Graham Cracker Carmelitas – Decadent Caramel Chocolate Bars with a Buttery Crunchy
Graham Cracker Carmelitas are rich dessert bars made with a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy caramel layer, and decadent chocolate filling. These easy-to-make treats require minimal preparation while delivering bakery-style flavor and texture. The crunchy crust contrasts beautifully with the soft caramel and melted chocolate, creating a dessert that is perfect for any occasion. Whether served at parties, holidays, or enjoyed as an everyday sweet treat, these caramel bars are sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
Graham Cracker Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup melted unsalted butter
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Caramel Chocolate Filling
- 1 cup soft caramel candies
- 3 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, brown sugar, and salt in a bowl.
- Bake the crust for 8–10 minutes until lightly golden.
- Melt caramel candies with heavy cream over low heat until smooth.
- Sprinkle chocolate chips over the baked crust.
- Add the remaining graham cracker mixture on top.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes until golden and bubbling.
- Cool completely before slicing into bars.
- Sprinkle with sea salt or extra chocolate if desired.
Notes
- Allow the bars to cool fully before cutting for clean slices.
- Use high-quality caramel for the best flavor.
- Press the crust firmly to prevent crumbling.
- Add sea salt to balance the sweetness.
- Milk chocolate can be used for a sweeter version.
- Dark chocolate creates a richer flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- These bars taste even better the next day.