Caramel Apple Pie Bars with Crumb Topping

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

2. Make the Crust:

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until creamy and smooth.

Add in the flour and salt, mixing until a crumbly dough forms.

Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.

Bake for 15 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Remove from the oven and set aside.

3. Prepare the Apple Filling:

In a separate bowl, toss the peeled and diced apples with flour, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice.

Spread the apple mixture evenly over the baked shortbread crust.

4. Add Crumb Topping:

In a bowl, combine the oats, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and cubed cold butter.

Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture forms coarse crumbs.

Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the apple layer.

5. Bake the Bars:

Bake the bars in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender.

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.

6. Drizzle & Serve:

Drizzle the bars with warm caramel sauce just before serving.

Enjoy the bars warm or chilled. For an extra indulgence, top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!

Serving and Storage Tips