Caramel Apple Bars

The first time I baked these Caramel Apple Bars, my whole kitchen smelled like warm apples and caramel. It reminded me of fall fairs and cozy sweaters. One bite, and I knew this recipe was a keeper.

The soft apple filling, buttery crust, and gooey caramel come together like pure comfort. It’s sweet, a little tart, and perfectly chewy. I love making them when I want something that tastes like fall in every bite.

If you love apple pie but want something easier, these bars are just perfect. They’re simple to make, easy to share, and so good with a scoop of ice cream. Every time I make them, they disappear fast.

So grab some apples and caramel sauce, and let’s bake these Caramel Apple Bars together. They’re my favorite cozy dessert, and I bet they’ll be yours too.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort Food Bliss: Warm caramel and tender apples nestled in an oat crust? It’s like a hug in dessert form!
• Perfect for Fall: This recipe captures the essence of autumn with every bite.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Serve these bars, and watch them disappear. They’re a hit for kids and adults alike!
• Customizable: Switch up the type of apples, or even add nuts for a crunch.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make ahead and enjoy later – they freeze beautifully.

Required Kitchen Tools

To make these delicious bars, you’ll need:

• A 13×9-inch baking dish
• Parchment paper
• Medium and large mixing bowls
• Pastry blender or fork (for mixing the crust and topping)
• Saucepan (for melting the caramel)
• Sharp knife and cutting board (for chopping apples)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this delightful dessert to life:

For the Crust and Topping

• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 1/4 cup shortening
• 1 3/4 cups + 3 tablespoons Gold Medal™ All-Purpose Flour, divided
• 1 1/2 cups quick-cooking oats
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

For the Filling

• 4 1/2 cups coarsely chopped peeled tart apples (about 3 medium apples)
• 1 bag (14 oz) caramels, unwrapped
• 2 tablespoons milk

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Baking Dish

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a 13×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy lifting. Lightly grease the parchment for added ease.

2. Make the Crust and Topping

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the brown sugar, softened butter, and shortening until smooth and fluffy.
2. Gradually mix in 1 3/4 cups of flour, oats, salt, and baking soda. The mixture should resemble coarse crumbs.
3. Set aside 1 1/2 cups of the oat mixture for the topping. Press the remaining mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish to form the crust.

3. Prepare the Apple Filling

1. Peel and chop the apples into small chunks (about 1/2-inch pieces).
2. In a medium bowl, toss the apples with the remaining 3 tablespoons of flour to coat evenly. This helps absorb excess moisture and prevents a soggy crust.
3. Spread the apples evenly over the crust.

4. Melt the Caramel

1. In a small saucepan, combine the unwrapped caramels and milk. Heat over low-medium heat, stirring constantly, until the caramels are completely melted and smooth.
2. Drizzle the warm caramel sauce evenly over the apples.

5. Add the Topping

1. Sprinkle the reserved oat mixture evenly over the caramel-covered apples. Press lightly to adhere.

6. Bake to Perfection

1. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the apples are tender.
2. Remove from the oven and let the bars cool in the pan for about 30 minutes. Then transfer the pan to the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours. This helps the caramel set and makes slicing easier.

7. Slice and Serve

1. Once chilled, use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Place them on a cutting board and slice into squares or rectangles.
2. Serve at room temperature or slightly warmed. Pair with vanilla ice cream for the ultimate indulgence!

Variations for Caramel Apple Bars

• Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the topping for a delightful crunch.
• Spiced Apples: Sprinkle cinnamon or nutmeg over the apples for an extra layer of flavor.
• Salted Caramel: Use salted caramel or sprinkle flaky sea salt over the caramel before adding the topping.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free oats and a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour for the crust and topping.
• Vegan Option: Replace butter with vegan butter, use a dairy-free caramel sauce, and skip the shortening.

How to Serve Caramel Apple Bars

• A La Mode: Warm the bars slightly and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Drizzle Extra Caramel: Heat additional caramel sauce and drizzle over the top for a decadent finish.
• Perfect for Parties: Cut into smaller squares for a bite-sized dessert option at gatherings.

Storing and Freezing Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store the bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	210
Total Fat	9g
Saturated Fat	4g
Cholesterol	15mg
Sodium	160mg
Total Carbohydrates	32g
Dietary Fiber	2g
Sugars	20g
Protein	2g

FAQs About Caramel Apple Bars

Can I use other types of apples?

Absolutely! Tart apples like Granny Smith are ideal for their balance of sweetness and acidity, but feel free to experiment with Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Pink Lady.

What’s the best way to cut the bars cleanly?

Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours before slicing. Use a sharp knife, and wipe it clean between cuts for neat edges.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! These bars are perfect for make-ahead desserts. Prepare them a day in advance and store in the fridge until serving.

Do I have to peel the apples?

Peeling is recommended for the best texture, but leaving the skin on adds extra fiber and nutrients if you prefer.