Save Soft, chewy cookie bars layered with tender apples and gooey caramel—an irresistible, budget-friendly treat perfect for autumn or any time you crave a sweet, cozy dessert.
I first made these caramel apple cookie bars for a fall family picnic, and they quickly became a requested favorite. The blend of warm cinnamon apples and creamy caramel brings back memories of crisp, autumn days together.
Ingredients
- Cookie Base: 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, melted, 1 cup (200 g) light brown sugar, packed, 1 large egg, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1 1/4 cups (155 g) all-purpose flour, 1/2 tsp baking powder, 1/4 tsp baking soda, 1/4 tsp salt
- Apple Filling: 2 medium apples (about 250 g), peeled, cored, and diced, 2 tbsp granulated sugar, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- Caramel Layer: 3/4 cup (180 g) soft caramels, unwrapped, 2 tbsp milk
Instructions
- Prepare Pan:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch (20x20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- Make Cookie Dough:
- In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter and brown sugar until smooth. Add egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir into wet ingredients just until incorporated.
- Form Base:
- Reserve 1/2 cup of the dough and press the rest evenly into the prepared pan to form the base.
- Prepare Apples:
- Toss diced apples with sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Spread evenly over the cookie base.
- Melt Caramel:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine caramels and milk. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth and pourable (about 1 minute).
- Layer Caramel:
- Drizzle the melted caramel evenly over the apple layer.
- Add Topping:
- Crumble the reserved dough over the top in small pieces.
- Bake & Cool:
- Bake for 28 to 32 minutes, or until the top is golden and set. Cool completely in the pan before lifting out and cutting into bars.
Save 
Save My kids love helping sprinkle the crumbled dough on top before baking. It's a fun, delicious way to get everyone involved, and sharing warm bars together always brings smiles to our table.
Required Tools
8x8-inch (20x20 cm) baking pan, mixing bowls, whisk and spatula, microwave-safe bowl, parchment paper, sharp knife
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), dairy, and egg. Check caramel packaging for possible soy and additional allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 207 calories, 7 g total fat, 35 g carbohydrates, 2 g protein.
Save 
Save Enjoy these cookie bars warm or cold—they taste incredible both ways, making them a versatile family favorite.