Name: Caramel Oat Slice
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Australian
Ingredients: 195 g plain flour (all-purpose flour); 1 ½ cups rolled oats (not quick oats); 150 g light brown sugar; 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon fine sea salt; 145 g unsalted butter, melted; 1 teaspoon vanilla; 1 can (395 g / 14 oz) sweetened condensed milk; ¼ cup golden syrup (or corn/glucose syrup); 85 g unsalted butter; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt (optional)

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This Caramel Oat Slice is the perfect balance of chewy oats and luscious caramel. With its buttery oat layers sandwiching a rich, golden caramel filling, it’s a quick and satisfying treat that’s both comforting and slightly addictive. Whether you’re serving it for afternoon tea, packing it for lunchboxes, or indulging in a midnight snack, this slice is sure to become a household favorite.

Caramel Oat Slice

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This caramel oat slice is not only incredibly simple to make, but it’s also packed with irresistible flavor and texture. The crumbly oat topping gives a delightful crunch while the caramel center melts in your mouth. It’s a no-fuss dessert that doesn’t require a mixer, and you can use pantry staples you likely already have. It’s freezer-friendly, great for make-ahead baking, and works beautifully for both casual and special occasions.

Ingredients

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

Base and Topping:

195 g plain flour (all-purpose flour)
1 ½ cups rolled oats (not quick oats)
150 g light brown sugar
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon fine sea salt
145 g unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla

Filling:

1 can full-fat sweetened condensed milk (395g/14oz)
¼ cup golden syrup (or glucose or corn syrup)
85 g unsalted butter
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon flaky sea salt (optional)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan-forced) / 350°F. Line a 23cm/9 inch square baking pan with baking paper or use an 18cmx28cm / 7×11 inch slice tin.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, baking powder, and fine sea salt. Mix well.
Add the melted butter and vanilla to the dry ingredients. Stir until the mixture is fully combined.
Press just over half of the mixture into the prepared baking pan to form the base. Bake for 12 minutes.
While the base is baking, make the caramel. In a medium saucepan over low-medium heat, combine the condensed milk, golden syrup, and butter. Stir constantly for 10–12 minutes until the mixture thickens and turns a golden color. For a gooier caramel, cook 1–2 minutes less.
Stir in the vanilla extract and sea salt (if using).
Pour the caramel evenly over the pre-baked base.
Crumble the remaining oat mixture over the caramel layer.
Bake for another 15 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
Allow to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.

Servings and timing

Yield: 16 servings
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Chocolate Drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle with melted dark or milk chocolate for an extra decadent layer.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or almonds to the oat mixture for added texture.
Spiced Twist: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and certified gluten-free oats.
Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free condensed milk and plant-based butter for a vegan-friendly treat.

Storage/Reheating

Store the caramel oat slice in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 10 days or freeze for up to 2 months. To serve, bring to room temperature or warm briefly in the microwave for a softer texture.

FAQs

What is golden syrup and can I substitute it?

Golden syrup is a thick, amber-colored syrup with a distinct caramel flavor. You can substitute it with light corn syrup or glucose syrup, but the flavor will be milder.

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Rolled oats give a better texture, but in a pinch, you can use quick oats. Just note the final slice will be slightly softer.

How do I know when the caramel is ready?

The caramel is ready when it thickens and turns golden in color after about 10–12 minutes of cooking while stirring constantly.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, this slice is great for make-ahead baking. It stores well and the flavors deepen over time.

Can I freeze caramel oat slice?

Absolutely. Once cooled and sliced, place the pieces in a freezer-safe container with parchment between layers. Freeze for up to 2 months.

How do I prevent the caramel from overcooking?

Keep the heat on low-medium and stir constantly. Removing it slightly before it thickens fully can help if you prefer gooier caramel.

Is this slice too sweet?

It is sweet, as expected from a caramel dessert, but the oats and sea salt balance the sweetness nicely. You can reduce the sugar slightly in the base if needed.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double the ingredients and use a larger baking pan (such as a 9×13 inch) to accommodate the extra volume.

Do I need to refrigerate the slice?

Not necessarily. It keeps well at room temperature, but refrigerating extends its shelf life.

Why is my caramel layer hard?

Overcooking the caramel or using high heat can make it too firm. Cook gently and remove from heat as soon as it thickens.

Conclusion

Caramel Oat Slice is a delightful treat with the perfect contrast of chewy oats and smooth caramel. It’s quick to prepare, rich in flavor, and versatile enough to suit various preferences and occasions. Whether you enjoy it as a snack, dessert, or coffee companion, this slice is bound to satisfy your sweet cravings every time.