Caramel Bars

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
   
2. Make the crust:
   In a bowl, mix melted butter and brown sugar. Stir in flour, baking soda, salt, and oats (if using) until crumbly.
   
3. Bake bottom layer:
   Press half of the mixture firmly into the prepared pan. Bake for 10–12 minutes until lightly golden.
   
4. Prepare caramel:
   In a saucepan over medium-low heat, combine sweetened condensed milk, butter, and brown sugar. Stir constantly for 8–10 minutes until thick and golden. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and salt.
   
5. Assemble:
   Pour caramel evenly over the baked crust. Crumble remaining dough over the top.
   
6. Bake:
   Return to oven and bake 20–25 minutes, until top is lightly golden and caramel is bubbling.
   
7. Cool & cut:
   Cool completely before slicing into bars.