Caramelitas: Decadent Caramel Oat Bars

Caramelitas are irresistible dessert bars featuring layers of buttery oatmeal crust, gooey caramel, and rich chocolate chips. Perfect for potlucks or holidays, their chewy texture and amazing flavor will be a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1 1/2 cups packed brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, melted
• 1 jar (11 oz) caramel sauce or 1 1/2 cups homemade
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)