• 9×13-inch Baking Pan: Perfect size for baking the bars.
• Double Boiler or Microwave: For melting butter and making caramel.

Oatmeal Chocolate Carmel Bars Made Stepwise

Creating Oatmeal Chocolate Carmel Bars is a delightful process. Follow these steps to achieve the perfect bars:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bars bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, light-brown sugar, baking soda, and table salt. Stir until well combined.

Step 4: Incorporate Wet Ingredients

Add the melted salted butter, egg, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until everything is just combined, being careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the chocolate chips until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 6: Spread the Batter

Transfer the batter to the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly. Press it down slightly to ensure it holds together during baking.

Step 7: Bake the Base

Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden.

Step 8: Make the Caramel

While the base is baking, prepare the caramel. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the salted butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, salt, and baking powder. Stir continuously until everything is melted and smooth.

Step 9: Pour the Caramel

Once the base is out of the oven, pour the caramel mixture over the baked layer. Spread it evenly with a spatula.

Step 10: Add Remaining Batter

Using the remaining batter, drop spoonfuls over the caramel layer. It doesn’t have to cover it completely; some caramel should be visible.

Step 11: Bake Again

Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and set.

Step 12: Cool and Cut

Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely before cutting into squares. This will help the bars set properly.

Dietary Swaps & Alternatives

If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, consider these swaps:

• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Vegan: Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) instead of an egg, and replace butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute.
• Nut-Free: Ensure any chocolate chips used are nut-free, and avoid adding nuts if you’re serving those with nut allergies.
• Reduced Sugar: Use a sugar substitute or reduce the amount of brown sugar for a lighter version.

Steer Clear of These

To achieve the best results with your Oatmeal Chocolate Carmel Bars, avoid these common pitfalls:

• Do not overmix the batter; this can lead to tough bars.
• Avoid using quick oats, as they will alter the texture of the bars.
• Don’t skip the cooling step; cutting too early can result in messy bars.
• Make sure your baking soda is fresh; expired leavening agents can cause your bars to not rise properly.

Prep Ahead & Store

Oatmeal Chocolate Carmel Bars can be prepared ahead of time and stored for later enjoyment:

You can bake these bars a day in advance, allowing them to stay fresh for your gathering. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. To freeze, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use other types of chocolate in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to use dark chocolate, white chocolate, or even butterscotch chips for a fun twist on flavor.

How can I tell when the bars are done baking?

The bars are done when the edges are golden brown and the center is set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out mostly clean, with just a few moist crumbs.

Can I add nuts or dried fruit to the bars?

Yes, adding chopped nuts or dried fruit such as cranberries or raisins can enhance the flavor and texture. Just be mindful of dietary restrictions if sharing.

What should I serve with Oatmeal Chocolate Carmel Bars?

These bars are delicious on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an indulgent dessert!

In Closing

If you’re looking for a simple yet delightful treat that combines the wholesome goodness of oats with the indulgence of chocolate and caramel, look no further than Oatmeal Chocolate Carmel Bars. These bars are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering, treating yourself, or simply craving something sweet. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can create a dessert that’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Happy baking, and enjoy every delicious bite!