Caramel Apple Pie à la Mode Bars

Ingredients

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 2-3 apples, peeled and sliced (Granny Smith or other sweet-tart variety)
• 1/2 cup caramel sauce
• 1 scoop vanilla ice cream per serving

Instructions

Make the Crust

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
3. Add cold butter; use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Gradually add sugar; stir until combined.
5. Press mixture into a 9x13-inch baking dish.

Caramelize the Apples

1. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat.
2. Add sliced apples and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender and caramelized, about 20-25 minutes.
3. Stir in 1 tablespoon granulated sugar; continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes.

Assemble the Bars

1. Arrange cooked apple slices on top of the crust.
2. Drizzle with caramel sauce.
3. Sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt.

Bake and Serve

1. Bake bars for 40-45 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and apples are tender.
2. Allow to cool completely in pan.
3. Cut into bars; top each with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.