Nothing says autumn quite like these Caramel Apple Pie Bars. With a baked walnut crust, gooey caramel apple filling and a crumble on top, these bars are sure to be a crowd pleaser. Not to mention, they’re vegan and gluten free so everyone can enjoy them!
1 3/4 cups California walnuts
1 cup oat flour
1/3 cup cold vegan butter, cubed
1/4 cup coconut sugar
3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
1/8 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup coconut cream
1/4 cup maple syrup
2 tablespoons coconut sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/8 teaspoon salt
3 1/2 cups honey crisp apple slices (3 medium apples)
1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
Preheat oven to 350°F and line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
Place all crust ingredients to a food processor and pulse for 30 seconds or until only small pieces of walnuts remain and the mixture sticks together when pinched. Set aside 1/3 of the mixture. Press the remaining into the prepared pan. Bake for 20 minutes or until the edges have started to brown.
While crust is baking, to prepare caramel place all ingredients in a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 25 minutes, whisking frequently to avoid burning; let cool slightly. Mixture should now coat the back of a spoon and be reduced to 1/2 cup.
To prepare filling, place apples, cinnamon and salt in a medium bowl. Pour warm caramel over the top and stir until evenly coated.
Spread apples over crust and top with reserved crust mixture, pressing down lightly with your fingers. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until the topping has started to brown and the filling is bubbly.
Let cool for 30 minutes, then chill for 3 to 4 hours before cutting into equal squares. Store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.