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.
