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Carmelitas

Carmelitas

  • Author: Samuel
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 16 bars 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Carmelitas are rich, chewy dessert bars featuring layers of buttery oats, crunchy nuts, and luscious caramel made with sweetened condensed coconut milk (natural). This recipe uses simple pantry staples to create an addictive treat that balances sweetness and crunch, perfect for sharing or enjoying solo.

Ingredients

Scale

Oat and Nut Base

  • 2 cups rolled oats
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup plant-based butter, melted

Caramel Layer

  • 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed coconut milk (natural)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (natural)
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oat and nut base: Combine the rolled oats, chopped nuts, brown sugar, and melted plant-based butter in a mixing bowl. Stir gently until all ingredients are evenly coated and the mixture becomes crumbly. Press half of this mixture firmly into a parchment-lined baking pan to form a sturdy base.
  2. Make the caramel layer: In a saucepan over low heat, gently warm the sweetened condensed coconut milk (natural), vanilla extract (natural), and a pinch of salt. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens into a rich caramel consistency. Pour this caramel evenly over the oat base in the pan.
  3. Add the topping and bake: Sprinkle the remaining oat and nut mixture over the caramel layer. Lightly press down to ensure it adheres. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbling. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely before slicing.
  4. Slice and enjoy: Once cooled, use a sharp knife to cut the Carmelitas into squares or bars. Serve immediately or store for later snacking, enjoying the perfect harmony of creamy caramel and crunchy oat layers in every bite.

Notes

  • Use room temperature plant-based butter for even blending into the oat mixture.
  • Press layers firmly to help bars hold together cleanly when cutting.
  • Cool completely before slicing to avoid crumbling.
  • Toast nuts beforehand to enhance flavor and add crunch.
  • Line the baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease removal.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bar
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 15g
  • Sodium: 50mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 26g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Carmelitas, oat bars, caramel bars, homemade dessert, chewy bars, nutty dessert, plant-based caramel

Find it online: https://quicktastykitchen.com/carmelitas/