Caramel Apple Bars

Source: Jan Taylor

1 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup butter or 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 chopped pared tart apples (3 medium)
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
14 ounces caramel candy

Heat oven to 400 degrees F.

Mix brown sugar, butter and shortening. Stir in 1 3/4 cups flour, oats, salt and baking soda. Remove 2 cups of the mixture. Reserve.

Press remaining mixture in ungreased 13 x 9-inch pan.

Toss apples and 3 tablespoons flour; spread over mixture in pan.

Heat candies over low heat, stirring occasionally, until melted. Pour evenly over apples. Top with reserved oat mixture. Press lightly.

Bake until golden brown and apples are tender, 25-30 minutes. Cut into bars while warm.

Refrigerate any remaining bars.

Makes 36 bars.

ENJOY!