Recipe: Caramel Oat Bar Mix

I did not find your recipe on the internet. Perhaps you could adapt this recipe omitting the chocolate chips. Good luck and please let us know how you make out.

---

CARAMEL OAT BAR MIX

"In Boise, Idaho, Jennifer Jensen keeps a big batch of this oat mixture on hand, so she can bake these rich treats in a hurry. The moist bars get extra sweetness from caramel ice cream topping and chocolate chips."

FOR THE OAT BAR MIX:
3 cups all-purpose flour
3 cups quick-cooking oats
1 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup sugar
3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 1/2 cups shortening

In a large bowl, combine the first six ingredients. Cut in shortening until crumbly. Store in an airtight container in a cool dry place for up to 6 months.

Contents of mix may settle during storage. When preparing recipe, spoon mix into measuring cup.

Makes enough mix for 3 batches of bars (about 8 1/3 cups total)

TO MAKE ONE BATCH OF CARAMEL OAT BARS:
1/2 cup butter, softened
1/3 cup sugar
2 3/4 cups Oat Bar Mix
1 cup (6 ounces) semisweet chocolate chips
1 (12 ounces) jar caramel ice cream topping, heated

In a small bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add 2 3/4 cups oat mix, beating until combined. Press 1 1/2 cups into a greased 13x9-inch baking pan.

Bake at 350 degrees F for 10 minutes.

Sprinkle with the chocolate chips. Drizzle with caramel topping and carefully spread evenly to within 1/4-inch of edges. Drop remaining oat mixture by teaspoonfuls over the top.

Bake 15-18 minutes longer or until bubbly and lightly browned (caramel mixture will not be set). Remove to a wire rack to cool completely before cutting.

Makes 2 1/2 to 3 dozen bars per batch
Source: Taste of Home magazine