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Heat oven to 400ºF.
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In a large bowl, mix brown sugar, butter, and shortening.
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Stir in 1 3/4 cups flour, oats, salt, and baking soda.
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Press oat mixture in an ungreased rectangular pan, reserving 2 cups of oat mixture.
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Toss apples and 3 tablespoons flour together, then spread evenly over mixture in pan.
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Heat caramels over low, stirring to avoid burning, until caramels are melted.
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Pour caramel evenly over apples.
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Sprinkle bars with reserved oat mixture, pressing down lightly.
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Bake 25 to 30 minutes or until golden brown. Serve warm.
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Store bars covered in refrigerator.