American Choc Nut Caramel Bars

Ingredients

 * 2 1/3 cups all-purpose flour, divided
 * 2 cups old fashioned oats
 * 1 cup brown sugar, packed
 * 1 teaspoon baking soda
 * 1/4 teaspoon salt
 * 1 cup butter or margarine, melted
 * 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (12 oz. package)
 * 1 1/2 cups chopped walnuts
 * 1 cup caramel ice cream topping (12.25 oz. jar)

Directions

 * In a large bowl, combine together 2 cups of flour, oats, brown sugar, baking soda and salt.
 * Add butter and stir until everything is moistened.
 * Reserve 1 cup crumb mixture.
 * Press the remaining into the bottom of an ungreased 13 X 9 inch baking pan.
 * Bake at 350F for 15 minutes or until lightly browned.
 * Sprinkle with walnuts and chocolate chips.
 * In a small bowl, combine the caramel topping and 1/3 cup of flour.
 * Mix well, then drizzle over the base.
 * Sprinkle with the remaining crumb mixture.
 * Bake at 350F for 20-25 minutes or until lightly browned.
 * Cool in the pan for 10 minutes.