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Caramel apple desserts have a special place in the hearts of many, especially as the leaves begin to turn and the air becomes crisp with the arrival of fall. The combination of sweet, tart apples enveloped in rich caramel sauce and topped with a buttery streusel is simply irresistible. Whether you're attending a cozy gathering with friends or hosting a family get-together, these Deliciously Decadent Caramel Apple Streusel Bars are the perfect addition to your dessert table. They not only look stunning but also deliver a comforting mix of flavors and textures that will leave everyone craving more.

Caramel Apple Streusel Bars

Fall in love with the flavors of autumn with these Deliciously Decadent Caramel Apple Streusel Bars. Featuring sweet and tart apples baked with rich caramel and a buttery, crumbly streusel topping, this recipe is perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. With a combination of warm spices, a luscious apple filling, and a crunchy topping, these bars are sure to impress. Get ready to create a delicious treat that captures the essence of the season!
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Ingredients
  

For the Apple Filling:

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

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 tablespoon cornstarch

For the Caramel Sauce:

1/2 cup unsalted butter

1 cup brown sugar, packed

1/4 cup heavy cream

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Pinch of sea salt

For the Streusel Topping:

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup rolled oats

1/2 cup brown sugar, packed

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

1/4 teaspoon salt

For Serving:

Whipped cream (optional)

Additional caramel sauce for drizzling

Instructions
 

Prepare the Apple Filling:

    - In a medium bowl, combine the diced apples, granulated sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Mix until the apples are well coated. Set aside.

      Make the Caramel Sauce:

        - In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the brown sugar and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring continuously until smooth and thickened. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and sea salt. Let cool slightly.

          Prepare the Streusel Topping:

            - In a large bowl, mix together the flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and mix until crumbly and well combined.

              Assemble the Bars:

                - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

                  - Press half of the streusel mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust.

                    - Spread the apple filling evenly over the crust. Drizzle half of the caramel sauce over the apple filling.

                      - Take the remaining streusel mixture and sprinkle it evenly over the top.

                        - Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the apples are tender.

                          Cool and Serve:

                            - Once baking is complete, remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes. Then, lift the bars out using the parchment overhang and let cool completely on a wire rack.

                              - Once cooled, cut into squares and drizzle the remaining caramel sauce on top. Serve with whipped cream if desired.

                                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                                  20 mins | 1 hr 15 mins | 16 bars