Oatmeal Caramel Bars

Oatmeal Caramel Bars are a delightful dessert that combines the rustic charm of oats with the rich indulgence of creamy caramel. These layered bars are easy to make and deliver a satisfying blend of chewiness, crunch, and gooey sweetness that makes them a perfect treat for potlucks, bake sales, or weeknight desserts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These bars strike the perfect balance between wholesome oats and decadent caramel. The base and topping are made from the same oat mixture, while the center boasts a buttery, soft caramel that melts into every bite. They’re easy to slice, serve, and transport, and they can be made ahead of time, making them incredibly convenient.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Old-fashioned rolled oats
• All-purpose flour
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Brown sugar
• Unsalted butter (melted)
• Vanilla extract
• Soft caramels or caramel bits
• Heavy cream or milk
• Optional: chocolate chips or chopped nuts

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, flour, baking soda, salt, and brown sugar. Mix well.
3. Add melted butter and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture forms a crumbly dough.
4. Press half the mixture firmly into the prepared pan to form the base. Bake for 10 minutes.
5. While the base bakes, melt the caramels with cream in a saucepan over low heat, stirring until smooth.
6. Pour the melted caramel evenly over the baked base.
7. Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture over the caramel layer. Gently press down.
8. Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 15–20 minutes until golden brown.
9. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.

Servings and timing

Servings: 24 bars
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Cooling Time: 1 hour
Total Time: Approx. 1 hour 45 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate-Caramel: Add a layer of chocolate chips over the caramel before the oat topping.
• Nutty Crunch: Mix in chopped pecans or walnuts for extra texture.
• Salted Caramel: Sprinkle sea salt over the caramel layer.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend and certified GF oats.

Storage/Reheating

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Let them come to room temperature before serving. These bars are not meant to be reheated; enjoy them cool or at room temp.

FAQs

Can I use quick oats?

Old-fashioned oats are best for texture, but quick oats can work in a pinch.

Can I make these dairy-free?

Yes, use vegan butter and coconut milk instead of cream.

What’s the best caramel to use?

Soft caramels or caramel baking bits melt easily and are ideal.

Do I need to use parchment paper?

It’s helpful for easy removal and clean edges when cutting.

Can I freeze oatmeal caramel bars?

Yes, wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw before serving.

Can I add chocolate?

Absolutely—layer chocolate chips between the base and caramel.

What’s the texture like?

They’re chewy with a soft caramel middle and a lightly crisp oat topping.

Should I refrigerate them?

You can, but it makes the caramel firmer. Let sit before serving.

Can I add dried fruit?

Yes, chopped dates or cranberries complement the caramel well.

How do I cut clean bars?

Let them cool completely, then use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts.

Conclusion

Oatmeal Caramel Bars are the perfect treat for those who love comfort desserts with a touch of decadence. With their hearty oat base and luscious caramel layer, they offer nostalgic flavors and crowd-pleasing appeal, ideal for both casual snacking and festive occasions.

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