Fudge-Filled Oatmeal M&M Bars

I recently ran across this recipe from years ago. I used to make them frequently, but then over the years sort of forgot about them. I've made them a couple of times since finding it again. They're easy to make, and very good too!

Printable Recipe

2 cups quick oats
1 1/2 cups flour
1 cup brown sugar
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt

1 cup butter, melted

2 tbsp shortening
2 1/2 cups plain M & Ms, divided
1 (14-oz) can sweetened condensed milk

In a large bowl, combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, soda and salt and mix well. Add the melted butter and mix thoroughly. Reserve 1 1/2 cups of the crumb mixture and set aside. Press the remaining mixture into a greased 9 x 13" pan and bake 375 degrees for about 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, in a saucepan, melt the shortening over low heat. Add 1 1/2 cups of the M & Ms and continue cooking over low heat, breaking the M & Ms with the back of a spoon as they melt. Remove from heat and add the sweetened condensed milk, stirring until well combined.

When the crust is partially baked, remove from oven and pour chocolate mixture evenly over the crust, leaving a 1/2" edge. Add the remaining 1 cup of the M & Ms to the remaining crumb mixture and sprinkle on top of the chocolate layer, pressing down lightly. It's ok if it doesn't cover it completely. Return to oven and bake an additional 20 - 25 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Do not overbake. Cool and cut into bars.