Oatmeal Carmelitas

These might be the most delicious bars you can make with the least amount of effort.  When I needed to make a dessert in college, I would make these bars.  And if an overtired college student with a understocked kitchen and pantry can whip these bad boys out, then you know they're easy!  Happy Monday!

Oatmeal Carmelitas

2 cups + 3 Tbsp flour

2 cups oats (quick or old fashioned)

1 1/2 cups brown sugar

1 1/4 cups unsalted butter, softened

1 tsp baking soda

1/2 tsp salt

1 jar Smuckers caramel topping (about 1 cup)

1 cup chocolate chips

1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Heat oven to 350 degrees.  Spray a 9x13 pan with nonstick spray.  Beat 2 cups flour, oats, brown sugar, butter, baking soda, and salt on low speed until crumbly.  Reserve about 3 cups of crumbs for topping.  Press other half of crumbs into the bottom of the greased pan.  Bake for 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, stir caramel topping and 3 Tbsp flour until blended.  Once the crust is done baking, sprinkle chocolate chips and nuts over baked base.  Drizzle evenly with the caramel mixture; sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture over top. Bake 18-22 minutes longer, or until golden brown.  Cool completely in pan for one hour.  Refrigerate 1-2 hours or until filling is set.  Cut into bars and store in refrigerator.