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Caramel Apple Bars

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Caramel Apple Bars are a sweet and buttery dessert featuring a spiced crust, tender apple filling, and crumbly streusel topping, all finished with gooey caramel. Perfect for fall or any time you’re craving a comforting treat.

Ingredients

  • 1⅔ cups all-purpose flour
  • ⅔ cup granulated sugar
  • 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • ¾ teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¾ cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
  • 1 tablespoon water (if needed)
  • 3 cups diced apples (about 2–3 medium apples)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 5 ounces soft caramels, chopped (or use homemade caramel sauce)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt.
  3. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add water gradually if needed until the dough holds together when pressed.
  4. Press about two-thirds of the mixture firmly into the prepared pan to form the crust.
  5. In a separate bowl, toss the diced apples with cornstarch until well coated.
  6. Evenly spread the apple mixture over the crust.
  7. Sprinkle chopped caramels (or drizzle caramel sauce) over the apples.
  8. Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture evenly on top.
  9. Bake for 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
  10. Let the bars cool completely in the pan. For cleaner cuts, refrigerate before slicing into squares.

Notes

  • Use tart, firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for best results.
  • Homemade caramel sauce adds a richer flavor than store-bought caramels.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://yumfamilyrecipes.com/caramel-apple-bars/