Caramel Apple Bars
Caramel Apple Bars feature bits of fresh apple and caramel with a buttery oatmeal base and topping.
Ingredients
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup 1 stick butter (softened)
- 1/4 cup vegetable shortening
- 1 3/4 cups all purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups quick cooking oats
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 4 1/2 cups chopped, peeled tart apples (3 medium or 4 small)
- 3 tablespoons all purpose flour
- 1 bag 14 ounces caramels, unwrapped ( or 1 bag Caramel Bits)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
- Mix brown sugar, butter, and shortening in a large bowl or in the bowl of a stand mixer. Stir in 1 3/4 cups flour, the oats, salt, and baking soda. Reserve 2 cups oat mixture; press remaining oat mixture in ungreased, 13 x 9 x 2-inch rectangular pan.
- Toss apples and 3 tablespoons flour; spread over mixture in pan.
- Heat caramels over low heat, stirring occasionally, until melted; pour evenly over apples. Alternatively, evenly disperse caramel bits over the apples.
- Sprinkle reserved oat mixture on top; press lightly.
- Bake 25 to 30 minutes or until topping is golden brown and apples are tender (mine took about 35 minutes). Cut bars while warm. Store covered in refrigerator.
