Chewy Pumpkin Caramel Bars

Ingredients

• 2 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 2/3 cups granulated sugar
• 2 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/4 teaspoons baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup solid pack canned pumpkin
• 3/4 cup vegetable oil
• 27 caramels, unwrapped (about 9 ounces)
• 1/4 cup evaporated milk
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts, divided

Instructions

1. Combine flour, sugar, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda and salt in large mixer bowl.
2. Add pumpkin and oil; beat until blended (batter will be thick).
3. Spread two-thirds batter into greased 13 x 9-inch baking pan.
4. Bake at 375 degrees F for 20 minutes.
5. Combine caramels and evaporated milk in small saucepan; stir over low heat until caramels are melted.
6. Pour caramel mixture over baked layer; sprinkle with 1/4 cup nuts.
7. Drop remaining batter by heaping teaspoons over caramel mixture; sprinkle with remaining nuts.
8. Return to oven for 20 to 25 minutes (top layer will be slightly soft).
9. Remove to wire rack to cool completely.