Caramel and Chocolate Gooey Bars (Gluten-Free with Vegan option)

INGREDIENTS

3/4 cup

butter, melted

1 1/2 cups

whole rolled oats

3/4 cup

brown sugar, packed

1 tsp

baking soda

1/2 cup

all-purpose flour, optional*

1 tsp

vanilla extract + 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup

chocolate chips

caramel squares (or 2 cups caramel sauce)

2/3 cup

half-and-half or cream