Chocolate Caramel Bars

2 ¼ cups flour – divided

1 ½ cups packed brown sugar

½ teaspoon salt

2 cups semisweet chocolate chips

1 jar (12 ounce) caramel sauce

2 cups quick oats

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 ½ cups cold butter

1 cup chopped pecans

Combine 2 cups of flour, oats, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt.  Cut in butter until crumbly.  Set half aside for topping; press remaining crumb mixture into a greased 9 X 13 inch pan.  Bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes.  Sprinkle with chocolate chips and pecans.  Whisk caramel and remaining flour until smooth.  Drizzle over top.  Sprinkle remaining crumb mixture and bake 18 – 20 minutes or until browned.  Cool 2 hours before cutting.

Submitted by: Marcia Jacobs