Carmelita Bars are a decadent thing

Sweetcakes here, nearly through the coldest month of the year. It's been a harsh January here in Salt Lake City. Tonight, there is snow to clear out the inversion, I have a new blue pedicure to give me a little cheer, and I've had a productive day of writing. All is well. Hope the same for you.

Tasters, these sweet things will match your sweet tooth. A little piece is all you need. They're very easy to make, but they involve a number of steps.

1 bag Kraft caramels
3/8 cup evaporated milk
1 cup flour
1 cup quick oats
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
3/4 cup brown sugar
1 1/2 sticks meleted butter
3/4 cup chopped walnuts
8 ounces chocolate chips
½ cup shredded coconut

In the microwave, melt the caramels with evaporated milk on high for two minutes. Stir, then return the to the microwave for two additional minutes. Stir and set the mixture aside to cool.

Mix flour, oats, salt, baking soda, and brown sugar.

Pour in melted butter and stir.

Press half of this mixture into an 8x8-inch greased pan. Bake at 350°F for 12 minutes. Remove from the oven.

Sprinkle chopped nuts, chocolate chips, and shredded coconut over the top.

Spread caramel mixture on the top.

Sprinkle the rest of crumb mixture evenly across top. Bake 25 minutes more at 350°F.

Cool for two hours, then cut into small squares.

Serve with a large glass of milk or coffee. And a big glass of water. As I mentioned, these bars are decadent and rich.

Weighting & Weighting

Darling, Clementine