Caramel Apple Bars

Step 1

Heat oven to 400°F.

Step 2

Mix brown sugar, butter and shortening in large bowl until smooth and well blended.

Step 3

Stir in 1 3/4 cups flour, the oats, salt and baking soda until crumbly.

Step 4

Reserve 2 cups oat mixture; press remaining oat mixture in ungreased 13x9-inch pan.

Step 5

In large bowl, toss apples and remaining 3 tablespoons of the flour. Top crust evenly with apple mixture.

Step 6

In small saucepan, heat caramels over low heat, stirring occasionally, until melted.

Step 7

Drizzle melted caramel evenly over apples.

Step 8

Sprinkle reserved oat mixture over caramels; press lightly.

Step 9

Bake 25 to 30 minutes or until apples are tender and topping is golden brown.

Step 10

Cool at least 20 minutes on cooling rack before serving. For 36 bars, cut into 6 rows by 6 rows while warm. Store covered in refrigerator.