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Caramel Apple Crumb Bars

These Caramel Apple Crumb Bars are the perfect combination of buttery crumble, sweet caramel, and spiced apples baked into one heavenly bar. With a soft, chewy texture and golden oat topping, they’re everything you love about apple pie — only easier and even more delicious. Perfect for fall gatherings, bake sales, or an afternoon treat with coffee.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time35 minutes
Total Time55 minutes
Servings: 12

Ingredients

Crumb Crust & Topping

  • 10 tablespoons unsalted butter softened
  • 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 3/4 cup old-fashioned oats
  • 1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/3 cup caramel sauce plus more for serving

Apple Filling

  • 3 cups peeled thinly sliced Granny Smith apples (about 2–3 medium apples)
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter melted
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
  • In a medium bowl, combine softened butter and brown sugar, mixing until crumbly.
  • Add flour, oats, baking soda, and salt, stirring until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  • Press two-thirds of the crumb mixture into the prepared pan to form the base.
  • In another bowl, toss apple slices with melted butter, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon until evenly coated.
  • Spread the apple filling over the crust in an even layer.
  • Drizzle caramel sauce over the apple layer.
  • Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture on top, gently pressing it down.
  • Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the apples are bubbling.
  • Cool completely before cutting into bars. Drizzle with extra caramel before serving.

Notes

  • Use Granny Smith apples for a tart contrast, or mix with Honeycrisp for extra sweetness.
  • Homemade caramel sauce adds a richer flavor, but store-bought works perfectly.
  • For a crunchier texture, toast the oats before mixing them into the crumb.
  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days, or refrigerate up to 5.