Caramel Apple Streusel Bars

When the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, the allure of fall flavors beckons us to the kitchen. One of the most delightful treats that embodies the essence of the season is Caramel Apple Streusel Bars. These decadent bars are a harmonious blend of sweet and tart apples, rich caramel, and a crunchy streusel topping that makes them the perfect dessert to share at gatherings or enjoy on a cozy afternoon.

Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with these irresistible Caramel Apple Streusel Bars. This delightful recipe combines sweet and tart apples with rich homemade caramel, all topped with a crunchy streusel that adds the perfect texture. Ideal for sharing at gatherings or savoring during a quiet afternoon, these bars evoke fond memories of autumn and family traditions. Discover how to create this seasonal treat and fill your kitchen with warmth and delicious aromas.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients

For the Apple Filling:

3 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and diced

1 tbsp lemon juice

1/4 cup brown sugar

1 tsp ground cinnamon

1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

1 tbsp all-purpose flour

For the Caramel Sauce:

1 cup granulated sugar

6 tbsp unsalted butter

1/2 cup heavy cream

1/4 tsp salt

1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Streusel Topping:

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup rolled oats

1/3 cup brown sugar

1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)

For the Base:

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/2 tsp baking powder

1/4 tsp salt

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 egg

--

Instructions

Prepare the Apple Filling:

- In a mixing bowl, combine diced apples with lemon juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and flour. Toss gently until apples are evenly coated. Set aside for about 10-15 minutes.

Make the Caramel Sauce:

- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add granulated sugar. Stir constantly until it melts and turns amber in color.

- Remove from heat and immediately add butter, stirring until melted. Slowly pour in the heavy cream (be cautious as it may bubble), then stir in the salt and vanilla extract. Set aside to cool.

Prepare the Base:

- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8x8 inch baking pan.

- In a bowl, mix together flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add softened butter and egg, mixing until the dough forms.

- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from oven.

Assemble the Bars:

- After the base layer has baked, spread the apple filling evenly on top. Drizzle a generous amount of the cooled caramel sauce over the apples, reserving a bit for drizzling later.

- In a separate bowl, prepare the streusel topping by combining flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, melted butter, and chopped pecans (if using). Mix until crumbly.

- Evenly sprinkle the streusel topping over the caramel apple filling.

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 tender.

Cool and Serve:

- Let the bars cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes. Drizzle with any remaining caramel sauce before slicing into squares. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Enjoy your delightful Caramel Apple Streusel Bars!

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes | Servings: 16 bars