Caramel Chocolate Oat Bars

This recipe was adapted from recipe#124395 posted on this site (one of my all-time favorite bars!)! . These bars have a delicious chocolate-caramel filling, they are the best!! The oat crust/topping bakes out tender and light.

Steps

Set oven to 350 degrees.

Set oven rack to second-lowest position.

Butter a 13 x 9-inch baking pan.

For the crust.

In a large bowl mix together the cake mix with oatmeal , brown sugar and cinnamon.

In a small bowl whisk together the melted butter , lemon juice and egg until well blended.

Add to the oat mixture , using clean hands combine the ingredients until mixture barely holds together.

Sprinkle two-thirds of the oat mixture into the bottom of the pan.

Pat down with hands to spread evenly.

Bake for 5 minutes.

Remove from oven and sprinkle the partially baked crust with chocolate chips then nuts.

For the filling.

In a bowl combine combine the caramel topping with 3 tablespoons flour.

Blend well , then drizzle over the chocolate and nuts.

Sprinkle with remaining oat topping , then gently press the oat mixture down slightly.

Bake for 20 minutes or until the top is lightly browned).

Let stand to cool enough to refrigerate , then chill.

Slice into squares or bars.

Ingredients

yellow cake mix, quick-cooking oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, butter, lemon juice, egg, caramel ice cream topping, flour, semi-sweet chocolate chips, walnuts