Caramel Apple Pie Bars with Cinnamon Pecan Streusel

Step 1

Preheat oven to 300 degrees F.

Step 2

Line an 8"x8" baking pan with parchment paper and set aside.

Step 3

Melt butter in microwave, then add brown sugar and whisk to combine.

Step 4

Add salt and cinnamon, stir, then add flour and stir until well combined.

Step 5

Press dough into prepared pan in an even layer.

Step 6

Bake 15 minutes, then set aside.

Step 7

Increase oven temperature to 350 degrees F.

Step 8

While crust is baking, prepare apples and add to medium mixing bowl.

Step 9

Toss apple slices with butter, brown sugar, flour and cinnamon.

Step 10

Add flour, 1/4 cup oats, brown sugar and cinnamon to a food processor. Add cubes of cold butter and pulse until butter is cut into mixture and pea sized pieces form.

Step 11

Add streusel to a small bowl and stir in chopped pecans and remaining 1/4 cup oats.

Step 12

Layer apple slices over top of the shortbread crust, then top with streusel topping.

Step 13

Bake at 350 degrees F for 20-25 minutes, until streusel is lightly golden brown and apples are cooked through.

Step 14

Drizzle with caramel and top with vanilla ice cream if desired.