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Carmelitas

Carmelitas

  • Author: Marcus
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 16 bars
  • Diet: Plant-Based, Gluten Free Option

Description

This easy Carmelitas recipe combines chewy rolled oats, rich caramel, and smooth plant-based chocolate for a perfectly balanced sweet treat. Made with simple pantry staples and a natural gelling agent, these bars offer a comforting and indulgent snack or dessert that is plant-based and nourishing. Customize them with nuts, dried fruits, or spices to suit your taste.

Ingredients

Oat Base

  • Rolled oats: 2 cups
  • Brown sugar (natural): 1/2 cup
  • Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
  • Natural gelling agent: 1 teaspoon
  • Plant-based butter (melted): 1/2 cup (1 stick)

Caramel Layer

  • Plant-based butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick)
  • Brown sugar (natural): 1 cup
  • Apple cider vinegar: 1 tablespoon
  • Vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural): 1 teaspoon
  • Natural vanilla extract (natural): 1 teaspoon

Top Layer

  • Plant-based chocolate chips: 1 cup
  • Optional nuts (chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds): 1/2 cup
  • Optional dried fruit (dried cranberries or raisins): 1/3 cup

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oat base: Combine rolled oats, brown sugar, salt, and natural gelling agent in a mixing bowl. Add melted plant-based butter and mix well for richness. Press this mixture firmly into a greased baking dish to form an even crust layer.
  2. Make the caramel layer: In a saucepan, gently melt plant-based butter with brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce while stirring constantly. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens and turns a golden caramel color. Remove from heat and stir in natural vanilla extract.
  3. Assemble the bars: Pour the warm caramel evenly over the oat base. Scatter plant-based chocolate chips and any optional nuts or dried fruit on top. Press lightly to embed the chocolate into the caramel layer.
  4. Bake and set: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes or until bubbly and slightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely so the natural gelling agent can set and the bars hold together when sliced.
  5. Slice and serve: Cut the cooled Carmelitas into squares or bars of desired size. Enjoy the chewy bottom, gooey caramel middle, and melty chocolate topping.

Notes

  • Chill the bars completely before slicing to get clean cuts.
  • Press the oat crust firmly and spread the caramel evenly to avoid soggy spots.
  • Use high-quality plant-based chocolate chips for better melting and richer flavor.
  • Do not reduce the butter as it is crucial for texture and caramel smoothness.
  • Customize by adding nuts or dried fruits but avoid watery fruits to maintain bar consistency.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bar
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 90mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 27g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Carmelitas, plant-based dessert, oat bars, caramel bars, vegan caramel bars, plant-based chocolate, sweet treat, gluten-free option

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