Step 1

Preheat the oven to 350°F. In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of the flour, the oats, brown sugar, baking soda and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture is crumbly. Set half of this mixture aside for the topping.

Step 2

Press the remaining crumb mixture into a greased 13x9-inch baking pan. Bake for 15 minutes.

Step 3

Sprinkle the chocolate chips and chopped pecans over the baked crumb layer.

Step 4

Whisk the caramel topping and remaining 1/4 cup flour until smooth, then drizzle this over the top.

Step 5

Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture over the top, and bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until golden brown. Let the bars cool on a wire rack for two hours before cutting.