Kelly'S Karamels
Delicious caramel oatmeal bars with chocolate chips, combining rich caramel, chewy oats, and sweet chocolate for a satisfying treat perfect for sharing at gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the caramel candies with water in the microwave until smooth.
- Mix flour, oatmeal, brown sugar, margarine, baking soda, and salt in a bowl.
- Save 1 cup of the oatmeal mixture for topping.
- Press the remaining oatmeal mixture into a greased 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Bake for 10 minutes at 350°F.
- Sprinkle chocolate chips evenly over the baked crust.
- Pour the caramel mixture over the chocolate chips.
- Crumble the reserved 1 cup of oatmeal mixture on top of the caramel layer.
- Bake for an additional 15 minutes at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown butter instead of regular margarine. You can substitute half of the chocolate chips with white chocolate chips for a different taste. If you'd like a nuttier texture, feel free to add chopped nuts to the topping. Make sure to keep an eye on the bars while baking to avoid over-browning.
Serving Suggestions
These caramel bars are delightful on their own but also pair well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert. For a refreshing drink, serve alongside Sweet Williams Homemade Lemonade. They can also be cut into smaller pieces for a perfect addition to a dessert platter at gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover caramel bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to soften slightly before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kelly'S Karamels contains roughly 320 calories, with 6g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of sugar in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute granulated sugar for brown sugar, but it will change the flavor slightly. Brown sugar adds moisture and a deeper flavor, while granulated sugar will yield a lighter texture. You can also try coconut sugar for a healthier option.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when the top is golden brown and set. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. Keep in mind that they will continue to firm up as they cool.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the chocolate chips and other ingredients are also gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy a delicious gluten-free version of these caramel bars.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).