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Achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures in your Caramel Apple Pie Bars begins with mastering the layering technique. After preparing your apple filling, it’s crucial to ensure that the filling is evenly distributed across the crust. Start by spooning the apple mixture onto the base layer and using a spatula to spread it out gently. This step is essential for guaranteeing that every bite of your bars is laden with that delicious caramel apple goodness.

Caramel Apple Pie Bars with Crumble Topping

Indulge in the flavors of fall with these Caramel Apple Pie Bars featuring a crunchy crumble topping. This recipe offers a delicious twist on classic apple pie, combining warm spiced apples with a rich caramel drizzle. Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home, these easy-to-make bars are sure to impress. From selecting the right apples to achieving the ideal texture, this guide provides everything you need to create this comforting treat that’s as delightful to serve as it is to eat.
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Ingredients
  

For the Apple Filling:

4 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1/4 cup caramel sauce

For the Crust and Crumble Topping:

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup brown sugar, packed

1/2 cup rolled oats

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

For Drizzling:

Additional caramel sauce for drizzling on top

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Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

    Prepare the Apple Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the diced apples, granulated sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and caramel sauce. Toss well and set aside to let the flavors meld.

      Make the Crust and Crumble Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, rolled oats, baking powder, and salt. Stir until well mixed. Pour in the melted butter and vanilla extract, stirring until the mixture forms a crumbly dough. Reserve 1 cup of this mixture for the topping.

        Create the Base Layer: Press the remaining mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form a crust. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, until just lightly golden.

          Add the Apple Filling: Remove the crust from the oven and evenly spread the caramel apple filling over the warm crust.

            Add the Crumble Topping: Sprinkle the reserved 1 cup of crumble mixture over the apples. If using, top with chopped walnuts for added crunch.

              Bake the Bars: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are bubbly.

                Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and let the bars cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes. Once cooled, lift the bars out using the parchment overhang, cut into squares, and drizzle with additional caramel sauce just before serving.

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                    Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes | Servings: 9-12 bars