Oatmeal Caramelites

Not long after I met my husband, he introduced me to these sinful bars, Oatmeal Caramelites.  They are a favorite in his family and I can see why.  They aren't something that I make too often due to their high calories content (maybe a couple times a year) but there isn't much that can beat them.  

While I have been making these for years, I recently saw them featured on The Sisters Cafe .  I was so glad that I looked at their recipe because it cured me of my least favorite part about making these!  Unwrapping the bag of caramels and melting them!  I don't know why I never though of it, but their recipe uses caramel ice cream topping thickened with a bit of flour.  Genius!  Now those pesky wrappers won't keep me from making these.  Jeans, beware!

   

Oatmeal Caramelites

1 c. flour

1 c. quick oats (can also use regular oats)

3/4 c. brown sugar

1 c. chocolate chip (semi-sweet or milk are both fine)

3/4 c. caramel ice cream topping

1/2 tsp. soda

1/4 tsp. salt

3/4 c. butter, melted

3 Tbsp. flour

Mix flour, oats, sugar, soda, salt, and butter.  Press half of mixture into a 11 x 7 inch pan and set the other half aside.  Bake at 350 degrees for 10 minutes.  Remove from oven.

Sprinkle with chocolate chips.  Blend 3/4 c. caramel with 3 Tbsp. flour.  Drizzle over chocolate chips.  Sprinkle the remaining oat/flour mixture over the top.  

Bake at 350 degrees for 15-20 minutes or until light brown.  Cool, then slice.