Carmelite Bars are a delicious treat that perfectly combines the flavors of chocolate, caramel, and a crumbly shortbread crust. These mouthwatering dessert bars are a hit for any occasion, bringing rich flavors that everyone can enjoy. Whether served at a family gathering, a potluck, or simply as a sweet indulgence at home, they never fail to impress.
Why We Love This Carmelite Bars
You’ll adore Carmelite Bars for their incredible balance of textures and flavors. The shortbread crust offers a tender, buttery foundation, while the smooth caramel layer brings a delightful richness. Topped with chocolate, these bars provide a satisfying crunch on top of the creamy goodness beneath. They are simple to make and require minimal ingredients, making them an accessible choice for bakers of all levels. Furthermore, their beautiful presentation transforms any dessert table, ensuring you receive compliments from your friends and family. The combination of flavors, ease of preparation, and satisfying outcome truly sets these bars apart, making them a beloved dessert choice.
Ingredients for Carmelite Bars
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2/3 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
Directions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal of the bars after baking.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until it is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
Gradually blend in the flour and salt. The mixture will resemble coarse crumbs. Reserve one cup of this mixture for the topping.
Press the remaining mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract over medium heat. Stir constantly until it comes to a gentle boil and thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
Pour the caramel mixture over the crust, spreading it evenly.
Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture over the caramel layer evenly, followed by an even distribution of chocolate chips on top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the topping is golden brown.
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool completely before cutting into bars.
How to Serve Carmelite Bars
Serve your Carmelite Bars in a variety of ways to suit different occasions and preferences. These bars shine fresh out of the oven, still warm with a gooey texture that melts in your mouth. Cut them into squares or rectangles and place them on a dessert platter. For a delightful presentation, consider dusting the top with powdered sugar before serving, adding an elegant touch. You might also enjoy serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to complement the rich flavors. Pair them with fresh fruit, such as strawberries or raspberries, for a refreshing contrast. If you’re hosting a celebration or a special event, serve the bars alongside coffee or tea, allowing your guests to indulge in a warm beverage paired with the sweet treats.
Expert Tips for Carmelite Bars
Crafting the perfect Carmelite Bars can be a breeze with some expert tips in mind. First, ensure your butter is at room temperature for smoother creaming with sugar. If using chilled butter, you risk having a grainy texture in your crust. For the caramel layer, keep the heat on medium, avoiding high temperatures that can lead to burning. Frequent stirring is key to achieving a silky consistency. When baking, closely watch the topping as it can change color quickly; it should be golden brown but not too dark. Let the bars cool completely in the pan, as cutting too early may cause them to be messy and difficult to handle. Lastly, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to maintain their deliciousness, or freeze them for longer storage.
How to Store Carmelite Bars
Storing Carmelite Bars properly will help maintain their freshness and taste. Once the bars cool completely, transfer them into an airtight container. Layer parchment paper between the bars to prevent them from sticking to each other. In most kitchens, these bars stay delicious for about a week at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and heat. If you plan to enjoy them beyond this, consider freezing them instead. Wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. When stored correctly, they can last up to three months in the freezer. Thaw frozen bars at room temperature for easy enjoyment later.
Variations of Carmelite Bars
Though traditional Carmelite Bars are delightful, trying out variations can bring new flavors into the mix. For a nutty twist, consider adding chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the caramel layer before topping with chocolate. If you enjoy a touch of spice, adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the crust can elevate the flavor profile. You could also create a peppermint version by using peppermint extract in place of vanilla and sprinkling crushed peppermint candies on top of the chocolate layer. For those who love a fruit twist, layer thin slices of bananas or apples on top of the caramel before adding the chocolate chips. Finally, play around with different types of chocolate; dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate can transform these bars and cater to varying palates.
FAQ about Carmelite Bars
What are Carmelite Bars?
Carmelite Bars are dessert squares made with a buttery shortbread crust, a creamy caramel layer, and a rich chocolate topping. They are known for their delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Can I make Carmelite Bars ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Carmelite Bars a day or two in advance. Store them in an airtight container to preserve their freshness.
What can I serve with Carmelite Bars?
Carmelite Bars pair well with coffee or tea and are delicious with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a sweet indulgence.
How do I prevent my caramel from burning?
Keep the heat on medium and stir constantly. Monitoring the temperature closely will help maintain a smooth caramel texture without burning.
Can I freeze Carmelite Bars?
Yes, you can freeze Carmelite Bars. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container. They can last up to three months in the freezer.