Salted Maple Caramel Carmelitas

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350º F.
2. Prepare an 8-inch baking pan by lining it with a large sheet of heavy-duty aluminum foil. Spray with non-stick spray.
3. Combine melted butter, brown sugar, and vanilla in a mixing bowl and whisk until smooth and the sugar has absorbed the butter.
4. Add flour, oats, baking soda, and salt. Stir with a wooden spoon until thoroughly combined.
5. Sprinkle half of the mixture into a prepared baking pan. Press flat with hands.
6. Bake until set and golden on the edges, about 12 minutes. Remove from oven,
7. Sprinkle chocolate chips and pecans evenly over the base. Pour caramel sauce over evenly.
8. Crumble reserved half of the dough and sprinkle in small pieces over caramel sauce.
9. Bake until golden brown around the edges, about 25-35 minutes.
10. Let cool to room temperature. Put in refrigerator until cold and firm. Slice into squares.
11. Can be eaten directly out of the refrigerator for a chewy bar. Or left to rest at room temperature until the caramel is softened.
12. Store in refrigerator.