Caramel Apple Bars

Do you have extra apples but don't feel like making a pie? Try this easy-to-make bar with layers of brown sugar and oats surrounding apples and melted caramel. Makes 36 bars

• Ready In: 1 hr
• Serves: 36

Ingredients

• 1  cup  packed brown sugar
• 1⁄2 cup butter or 1⁄2 cup margarine, softened
• 1⁄4 cup shortening
• 1 3⁄4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1⁄2 cups quick-cooking oats
• 1  teaspoon salt
• 1⁄2 teaspoon baking soda
• 4 1⁄2 cups  coarsely chopped peeled tart apples (3 medium)
• 3  tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 (14 ounce) bag  caramels

Directions

1. Heat oven to 400ºF.
2. Mix brown sugar, butter and shortening in large bowl.
3. Stir in 1¾ cups flour, the oats, salt and baking soda.
4. Reserve 2 cups oat mixture; press remaining oat mixture in ungreased rectangular pan, 13x9x2 inches.
5. Toss apples and 3 tablespoons flour; spread over mixture in pan.
6. Heat caramels over low heat, stirring occasionally, until melted; pour evenly over apples.
7. Sprinkle with reserved oat mixture; press lightly.
8. Bake 25 to 30 minutes or until topping is golden brown and apples are tender.
9. For 36 bars, cut into 6 rows by 6 rows while warm.
10. Store covered in refrigerator.