Scotch Bars

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, making sure to leave some overhang for easy removal later.

2. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt. Mix until well combined.

3. Add the softened butter to the dry ingredients and mix until a crumbly dough forms. This will be the base of your Scotch Bars.

4. Press 2/3 of the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan, using your fingers or the back of a spoon to create an even layer.

5. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.

6. Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool slightly. Drizzle the caramel sauce over the baked crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

7. Sprinkle the chocolate chips over the caramel layer.

8. Crumble the remaining dough over the top of the caramel and chocolate chip layers, creating a crumbly topping.

9. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.

10. Remove the Scotch Bars from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. For an extra touch of decadence, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the top before cutting into bars.