2 cups oats (not quick-cooking)
1 cup (2 sticks) butter
3/4 cup white sugar
3/4 cup brown sugar
2 eggs
1 tbsp. warm water
1 tsp. vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt

OPTIONAL ADD-INS:

1 cup walnut or cashew pieces
1 cup butterscotch or chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9x12-inch pan with parchment paper.

Cream butter and sugars. Blend in eggs, warm water and vanilla. Sift in flour, baking soda and salt. Stir in any optional add-ins. Fold in oats. Press into prepared pan.

Bake at 350°F for 40 minutes.

CARAMEL GLAZE:

1/3 cup white sugar
1/3 cup brown sugar
2 tbsp. all-purpose flour
2/3 cup water
2 tbsp. butter
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. vanilla extract

Mix together sugars and flour in small saucepan. Add water. Stir over low heat until boiling, about 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from heat. Add butter, salt and vanilla extract.

Brush on glaze after cookie cools slightly. When cool, cut into bars.

Note: Any leftover glaze is good for apple slice dip.

Submitted by: Mike Barney