Caramel Squares

2 cups baking mix

2 cups rolled oats

1½ cups packed dark brown sugar

½ cup (1 stick) butter, melted

1 (14-ounce) package caramels

⅓ cup milk

1 (12-ounce) bag semisweet chocolate chips

1 cup chopped walnuts

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

In a large bowl combine the baking mix, oats, and brown sugar. Stir in the butter until the mixture is crumbly. Press half the mixture into a 13 × 9-inch baking pan. Bake 10 minutes.

In a 2-quart saucepan heat the caramels and milk over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth. Sprinkle the chocolate chips and walnuts over the baked layer. Drizzle the caramel mixture over the nuts. Pour the remaining crumbly mixture over the caramel, and press lightly. Bake 15 to 20 minutes, or until golden brown. Cut into squares while warm. Cool completely before removing from the pan.

Makes 2 dozen

Joanne Thill, Queen Mum
London Bridge Red Hots,
Lake Havasu City, Arizona