Quick and Easy Carmelitas

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Carmelitas require minimal prep time with no complicated steps, yet they deliver a perfect balance of sweet caramel and chocolate flavors inside a chewy cookie crust. The simplicity of using refrigerated cookie dough and caramel bits makes it accessible for all skill levels and busy schedules. Plus, they’re always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 30 oz refrigerated chocolate chip cookie dough (1 roll)
• 11 oz KRAFT caramels (1 bag)
• ¼ cup evaporated milk
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Prepare Cookie Dough Base: Press half of the cookie dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
3. Make Caramel Layer: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine caramels and evaporated milk. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and melted.
4. Assemble Layers: Pour the melted caramel evenly over the cookie dough base. Sprinkle semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly over the caramel.
5. Top with Remaining Cookie Dough: Break the remaining cookie dough into small pieces and scatter evenly over the chocolate chips, gently pressing down slightly.
6. Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and caramel is bubbling.
7. Cool and Slice: Allow to cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars.

Servings and timing

• Makes about 24 bars
• Preparation time: 10 minutes
• Baking time: 30-35 minutes
• Cooling time: 30 minutes
• Total time: about 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts between layers for crunch.
• Use dark or milk chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet.
• Sprinkle sea salt on top before baking for a salted caramel twist.
• Substitute caramel bits with homemade caramel sauce.
• Add a layer of shredded coconut for extra texture and flavor.

storage/reheating

Store Carmelitas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep refrigerated for up to 1 week. Reheat briefly in the microwave if desired to soften.

FAQs

Can I use homemade cookie dough?

Yes, homemade chocolate chip cookie dough works great in this recipe.

What if I don’t have evaporated milk?

You can substitute with heavy cream or whole milk, but the caramel may be less creamy.

Can I freeze Carmelitas?

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

How do I prevent the top cookie dough layer from burning?

Cover loosely with foil halfway through baking if browning too quickly.

Can I use caramel sauce instead of caramel bits?

Yes, but adjust quantity and thickness accordingly.

Are Carmelitas gluten-free?

Not with traditional cookie dough; use gluten-free dough for a gluten-free version.

Can I add other mix-ins?

Chopped nuts, dried fruit, or candy pieces can be added between layers.

How thick should the cookie dough layers be?

Press the base evenly and break the top layer into small pieces to cover evenly.

Can I make smaller bars?

Yes, cut into smaller pieces for bite-sized treats.

How do I store leftover bars?

Keep in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Conclusion

Quick and Easy Carmelitas are a decadent, foolproof dessert combining caramel, chocolate, and cookie dough layers in a simple, satisfying bar. Perfect for busy bakers and sweet tooth cravings alike, these bars are sure to become a favorite for any occasion.

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