Oat Layer

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. In a medium bowl, mix oatmeal with corn syrup, brown sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
3. Line a 9×13 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving extra paper hanging over the short end of the baking dish.
4. Press oat mixture firmly into the bottom of the baking dish.
5. Bake for 15 minutes.
6. Remove from oven and allow to cool while making caramel layer.

Caramel Layer

1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium high heat.
2. Add brown sugar, corn syrup, heavy cream, and salt.
3. Using a candy thermometer, bring to a boil and stir frequently until caramel mixture reaches the soft ball stage, or 235 degrees.
4. Remove from heat and add vanilla extract. Allow to cool for 5 minutes.
5. Pour caramel mixture over oat mixture, and chill until firmly set.
6. Once the bars are set, press pretzels onto the top of the caramel layer and sprinkle with sea salt.
7. Using the parchment paper, lift the entire uncut caramel oat block from the baking dish and place on a cutting board. Cut into bars.
8. Keep refrigerated, but set the bars out at room temperature for 20 minutes before serving to soften the caramel layer a bit. Your teeth will thank you.