Caramel Apple Bars

1/2 c applesauce

1/2 c peanut butter

1/4 c butter, softened 

2 c oats (whole rolled, not quick cook.)

1 c brown sugar, packed

1/2 c white sugar

1 tbsp cinnamon 

1 tbsp vanilla extract

1 c apples, diced & peeled

3/4 to 1 c white chocolate chips

dark/semisweet chocolate chips, peanut butter chips, etc.

1/4 c to 1/2 c caramel sauce (I used ice cream topping caramel sauce or use Dark Rum Caramel Sauce.  There are many vegan caramel sauce recipes online; google and research them if desired) 

Optional: Add raisins, dates, dried fruit, nuts, as desired in 1/4 to 1/3 c quantity 

Directions:

Combine applesauce, PB, butter in a large mixing bowl and stir to combine them.  Then add oats, sugars, cinnamon, and vanilla extract and stir.  Then fold in diced apples and white chocolate chips.  Spread batter (it will be pretty moist) into a foil-lined and spayed 8 x 8 or 9 x 9 pan.  Bake at 350F for 30 minutes.  The bars may still look underdone, but that’s ok because they will continue to set up as they cool.   They will be bubbling rapidly upon removing them from the oven.  Let the bubbling stop (about 5 minutes) and then carefully drizzle the caramel sauce over the top of the bars.  Allow bars to to cool very well before slicing.  I suggest popping them into the freezer for 15-30 minutes if you’re in a hurry.  Store extras on the countertop, refrigerator, or in the freezer for long term storage. 

Notes: All measurements are approximate and if you love peanut butter, apples, or caramel, add a bit more.  Reduce the sugar amounts if you wish.  Omit or change the type of chocolate chips used.  Add other spices such as pumpkin pie spice, cardamom, ginger, nutmeg, etc. if desired.

Recipe Source: http://www.loveveggiesandyoga.com/2011/09/caramel-apple-bars.html