Quick Easy Carmelitas Bars

These Quick and Easy Carmelitas are the answer when you need a decadent dessert fast Using only four simple ingredients and a few easy steps these bars come out rich gooey and packed with chocolate and caramel flavor They always disappear quickly at parties and potlucks and are my go to treat for those moments when I want something impressive with little fuss

I first made these when I was short on time for a bake sale since then they have become my family’s all time favorite treat and a frequently requested recipe among friends

Ingredients

• Refrigerated chocolate chip cookie dough: brings a soft chewy base and makes this recipe effortless look for a brand without too many artificial flavors for the best taste
• KRAFT caramels: deliver that classic gooey caramel center and melt smoothly every time choose fresh soft caramels for easy melting
• Evaporated milk: keeps the caramel creamy and prevents it from hardening make sure to use evaporated not sweetened condensed milk
• Semi sweet chocolate chips: add rich chocolate flavor balancing the sweetness of the caramel pick a high quality brand for best results

Step by Step Instructions

Prepare the Pan:

Line a nine inch square baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup

Form the Cookie Base:

Slice a little more than half the cookie dough into quarter inch rounds and arrange them covering the bottom of the pan Press into a single solid layer filling all gaps for a sturdy base

Initial Bake:

Bake the cookie dough base at three hundred fifty degrees for twenty to twenty five minutes until golden brown and set Let the base cool slightly to prevent the chocolate from melting too quickly in the next step

Melt the Caramel:

Unwrap caramels and combine with evaporated milk in a microwave safe bowl Heat for one minute on high Stir then continue heating in thirty second bursts until the caramel is completely smooth and pourable

Add Chocolate Layer:

Sprinkle chocolate chips evenly over the slightly cooled cookie base The residual heat will lightly melt the chips for easier spreading

Pour Caramel Layer:

Pour the melted caramel evenly over the chocolate chips creating an ooey gooey center Try to spread it close to the edges so every bite has caramel

Add Cookie Crumble:

Break up the remaining cookie dough and scatter over the caramel You want some bits peeking through for texture and a rustic look

Final Bake:

Return the pan to the oven and bake twelve to fifteen minutes until the top is lightly golden brown

Cool and Set:

Cool bars to room temperature then refrigerate for at least two hours for clean slicing Allow to sit out for fifteen minutes before cutting so they are easier to enjoy

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The way the caramel and chocolate swirl together in the center always reminds me of baking with my aunt on rainy afternoons She would let me sneak a warm corner piece before anyone else I now sneak extra caramel in whenever I make these because it is simply irresistible

Storage Tips

Keep Carmelitas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days For longer freshness tuck them into the fridge where they keep well for up to a week Want to save them even longer Wrap tightly and freeze for up to three months Just let them return to room temperature for a few minutes before serving for the best texture

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap out semi sweet chocolate chips for milk or dark chocolate depending on your preference If you cannot find refrigerated cookie dough homemade dough works as long as it is soft and easy to press Caramel baking bits can be used in place of individually wrapped caramels with similar results

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Serving Suggestions

Cut Carmelitas into small squares for parties or larger bars for bake sales These pair wonderfully with coffee or milk I often serve them slightly warmed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a true dessert treat

Cultural and Historical Context

Carmelitas are a nostalgic dessert that became popular in the American Midwest They are beloved for their simple assembly and indulgent flavor layers many families pass this recipe down through generations and it appears at community bake sales and holidays alike

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use homemade cookie dough instead of store-bought?

Yes, homemade chocolate chip cookie dough can be used. Ensure it's soft enough to press and forms an even base and topping.

→ What’s the best way to melt caramels quickly?

Combine unwrapped caramels with evaporated milk and microwave in one-minute bursts, stirring until smooth and pourable.

→ How should I store the bars for optimal texture?

Once cooled, store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can these bars be frozen for later?

Wrap bars tightly in plastic wrap and freeze in a container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

→ Do the bars need to be fully cooled before cutting?

Yes, cooling and chilling the bars make slicing easier and help the caramel set for cleaner cuts.