Save Chewy cookie bars layered with cinnamon-spiced apples and gooey caramel, finished with a buttery crumble topping. Perfect for autumn or any time you crave comforting fall flavors.
I first made these bars for a family gathering and everyone instantly loved the rich apple-caramel combo. They've become our go-to treat whenever crisp apples are in season.
Ingredients
- For the Cookie Base: 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened, 1 cup (200 g) light brown sugar, packed, 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar, 2 large eggs, 2 tsp pure vanilla extract, 2 1/2 cups (310 g) all-purpose flour, 1 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp salt
- For the Spiced Apple Filling: 3 medium apples (about 400 g), peeled, cored, diced, 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 1/3 cup (65 g) light brown sugar, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg, 1/8 tsp ground cloves, 1 tbsp lemon juice
- For the Caramel Layer: 2/3 cup (180 g) caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- For the Crumble Topping: 3/4 cup (95 g) all-purpose flour, 1/3 cup (70 g) light brown sugar, 1/4 cup (55 g) unsalted butter, cold and diced, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- Make the Cookie Base:
- In a large bowl, cream together butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Layer the Cookie Base:
- Spread about 2/3 of the dough evenly in the prepared pan, reserving the rest for later.
- Prepare the Apple Filling:
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and lemon juice. Cook for 5–7 minutes until apples are tender and liquid is slightly reduced. Remove from heat and cool slightly.
- Assemble the Layers:
- Spread the spiced apples evenly over the cookie base. Drizzle the caramel sauce over the apples. Drop spoonfuls of the remaining cookie dough over the caramel layer.
- Prepare the Crumble:
- In a small bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Cut in the cold butter with a fork or pastry cutter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle evenly over the cookie dough.
- Bake and Cool:
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until top is golden brown and set. Cool completely in the pan before slicing into bars.
Save Sharing these bars after a chilly walk is a tradition in our house—my kids love them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
Required Tools
9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking pan, mixing bowls, electric mixer or hand whisk, skillet, spatula, parchment paper, pastry cutter or fork
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), milk (butter), eggs. Caramel sauces may contain dairy. Always double-check ingredient labels for allergy concerns.
Nutritional Information
Each bar contains approximately 320 calories, 14 g total fat, 47 g carbohydrates, and 3 g protein.
Save Enjoy these spiced caramel apple cookie bars slightly warm for the ultimate autumn treat. They also freeze well for make-ahead dessert planning.
Kitchen Tips & Answers
- → What variety of apples works best?
Granny Smith adds tartness while Honeycrisp brings a sweeter note. Both balance the caramel and spices well.
- → Can these bars be made ahead?
Yes, store cooled bars in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or up to 1 week refrigerated.
- → Are nuts necessary for the crumble?
Nuts are optional! For crunch, add toasted pecans or walnuts to either the apple layer or topping.
- → How do I achieve a perfect crumble?
Use cold butter and gently cut it into flour and sugar until pea-sized bits form. Sprinkle evenly for a crisp finish.
- → Can I use homemade caramel sauce?
Absolutely! Homemade sauce adds a richer flavor, but store-bought caramel also works beautifully in these bars.
- → Is this dessert vegetarian?
Yes, all ingredients are vegetarian. Check your caramel sauce label for dairy if strict dietary requirements apply.