Carmelitas

Introduction:

Carmelitas – the name itself evokes a sense of indulgence, decadence, and pure delight. These scrumptious treats are a perfect blend of rich caramel, gooey chocolate, and buttery oats, creating a symphony of flavors that tantalize the taste buds. In this article, we delve into the origins of Carmelitas, explore what makes them so irresistible, and share a delectable recipe for you to recreate this culinary masterpiece at home.

Ingredients:

Cookie Base:

• 1 cup all purpose flour
• 1 cup rolled oats
• ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 12 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Caramel Sauce:

• 36 caramels unwrapped (Kraft brand)
• ½ cup heavy cream

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil sprayed with nonstick spray.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, baking soda, salt, melted butter, and vanilla extract with a fork.
3. Using a spoon and a fork, pat a little more than half of the mixture into your prepared pan and bake it for 10 minutes.
4.  Meanwhile, add the unwrapped caramels and the heavy cream to a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 60-second intervals, stirring well after each interval, until the caramels are melted, and the sauce is smooth. Use a whisk towards the end of the melting process for a smoother caramel sauce.
5.  Remove the baked oat mixture from the oven and sprinkle it with the chocolate chips.
6. Pour the caramel sauce over the chocolate chips. Sprinkle with the remaining oat mixture and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Cool completely before cutting. Once slightly cooled, you can speed the process up by placing the pan in the fridge.

Serving Tips:

1. Allow Carmelitas to cool completely before cutting into bars. This helps them maintain their shape and ensures cleaner cuts.
2. For an extra indulgent touch, serve Carmelitas warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
3. Garnish with a drizzle of caramel sauce and a sprinkle of sea salt for added flavor and visual appeal.
4. Pair Carmelitas with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of milk for a delightful afternoon treat or after-dinner dessert.

Storage Tips:

1. Store leftover Carmelitas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the container is tightly sealed to prevent air exposure, which can cause them to become stale.
2. If you prefer a chewier texture, you can store Carmelitas in the refrigerator. Place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out.
3. To freeze Carmelitas for longer-term storage, individually wrap them in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
4. When ready to enjoy, allow frozen Carmelitas to thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or heat them in the microwave for a few seconds for a warm, gooey treat.

FAQs: