Pecan Caramel Apple Bars

I was looking for an easy bar recipe. This one looked good because it had sweetened condensed milk poured over it. That’s almost always a good idea. Things get chewy and caramel-y. I really wanted to use up some apples that were languishing away in the fridge. The recipe only called for 2 apples but I used 3. After I cored and peeled the apples they weren’t a large amount anyway.

I modified the recipe from the start by adding an apple and also the kind used. The recipe called for 2 Granny Smith apples and my apples were yellow delicious. A bit sweeter apple but we’d be good.

I peeled and cut the apples first to get that out of the way. I dislike peeling apples as much as I dislike peeling potatoes. I tossed them with the sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg and set them aside.

Next I mixed the cake mix, egg and butter. That wasn’t as simple as it sounds. It took a lot of arm strength to stir it well. Keep going, eventually it will be well mixed.

I tried to spread the batter into the lined and sprayed pan with a small offset spatula. Finally I just used my fingers, it wasn’t an easy task either! These bars better be worth it, I mumbled.

I sprinkled the apples over the crust followed by the pecans.

Finally I poured the sweetened condensed milk over the top. Into the oven it went and I set the timer for 30 minutes

I did let it bake for 5 more minutes to let it brown a touch more. Your oven may vary too.

I let the bars sit for a couple of hours to totally cool, then; lifted them from the pan and cut them into 24 bars. I layered them between sheets of waxed paper in a container, cream verse then stored them in the refrigerator.

I’d wondered how the crust would turn out. It was great! It was flavorful and not crumbly. Each mouthful was delicious: a combination of crust, apples and caramel sauce. They’re best eaten with a fork. I’d say they’re more of a dessert than a bar, since the first one fell apart in my hand.

My P.S. grabbed a plate and a fork, scooped up several bars and enjoyed his dessert. They’re good whatever we call them!