Caramel Apple Oatmeal Bars

I tell myself these bars aren't that bad for me since the serving size is only for 100 calories. However, that is for an unfairly small portion!. However, they do have fruit... and oats! They're a yummy treat for lunches and my husband adores them. I have adapted my recipe from the one you can find here on Betty Crocker's website.

 

1

cup packed brown sugar

3/4

cup butter or margarine, softened

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 coarsely chopped peeled tart apples (3 medium)

3

tablespoons all-purpose flour

carmel ice cream topping, drizzled on top until your hearts content :)

Nuts, optional

• 1Heat oven to 400ºF. Mix brown sugar and butter in large bowl. Stir in 1 3/4 cups flour, the oats, salt and baking soda. Reserve 2 cups oat mixture; press remaining oat mixture in ungreased rectangular pan, 13x9x2 inches.
• 2Toss apples and 3 tablespoons flour; spread over mixture in pan. Pour caramel topping evenly over apples. Sprinkle with reserved oat mixture; press lightly. Add nuts of your choice if you'd like. I usually use pecans of walnuts.
• 3Bake 25 to 30 minutes or until topping is golden brown and apples are tender. For 36 bars, cut into 6 rows by 6 rows while warm. Store covered in refrigerator (I leave mine on the counter).