Caramel Apple Pecan Squares
Sweet and crunchy caramel apple pecan squares combine warm apple filling, caramel, oats, and pecans for a delicious dessert perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine flour, oatmeal, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt.
- Cut in margarine until mixture becomes crumbly.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of the crumb mixture for topping.
- Press the remaining crumb mixture into a 9 x 13-inch baking pan.
- Bake for 15 minutes.
- Add pecans to the reserved crumb mixture and mix well.
- Spread apple pie filling over the baked crust.
- Mix caramel and sweetened condensed milk together until smooth.
- Pour the caramel mixture over the apple filling.
- Sprinkle the crumb mixture over the top.
- Bake for approximately 20 minutes until set and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. If you want to add a touch of spice, a teaspoon of cinnamon can enhance the apple filling. If you don't have pecans, walnuts or almonds make great substitutes. Always check the caramel for consistency; warm it slightly if too thick to pour easily.
Serving Suggestions
These caramel apple pecan squares are perfect for dessert on their own but can be enjoyed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They are also great for gatherings and pair beautifully with coffee or tea. For an added twist, serve alongside some healthy yogurt quiche for a delightful brunch spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place a square in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Caramel Apple Pecan Squares contains roughly 619 calories, with 9g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (53% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1321mg per serving (57% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh apples instead of apple pie filling?
Yes, you can use fresh apples. Peel, core, and slice about 4-5 medium apples, then cook them with a bit of sugar and cinnamon until tender. This will give a more homemade touch to the squares compared to canned filling.
What can I substitute for sweetened condensed milk?
You can make a substitute by combining 1 cup of milk with 1 cup of sugar, then simmering until it thickens, or use coconut milk for a dairy-free option. However, the taste and texture may vary slightly from traditional sweetened condensed milk.
How do I know when the squares are done baking?
The squares are done when the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. You can insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, it's ready. Keep in mind that they will continue to set as they cool.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).