Apple Bars

Waiting for a hurricane is strange.  Things get cancelled, everyone is supposed to stock up, try to take care of the important things.  Then you sit around and wait for the power to go out, afraid to start something in case you can't finish.

One good thing has come of this time though, I am starting to catch up on things like this blog!  I'm excited to share yet another version of everyone's favorite Seven Layers.  This time they're apple-themed and they were a hit with my lab, so I'm sure you'll enjoy them as well!!

Apple Bars
adapted from Beantown Baker & my Seven Layer Bars

1 stick butter
1c TJ's ginger cats crumbs (or another ginger spice cookie)
3/4c homemade applesauce (w/cinnamon)
1/2t cinnamon (increase if you have plain applesauce)
1/4t nutmeg
1/8t cloves
2 apples, peeled, cored & thinly sliced
3/4c white chocolate chips (or 3oz chopped)
1/2c cinnamon chips
1c chopped pecans
1 14oz can (fat free) sweetened condensed milk
1c unsweetened shredded coconut

Preheat the oven to 350deg.  Add a stick of butter to a 9x13" pan and place it in the preheating oven until melted.

In a small bowl, mix applesauce with spices (cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves) and set aside.

Once butter is melted, sprinkle cookie crumbs over and pat so there's an even layer of crumbs.  Gently spread spiced applesauce over the cookie base.  Layer the apple slices over the applesauce.  Sprinkle on the white chocolate chips, cinnamon chips and pecans.  Drizzle the sweetened condensed milk over the pan, and then top with coconut.

Place pan in oven and bake for 30-35min, until edges are browned and bubbly.  Let cool completely on a wire rack and then transfer to the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight before cutting.  These are pretty sweet, so I cut my bars into ~1" squares, feel free to cut as you see fit!

What's the best thing you've done with your apples this season??