Go Back
To ensure the success of your Caramel Apple Delight Streusel Bars, it’s crucial to understand the ingredients that contribute to their unique flavor profile and texture. Let’s take a closer look at the key components.

Caramel Apple Streusel Bars

Embrace the flavors of fall with Caramel Apple Delight Streusel Bars! Perfect for cozy gatherings or a sweet indulgence at home, these bars combine tart apples, rich caramel, and a crunchy streusel topping. Dive into the article to discover essential tips on selecting the right apples, balancing flavors with spices, and mastering the perfect streusel. Follow our step-by-step guide to create these delightful treats that will surely become a seasonal favorite!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

For the Apple Filling:

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

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

1/4 cup packed brown sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1 tablespoon cornstarch

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For the Streusel Topping:

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup rolled oats

1/2 cup packed brown sugar

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Caramel Drizzle:

1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt (optional for garnish)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Apple Filling:

    - In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced apples with the lemon juice. Sprinkle in the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cornstarch, and vanilla extract. Toss everything together until the apples are evenly coated. Allow the mixture to sit for approximately 15 minutes to macerate.

      Preheat the Oven:

        - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8x8-inch baking dish by lining it with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy lifting later.

          Make the Streusel Topping:

            - In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt until well combined. Pour in the melted butter and use a fork or your fingers to mix the ingredients until a crumbly texture develops, resembling wet sand. Set aside 1 cup of this mixture for the topping, and reserve the remainder for the crust.

              Assemble the Bars:

                - Press the remaining streusel mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to create a base layer. Bake this layer for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven. Evenly spread the prepared apple filling over the base.

                  Add the Remaining Streusel:

                    - Crumble the reserved one cup of streusel topping across the apple filling, ensuring it covers the apples entirely.

                      Bake:

                        - Place the pan back in the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the streusel topping is golden brown and the apples are bubbling around the edges.

                          Cool and Drizzle:

                            - Once baked, let the bars cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 15 minutes. After cooling, drizzle the caramel sauce generously over the top, and if desired, sprinkle with the flaky sea salt for an extra flavor boost.

                              Cut into Bars:

                                - Using the parchment overhang, carefully lift the bars out of the pan. Place on a cutting board and cut into squares.

                                  Store the Leftovers:

                                    - Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week to maintain freshness.

                                      Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 25 minutes | 1 hour | Makes 16 bars