Caramel Oatmeal Bars

Preheat oven to 350°. Lightly grease 9X13 pan.

Over stove on medium heat, melt together:

32 unwrapped caramels (14 ozs)
½ C evaporated milk

Keep mixture warm on low heat while doing next step.

In separate bowl, mix together:

2 C flour
2 C oatmeal
1-1/2 C brown sugar, lightly packed
1-1/2 C butter, room temp
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt

1. Press half of oatmeal mixture into a 9×13 pan, reserving other half for later use. Bake at 350° for 10-12 minutes.

2. Remove from oven and sprinkle with chocolate chips to cover (sparsely).

3. Pour caramel mixture on top, then press on remaining oatmeal mixture.

4. Bake another 20-25 minutes–until top crust is golden and somewhat firm.

5. Cool, cut and enjoy!