Caramel Apple Squares

First, preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).

To create the crust, combine and blend together brown sugar, butter, and shortening in a large bowl until you achieve a smooth consistency. Next, mix together 1 ¾ cups of flour, oats, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually stir this mixture into the creamed ingredients until you have a well-blended paste. Set aside 2 cups of this mixture for later use.

Press the remaining crust mixture into the bottom of an ungreased 9x13-inch baking pan to form a solid base.

To prepare the apple mixture, combine and toss apples with lemon juice in a medium-sized bowl. Then, add 3 tablespoons of flour to the apples and mix until they are evenly coated.

Spread the apple mixture evenly over the prepared crust, making sure to cover it completely.

Melt caramels in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until they reach a smooth and uniform consistency. Pour the melted caramels evenly over the apples.

Sprinkle the reserved oat mixture over top of the apples, pressing it down lightly to ensure even coverage.

Bake in the preheated oven until the top is golden brown and the apples are tender, approximately 25 to 30 minutes.

Cut the bars while they are slightly warm and refrigerate any leftover items for later consumption.