Caramel Apple Cookie Bars (Printable)

Soft, chewy bars featuring tender apples and caramel layers offer a sweet, cozy autumn treat.

# What You'll Need:

→ Cookie Base

01 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
02 - 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
03 - 1 large egg
04 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
05 - 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
06 - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
07 - 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
08 - 1/4 teaspoon salt

→ Apple Filling

09 - 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
10 - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
11 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

→ Caramel Layer

12 - 3/4 cup soft caramels, unwrapped
13 - 2 tablespoons milk

# How to make it:

01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang to facilitate removal.
02 - In a large bowl, whisk melted butter and brown sugar until smooth. Add egg and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly.
03 - Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually add to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
04 - Reserve 1/2 cup of dough. Press the remaining dough evenly into the prepared pan to create the base.
05 - Toss diced apples with granulated sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Spread evenly over the cookie base.
06 - Combine caramels and milk in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 20-second intervals, stirring after each until smooth and pourable, approximately 1 minute.
07 - Drizzle the melted caramel evenly over the apple layer. Crumble reserved dough over the top.
08 - Bake for 28 to 32 minutes until the top is golden and set. Allow to cool completely in the pan before lifting out and slicing into bars.

# Recipe Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Easy and quick to prepare with simple ingredients
  • Perfect blend of rich caramel, tender apples, and chewy cookie in every bite
02 -
  • Pears can be used instead of apples for a different flavor profile
  • Bars keep well at room temperature for up to 3 days in an airtight container
03 -
  • Add 1/3 cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the apple layer for crunch
  • Allow bars to cool completely for cleaner slices and easier serving
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