Caramel Apple Oatmeal Cookie Bars

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 1/4 cup shortening
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1-3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup old-fashioned or quick-cooking oats
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans, optional
• FILLING:
• 4-1/2 cups coarsely chopped peeled tart apples
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 package (11 ounces) caramels
• 3 tablespoons butter