Preheat oven to 350 and line an 8x8 inch pan with nonstick foil and spray with cooking spray.
In a large bowl combine flour, oats, brown sugar, and butter and mix until smooth with a hand mixer. Press 3/4 of the mixture into bottom of prepared pan. Bake 10-15 minutes. (15 for higher altitudes) Set aside reserved crumb mixture.
In another bowl combine cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla and mix until smooth. Pour batter onto baked crust. Scatter chocolate chips, 1/2 cup caramels, and reserved crumb mixture over the cheesecake layer. Bake 30-35 minutes or until an inserted toothpick comes out clean.
Remove from oven and allow to cool completely on a wire rack on in the fridge. Optional: melt remaining caramels and drizzle onto bars. Once completely cooled, cut into squares and serve. Store in airtight container in the fridge. May be eaten at room temperature or chilled.
Notes
Bars may be served at room temperature or chilled.