Caramel-Oatmeal Chewy Bars

Very chewy and delicious. Cook time includes 10 minutes baking of crust.

• Ready In: 45 mins
• Yields: 36 bars

Ingredients

• 1 3⁄4 cups  raw rolled oats
• 1 1⁄2 cups flour
• 3⁄4 cup  packed light brown sugar
• 1⁄2 teaspoon baking soda
• 3⁄4 cup margarine, melted
• 1  cup  nuts, chopped
• 1  cup bittersweet chocolate chips
• 1 (14 ounce) bag  caramel candies
• 1⁄4 cup water

Directions

1. Grease 9 x 13" pan.
2. Combine the first 4 ingredients.
3. Add margarine and mix together till crumbly.
4. Reserve 1 cup for topping.
5. Press remaining into bottom of pan.
6. Bake for 10 minutes at 350°.
7. Top with nuts and chocolate.
8. Melt caramel with water over low heat till smooth. Remove.
9. Drizzle over nuts and chocolate to within 1/4" of pan edge.
10. Sprinkly with reserved oat mix.
11. Bake 15 to 18 minutes till golden. Cool.
12. Chill till chocolate is set.
13. Cut into bars. Cover tightly.
14. Freezes well.