Easy Caramel Apple Bars

Recipe View 5 mins Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). (5 minutes)

Recipe View 5 mins In a large bowl, cream together the brown sugar, softened butter, and shortening until smooth and well combined. (5 minutes)

Recipe View 2 mins In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour, quick-cooking oats, baking soda, and salt. (2 minutes)

Recipe View 3 mins Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, mixing until just combined. The mixture will be crumbly. (3 minutes)

Recipe View 5 mins Set aside 2 cups of the oat mixture for topping. Press the remaining mixture evenly into the bottom of an ungreased 9x13-inch baking pan to form the crust. (5 minutes)

Recipe View 5 mins In a medium bowl, toss the peeled, cored, and chopped apples with lemon juice and the remaining 3 tablespoons of flour. This will help to thicken the apple juices during baking. (5 minutes)

Recipe View 2 mins Spread the apple mixture evenly over the prepared crust. (2 minutes)

Recipe View 10 mins In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the unwrapped caramels, stirring frequently until smooth. Be careful not to burn the caramels. (8-10 minutes)

Recipe View 2 mins Pour the melted caramel evenly over the apple layer. (2 minutes)

Recipe View 2 mins Sprinkle the reserved oat mixture evenly over the caramel layer. Gently press down on the topping to help it adhere. (2 minutes)

Recipe View 30 mins Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender. (25-30 minutes)

Recipe View 30 mins Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before cutting into bars. Refrigerate any leftover bars to maintain their shape and freshness. (30 minutes)