Nothing beats a gorgeous caramel Slice - except one that is made in one pot!
This oaty caramel slice is quick and easy to make, with a buttery oat base, a gooey caramel middle and a crumbly oat topping. Better still, you make the base and topping in the same pot, which means fewer dishes to wash.
And the oats make it healthy – right?!
When I was growing up, Mum would make tan square most weeks when she filled the cake tins for school and work lunches. This recipe is a variation of that classic tan slice she used to make, from a recipe she found in a Southland Women's Hockey Team fundraising cookbook.
It's the sort of recipe I love – simple ingredients, no fancy equipment and perfect for filling the smoko tin. It also doubles really easily if you're feeding a crowd.
If you are looking for other one pot recipe idea; Try Mandy's Chocolate cake!

Tips for the Best Oaty Caramel Slice
Do I need to cook the base first?
No. That's one of the reasons this recipe is so easy. Simply press three-quarters of the oat mixture into the tin, spread over the warm caramel, sprinkle over the remaining mixture and bake it all together.
Why do I heat the caramel first?
Warming the canned caramel makes it much easier to spread evenly over the oat base. Keep the heat low and stir often so it doesn't catch on the bottom of the pot.
How do I know when the slice is ready?
The topping should be lightly golden and the caramel will be bubbling. I usually bake mine for about 15 minutes, but every oven is a little different.
Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely. This recipe doubles really well and is a great option when you need plenty of baking for smoko, a shared morning tea or to feed a crowd.
Can I freeze oaty caramel slice?
Yes. Once completely cold, cut the slice into pieces and store them in an airtight container in the freezer. It's handy to have tucked away when you need something for smoko in a hurry.
What can I use instead of canned caramel?
If you don't have a can of caramel, you can use a traditional tan square-style caramel made with condensed milk, golden syrup and butter.

If you like this recipe you may like to check out these other caramel slice recipes.
Vj's crispy cashew caramel slice https://vjcooks.com/cashew-caramel-slice/
Laura's chocolate caramel slice https://www.thekiwicountrygirl.com/chocolate-caramel-slice/

One Pot Oaty Caramel Slice
Equipment
- Pot
- Wooden spoon/danish dough whisk
- Pudding spoon
- Spatula
Ingredients
- 150 grams butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup flour
- 1½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1½ cups rolled oats
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 can caramel (395 grams)
Instructions
- Pre heat your oven to 180°.
- Line a 27x17cm brownie tin.
- Place the butter and brown sugar into a pot and melt over a low heat.
- Take the pot off of the heat and use your danish dough whisk (or wooden spoon) to add the flour, baking powder, rolled oats and salt.
- Press ¾ of the mixture into your lined tin and use a clean wet hand to squish all the mixture into the corners.
- Use the back of a spoon to press down on the base to get an even coverage.
- Heat your can of caramel. Making sure to stir it often to avoid the caramel burning. You want the caramel to be a smooth consistency to spread over your base.
- Pour the hot caramel over your base and sprinkle the remaining base mixture over the top.
- Bake the slice for 15 minutes.
- Cool in the tin and cut once cold.
- Store in an airtight tin or container.






If I don’t have a can of caramel, can I use condensed milk with some golden syrup ? Or what alternative?
Hi Rachel, yes a traditional tan square recipe for caramel would also work well. Condensed milk, golden syrup and butter.