Gooey Caramel Chocolate Bars

And on the 8th day, God made Gooey Caramel Chocolate Bars... Seriously, these are the best bar or brownie I have ever had. If you do not make these, you will regret it for the rest of your life. The best part is that it starts with a mix, and is super simple. Mmmm... So good! If you're looking for a special dessert for Valentine's day or a birthday or a special occasion... or even just to chow down on, these are the bars for you.

Gooey Caramel Chocolate Bars

1 box Betty Crocker's Super Moist Chocolate Fudge cake mix
1/2 cup butter, softened
3 eggs
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 bag (14 oz) caramels, unwrapped
1/4 cup butter
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup reserved cake mix
1/2 cup quick cooking oats
3 Tbsp butter

1. Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Reserve 1/2 cup cake mix for topping. In a bowl, beat remaining cake mix, eggs, and butter until dough forms. Stir in chocolate chips. Spread into a 13x9 inch ungreased pan. Bake 15 - 18 minutes or until set.
2. Meanwhile, in a saucepan heat caramels, 1/4 cup butter, and condensed milk over medium heat, stirring frequently until caramels are melted and mixture is smooth.
3. Spread caramel mix over the partially baked crust. In a small bowl, mix reserved cake mix, oats and 3 tbsp butter with fork until crumbly. Sprinkle over carmel.
4. Bake 19 to 22 minutes longer or until top is set. Cool completely; about 2 hours. Run knife around edges of pan to loosen bars. Cut into bars and enjoy!

*Adapted from Betty Crocker

Part of Over-used Recipe Swap 2010