LECHERA RECIPES

Steps:

• Heat oven to 350 degrees F. In large bowl, mix flour, oats, brown sugar and salt. With pastry blender or fork, cut in butter until mixture is crumbly. Press 3/4 of mixture in 13X9 pan sprayed with cooking spray. Bake 10 minutes.
• In 1 quart saucepan, heat dulce de leche over low heat 2-4 minutes, stirring frequently.
• Spread dulce de leche over partially baked crust. Sprinkle evenly with toffee bits, pecans and remaining crumb mixture. Bake 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Cool 15 minutes.
• Run knife around sides of pan to loosen bars. Cool completely, about 1 hour. For bars, cut into 8 rows by 4 rows.
• *Dulce de leche is caramelized sweetened condensed milk and can be found in the baking section next to the sweetened condensed milk. May also be found in the ethnic Mexican section. Brand name is Nestle La Lechera Dulce de Leche.

Steps:

• Remove label from the can of condensed milk. Place unopened can in a 3 1/2- to 4 1/2-quart slow cooker. Pour water into the slow cooker until the can is completely covered with water. Put lid on the slow cooker.
• Cook on High for 3 1/2 to 4 1/2 hours, making sure the can is always covered with water. Remove hot can with tongs; allow to cool until safe to handle, at least 25 minutes. Open can and pour contents into a lidded bowl. Stir in vanilla extract.