Indulge in the ultimate treat with these decadent Chocolate Caramel Oatmeal Bars—a perfect fusion of chewy, buttery oatmeal layers, gooey caramel, and rich semi-sweet chocolate. Made with pantry staples like rolled oats, brown sugar, and flour, these bars are elevated by the luscious combination of melted caramel candies and a hint of vanilla, creating an irresistible dessert that's both comforting and luxurious. With just 20 minutes of prep and a few simple steps, these layered bars come together beautifully, featuring a golden, crumbly topping that complements the smooth caramel and chocolate center. Ideal for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth at home, these oatmeal bars are as easy to make as they are to enjoy. Try them warm or let them cool completely for a firm, sliceable treat that will have everyone reaching for seconds!
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
In a large bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt.
Pour the melted butter into the dry ingredients and stir until well combined. The mixture should be crumbly.
Press half of the oatmeal mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, forming an even layer. Reserve the other half for later.
Bake the base layer in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and set aside.
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the unwrapped caramel candies and heavy cream. Heat in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.
Stir the vanilla extract into the caramel mixture and pour it over the baked oatmeal crust. Spread evenly with a spatula.
Sprinkle the chocolate chips over the caramel layer.
Crumble the reserved oatmeal mixture over the chocolate and caramel layers, pressing gently to adhere.
Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 15-18 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack, about 2 hours. The caramel will firm up as they cool.
Once cooled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang and cut into 16 squares.
Serve and enjoy! Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Calories |
5914 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 272.9 g | 350% | |
| Saturated Fat | 166.4 g | 832% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 431 mg | 144% | |
| Sodium | 1752 mg | 76% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 874.8 g | 318% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 33.9 g | 121% | |
| Total Sugars | 534.5 g | ||
| Protein | 56.8 g | 114% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.2 mcg | 11% | |
| Calcium | 511 mg | 39% | |
| Iron | 20.4 mg | 113% | |
| Potassium | 1401 mg | 30% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.