Caramel Pear Bars.

After my long hiatus I am happy to bring you a delicious autumn recipe that you will want to make sooner than later.  I like to stock up on pears specifically for this recipe.  And its so good that I had this earlier this month as my birthday treat!

Caramel Pear Bars
(adapted from Taste of Home)

2 1/2 cups flour
1 1/2 cups oatmeal
1 1/2 cup brown sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
3/4 cup butter (melted)
1 package of caramels
1 1/2 tablespoons milk
5-6 medium pears (sliced thin - peeled or unpeeled)

Combine flour, oatmeal, brown sugar, and cinnamon.  Stir in melted butter - mixture will be someone crumbly.  Set aside 1 1/2 cups to use as topping.  Press the remaining mixture into an ungreased 9x12 baking dish.  Melt caramels and milk until smooth.  Place pear slices on top of crust.  Drizzle caramel sauce over the top of pears.  Sprinkle with reserved mixture.  Bake in a 350 degree oven for 30-35 minutes.  Allow to cool for at least 30 minutes.

Most delicious served slightly warm with vanilla ice cream.  If you are lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator.  Mmmm.  I think I need to get some more pears!