# Ingredient List:
→ Cookie Base
01 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
02 - 1 cup packed light brown sugar
03 - 1 large egg
04 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
05 - 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
06 - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
07 - 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
08 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
→ Apple Filling
09 - 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
10 - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
11 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
→ Caramel Layer
12 - 3/4 cup soft caramels, unwrapped
13 - 2 tablespoons milk
# How-To Steps:
01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing an overhang for easy removal.
02 - In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter and brown sugar until smooth. Incorporate the egg and vanilla extract, stirring until fully blended.
03 - In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add dry mixture to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
04 - Reserve 1/2 cup of the dough. Evenly press the remaining dough into the prepared pan to create the base layer.
05 - In a small bowl, toss diced apples with granulated sugar and cinnamon. Spread this mixture evenly over the cookie base.
06 - Combine caramels and milk in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 20-second intervals, stirring after each until smooth and pourable, about 1 minute total.
07 - Drizzle the melted caramel evenly over the apple filling.
08 - Crumble the reserved dough over the caramel layer in small pieces.
09 - Bake for 28 to 32 minutes or until the top is golden and set. Allow bars to cool completely in the pan before lifting out and cutting.
