Caramel Apple Oatmeal Cookie Bars – Easy & Delicious Homemade Recipe

🍏 A Historical Bite of Apple Desserts

Apple desserts have been cherished for centuries, with roots tracing back to Europe where apples were often baked into tarts and cakes. In America, apples became a symbol of comfort food, especially during fall harvest. Oatmeal was introduced in baking during the late 19th century, praised for its wholesomeness. The pairing of apples, oats, and caramel is a modern twist that combines classic flavors with a chewy, indulgent texture. These cookie bars take inspiration from traditional crisps and pies but transform them into a portable, shareable treat.

Caramel Apple Oatmeal Cookie Bars – Easy & Delicious Homemade Recipe

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• Author: Jenny Cooks
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 12 bars 1x

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Description

These caramel apple oatmeal cookie bars are chewy, gooey, and utterly irresistible. Perfect for fall gatherings, bake sales, or cozy holiday desserts, they layer tender apples with buttery oats and a luscious caramel filling. The result is a sweet, spiced treat that tastes like apple crisp and caramel apples combined into one easy bar. Whether served warm with a scoop of ice cream or enjoyed straight from the pan, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

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Ingredients

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• 1 ½ cups old-fashioned oats

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• ¾ cup brown sugar, packed

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• 1 tsp baking soda

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• ½ tsp salt

• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted

• 3 medium apples, peeled and diced

• 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

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Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

• In a large bowl, combine oats, flour, sugars, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Stir in melted butter until crumbly.

• Press half of the oat mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.

• Spread diced apples evenly over the crust. Drizzle with caramel sauce and vanilla.

• Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture evenly over the top.

• Bake for 30–35 minutes until golden brown and bubbling.

 

• Cool completely before cutting into bars for neat slices.

  

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Notes

For a salted caramel twist, use salted caramel sauce.

Swap apples for pears for a cozy variation.

Store bars in an airtight container for up to 4 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

❓ FAQ Section (Extended for Engagement)

1. Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
Yes, but old-fashioned oats give a chewier, heartier texture. Quick oats will make the bars softer.

2. Do these bars need to be refrigerated?
Not necessarily. They can be stored at room temperature for 3–4 days, but refrigeration keeps them fresh longer, especially if your kitchen is warm.

3. Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use certified gluten-free oats and swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. The result will be just as delicious.