If you love pie and cookies, this recipe is the ultimate mash-up! These Caramel Apple Pie and Cherry Pie Cookie Bars blend buttery sugar cookies and sweet, fruit-filled goodness. Whether you're in the mood for apples' warm, spiced flavor or the tangy-sweet taste of cherries, this dessert has you covered.
The base is made from a simple sugar cookie dough that’s soft yet sturdy enough to hold the luscious pie filling. For caramel lovers, a melted Werther's Chewy Caramel layer adds an extra indulgent twist to the apple version. These bars are easy to make and perfect for sharing at parties, potlucks, or just enjoying at home.
Let’s get baking!
Ingredients
- 2 packages of sugar cookie mix
- 1 can of fruit pie filling (Apple or Cherry)
- Werther's Chewy Caramels (optional for caramel apple version)
- Margarine and water (as directed on the sugar cookie mix package)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cookie Dough:
1. Combine the sugar cookie mix with the margarine and water as instructed on the package. Stir until a soft dough forms.
2. Grease a square baking pan (9x9 inches works well). Press about ¾ of the cookie dough into the bottom of the pan to create the base.
2. Prebake the Cookie Base:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookie base for 18 minutes or until it starts to set and lightly golden.
2. Remove from the oven and let it cool while preparing the filling.
3. Prepare the Pie Filling:
1. Pour the fruit pie filling into a saucepan. Mash the fruit slightly to break it up, then simmer uncovered over medium heat until the mixture thickens, about 5–7 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.
4. Optional Caramel Layer (For Apple Version):
1. Melt Werther's Chewy Caramels in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
2. Spread a thin layer of melted caramel over the cooled cookie base before adding the pie filling.
5. Assemble the Bars:
1. Spread the thickened pie filling evenly over the prebaked cookie base (or caramel layer).
2. Take the reserved cookie dough and drop small dollops over the pie filling, leaving some gaps to let the fruit peek through.
6. Bake the Cookie Bars:
1. Return the pan to the oven and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
2. Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan to allow them to set.
7. Slice and Serve:
Once fully cooled, cut the bars into squares. Serve and enjoy!
Tips
- Cooling is key: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to ensure they hold their shape.
- Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Flavor twists: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the apple filling for extra warmth or almond extract to the cherry filling for added depth.
Whether you choose caramel apple or classic cherry, these cookie bars are sure to be a crowd-pleaser! 🍎🍒