Herb's Oatmeal - Fudge Bars

Oatmeal Layer:

1/2 cup shortening
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 large egg
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
3/4 cup flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups uncooked oatmeal
1/2 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts)
1/2 cup coconut

Fudge Layer:

1 - 6 ounce package chocolate chips
1 Tablespoon butter
1/3 cup sweetened condensed milk
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts)
1 teaspoon vanilla

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Oatmeal Layer:

Combine shortening and brown sugar, add egg and vanilla until well blended. Combine dry ingredients in a separate bowl and mix into the above. Add oatsmeal, nuts and coconut. Set aside 1 cup of mix for topping. Place the rest of the mix in a greased 9 x 9 inch pan.


Fudge Layer:

In a saucepan combine chocolate, butter, milk and salt. Cook over low heat until chocolate and butter are melted (this step can be done in a microwave on high for 1 - 2 minutes). Remove from heat. Stir in nuts and vanilla, spread over oatmeal mix. Sprinkle top with reserved oatmeal mixture. Flatten slightly with a greased fork. Bake for 25 minutes until golden brown. Cool completely and chill for several hours before cutting into squares. These are so good.