Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Caramel Apple Pie Bars are the perfect handheld treat that combines all the flavors of a classic apple pie with the added richness of a buttery crust and gooey caramel sauce. Layers of tender cinnamon-spiced apples sit atop a buttery shortbread base, all topped with a crunchy streusel and drizzled with caramel. These bars are an easy-to-make dessert, ideal for fall gatherings or as a satisfying snack anytime you’re craving something sweet and comforting. Enjoy them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or on their own for a truly indulgent bite.

Ingredients

For the crust:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp salt

For the apple filling:

• 4 cups apples, peeled and diced (about 4 medium apples)
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

For the streusel topping:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon

For the caramel drizzle:

• 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Make the crust: In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter, sugar, flour, and salt until well combined. Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan to form a crust. Bake for 15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.
3. Prepare the apple filling: In a large bowl, toss the diced apples with flour, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Spread the apple mixture evenly over the baked crust.
4. Make the streusel topping: In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, flour, oats, and cinnamon until crumbly. Sprinkle the streusel mixture evenly over the apples.
5. Bake: Return the pan to the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender.
6. Add the caramel: Once the bars have cooled slightly, drizzle the caramel sauce over the top.
7. Serve: Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing into squares. Serve on their own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

These Caramel Apple Pie Bars are the perfect dessert to enjoy all the cozy flavors of apple pie in an easy-to-make, deliciously decadent bar form!