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A stack of three Gluten-Free Oatmeal Carmelita Bars, showcasing the crumbly oat topping and gooey caramel and chocolate layers. The bars are surrounded by pecans and chocolate chips on a white plate.

Gluten-Free Oatmeal Carmelita Bars

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These indulgent oatmeal caramel bars are the perfect balance of sweet and crunchy, with a rich caramel filling.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 32 minutes
Chill Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 52 minutes
Servings: 16
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 246
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour such as King Arthur brand or your favorite brand
  • 1 cup gluten-free quick oats use certified gluten-free oats
  • ¾ cup coconut sugar or brown sugar
  • ¾ cup salted butter softened use unsalted butter for a less salty taste
  • ¼ teaspoon sea salt adjust if using unsalted butter
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda helps the crust rise
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract adds depth to flavor
  • ¾ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips use gluten-free brand
  • ¾ cup chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch choose fresh nuts
  • ½ cup caramel sauce use a gluten-free caramel sauce such as Smucker's or homemade
  • 1 tablespoon gluten-free all-purpose flour helps thicken the caramel sauce

Method
 

  1. Mix the gluten-free flour, quick oats, coconut sugar, softened butter, baking soda, sea salt, and vanilla extract in a stand mixer on low speed until the mixture forms crumbs.
  2. Press half of the crumb mixture into the bottom of an 8" square baking dish lined with parchment paper (reserve the other half for the topping).
  3. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12 minutes.
  4. Once the crust is done baking, immediately sprinkle chopped nuts and chocolate chips over the warm crust.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together the caramel sauce and 1 tablespoon gluten-free flour until smooth. Pour over the nuts and chocolate chips, then sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture on top.
  6. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden.
  7. Let the bars cool completely in the baking dish before chilling them in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours.
  8. Once chilled, lift the bars out using the parchment paper and slice into 16 bars.

Nutrition

Serving: 1BarCalories: 246kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 3gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 0.4gCholesterol: 23mgSodium: 179mgPotassium: 94mgFiber: 2gSugar: 13gVitamin A: 279IUVitamin C: 0.1mgCalcium: 23mgIron: 1mg

Notes

These delicious bars offer a chewy texture with the crunch of nuts and the sweetness of caramel. They’re best after chilling, making them perfect for sharing or keeping on hand for sweet cravings.

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