Loaded Caramel Apple Bars

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 2 cups peeled and chopped apples
• 1/2 cup caramel sauce
• 1/2 cup assorted chocolate chips, chopped nuts, coconut flakes, etc.

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Add the flour mixture to the butter mixture and mix until just combined.
6. Stir in the oats.
7. Spread the mixture into a greased 8x8-inch baking dish.
8. Top with the apples, caramel sauce, and desired toppings.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
10. Allow to cool before cutting into bars.

Interesting Facts

• Caramel apples are believed to have first appeared in the 1950s.
• These bars are a great way to use up over ripe apples.
• You can experiment and use different types of apples or toppings.