Sinfully Rich Chocolate Crunch Bars

This bar cookie was the second baking for S and A's engagement party. And a hit it was. In fact, S even told me, after a class we had together, that she really liked them, took home the leftovers and had two for breakfast the following morning. That's love. These are also taken from my trusty KAF Cookie Companion and as the name indicates, these are extremely rich bites of goodness. Maybe the base of oats will assuage your conscience somewhat? In addition to oats, the bars are whipped up easily with some sugar, corn syrup, and margarine and topped with melted chocolate. The base caramelizes into a candy like bottom in the oven. Adding a simple chocolate coating puts them over the top. Allow them to come to room temperature for serving so that no one breaks their teeth on these. A warmer temperature might also be helpful for cutting them more easily. I struggled with mine. Place in paper serving wrapper for pretty presentation.

Sinfully Rich Chocolate Crunch Squares
Base:
4 1/2 cups old fashioned oats
1 cup brown sugar
3/4 cup butter or margarine, melted
3/4 cup corn syrup
1 tbsp vanilla
1/2 tsp salt

Topping:
2 cups chocolate chips
2 tbsp vegetable shortening
Preheat the oven to 425. Lightly grease a 10x15 inch jelly roll or line with parchment. In a bowl, combine all of the base ingredients.Stir well. Press the mixture into the pan and spread evenly. Using oiled hands is a tremendous help but not necessary. Bake for 10-14 minutes or until its light golden brown. It will bubble heavily-- this is the melting of the sugars-- we're making candy! Allow the base to cool completely.Place the chocolate and shortening in a bowl and microwave until almost melted. Stir until smooth.Pour the mixture over the cooled base-- looks decadent already.With the help of an offset spatula, spread all over the top. This topping spreads really easily.Put the tray into the refrigerator to set the top, or the freezer if youre in a rush.When the topping has set, remove from the fridge and using a bench knife score the bars to mark them for exact cutting. Cut carefully. Placing them into decorative papers makes them ready for a party in no time!