Salted Caramel Chocolate Oat Bars Recipe

There is something truly magical about the combination of rich chocolate, buttery oats, and luscious caramel that makes Salted Caramel Chocolate Oat Bars Recipe an absolute showstopper. These bars capture that perfect balance of sweet, salty, and gooey in every bite, making them a beloved treat that feels both indulgent and comforting. Whether you’re craving a dessert for your next gathering or a snack that satisfies your sweet tooth with a homemade touch, this recipe delivers just that with its layered textures and heavenly flavors.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t be intimidated by the layers; the ingredients for the Salted Caramel Chocolate Oat Bars Recipe are simple and straightforward, yet each one plays a crucial role in creating that perfect taste and texture. From the golden melted butter that brings richness to the mix, to the wholesome oats that add chewiness and nutty flavor, every element is essential.

• Salted butter, 3/4 cup melted: Provides a rich, creamy base and keeps the oat crust moist and tender.
• Brown sugar, 2/3 cup packed: Adds deep caramel notes and sweetness that pairs perfectly with the oats.
• Vanilla extract, 1 tablespoon: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, sweet aroma.
• All-purpose flour, 1 1/4 cups: Gives structure to the oat layers and helps bind everything together.
• Rolled oats, 1 1/4 cups: Adds texture and a wholesome, chewy bite that complements the caramel.
• Baking soda, 1 teaspoon: Helps the oat crust rise slightly and stay light instead of dense.
• Salt, 1/2 teaspoon divided: Balances the sweetness and enhances the salted caramel flavor.
• Caramel squares, 40 pieces: The star ingredient creating that ooey-gooey, melt-in-your-mouth caramel layer.
• Heavy cream, 1/3 cup: Combines with caramel for a silky, smooth filling.
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips, 1 1/2 cups: Adds rich pockets of chocolate flavor and pairs brilliantly with the salted caramel.

How to Make Salted Caramel Chocolate Oat Bars Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (177 degrees Celsius). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper and grease it lightly to prevent sticking. This step is key for easy removal of your bars once baked and ensures the caramel layer doesn’t stick to the pan.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Mixture

In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the salted butter. Whisk in the brown sugar and vanilla extract until the mixture becomes smooth and glossy. This base is where all the buttery sweetness begins and gets incorporated with the oats and flour to make the perfect crust and topping.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Add the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, baking soda, and half of the salt to the butter mixture. Using a pastry cutter or fork, mix everything together until crumbly but evenly combined. This crumbly texture is essential for both the base and the topping layers, offering a buttery crispness once baked.

Step 4: Form the Base

Press about half of this oat mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. This forms a sturdy yet tender crust that will hold up under the caramel and chocolate layers. Bake this crust for 10 minutes until it’s slightly set and starting to turn golden.

Step 5: Prepare the Caramel Filling

While your crust bakes, combine the caramel squares, heavy cream, and the remaining salt in a large microwave-safe bowl. Heat the mixture in the microwave on high for one minute, then stir. Repeat heating for another minute and stir until you get a smooth, velvety caramel sauce. Be careful not to overheat to avoid the caramel from seizing.

Step 6: Layer the Chocolate

Right after removing the crust from the oven, sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly over the hot crust. The warmth will begin to melt the chocolate slightly, preparing the perfect sticky layer for the caramel on top.

Step 7: Add the Caramel Layer

Pour the warm, silky caramel sauce evenly over the layer of chocolate chips, making sure it covers all the chocolate completely. The combination of the melted chocolate and caramel will create a luscious filling that is the heart of these bars.

Step 8: Top with Remaining Crust

Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture over the caramel layer, gently pressing it down to create a rustic, crumbly topping. This last bit adds that signature oat crunch and completes the texture contrast with the smooth caramel and melted chocolate.

Step 9: Bake the Bars

Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes or until the top is lightly browned and set. This baking step ensures the bars hold their shape while the edges crisp up beautifully.

Step 10: Cooling and Slicing

Remove the pan and place it on a wire rack to cool completely. For perfectly clean bars and to keep the caramel from oozing out, let the pan sit at room temperature overnight or chill it in the fridge for at least 3 hours before slicing. Then cut into 16 squares and serve!

How to Serve Salted Caramel Chocolate Oat Bars Recipe

Garnishes

A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt over the top just before serving can really elevate these bars, enhancing the salted caramel flavor even more. For an extra touch, add a drizzle of melted chocolate or a scattering of chopped nuts like pecans for added texture and nutty flavor.

Side Dishes

These bars are a perfect pairing with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Fresh berries, such as raspberries or strawberries, also complement the rich flavors by adding a refreshing brightness that balances the indulgence.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond just serving the bars on a plate. Present these with a rustic wooden board or in a glass jar layered with crumbled bars and cream for a fun parfait. Wrapping individual bars in parchment and tying them with twine also makes a charming gift or party favor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Salted Caramel Chocolate Oat Bars Recipe keeps beautifully at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer freshness, store them in the refrigerator, tightly wrapped to maintain moisture balance and prevent the caramel from getting too sticky.

Freezing

You can freeze these bars for up to 2 months. Cut them into squares, wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, and store in a freezer container or bag. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying to bring back their chewy, gooey goodness.

Reheating

If you like your bars warm, gently reheat them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a low oven until soft. This helps revive the ooey caramel and melty chocolate layers, recapturing that freshly baked magic.

FAQs

Can I use light brown sugar instead of dark brown sugar?

Absolutely! Light brown sugar will still give you a delicious caramel flavor, though slightly milder than dark brown sugar. It won’t change the texture much, so feel free to use what you have.

Is there a gluten-free option for the flour?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend that includes xanthan gum for structure. Make sure the oats are certified gluten-free as well to keep it safe for gluten sensitivities.

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of caramel squares?

You can, but caramel squares melted with heavy cream give a richer, more controlled caramel layer that sets nicely in bars. Store-bought sauces may make the filling softer or more runny, so adjust chilling time accordingly.

What’s the best way to keep the oat topping crispy?

Baking the bars until the oat topping is lightly browned is key. Also, letting the bars cool completely and storing them properly in an airtight container will help maintain the crisp texture.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to the bars?

Definitely! Chopped pecans, walnuts, or even toasted coconut can add great texture and flavor. Just sprinkle them with the oats when layering or incorporate them in the oat mixture before baking.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a treat that perfectly blends sweet, salty, chewy, and gooey textures, the Salted Caramel Chocolate Oat Bars Recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Easy enough to make at home, yet impressive enough to wow friends and family, these bars truly bring comfort and indulgence in every bite. Give it a try and watch how quickly they disappear—this recipe is pure deliciousness you’ll want to share again and again!

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