Caramel Apple Pecan Pie Crumble Bars

Description

A delicious combination of caramel apples and crunchy pecans in a crumbly oat topping, perfect for the fall season.

Ingredients

For the crust:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces

For the filling:

• 2 large apples, peeled and diced
• 1/2 cup light corn syrup
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon caramel sauce (such as dulce de leche)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans

For the crumble topping:

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

Instructions

Preheat oven and prepare crust:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Prepare filling:

1. In a separate large bowl, combine the diced apples, corn syrup, granulated sugar, caramel sauce, vanilla extract, and chopped pecans. Mix until the apples are evenly coated with the sweet and sticky mixture.

Assemble and top with crumble:

1. Press half of the crust mixture into the prepared baking dish.
2. Spoon the apple-pecan filling over the crust.
3. Top with the remaining crust mixture.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, and salt for the crumble topping. Add the cold butter and use your fingers or a pastry blender to work it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
5. Spread the crumble topping evenly over the filling.

Bake:

1. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the topping is crispy.

Tips and Variations

• To make ahead, prepare the crust and filling separately and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
• Consider adding other spices or flavorings like cinnamon or nutmeg to the crumble topping for added depth of flavor.