Caramel Crumble Bars

Directions

1. Step 1
   Preheat oven to 350ºF. Grease a 13x9 baking pan.

2. Step 2
   Beat together the dry cake mix and 1/2 cup of softened butter with an electric mixer on low speed until the mixture is crumbly. Spoon out 1 cup of mixture into a medium bowl and set aside.

3. Step 3
   To the remaining mixture, add 3/4 cup of apple butter and an egg. Beat on medium speed until smooth and creamy.

4. Step 4
   Spread evenly into the pan. Bake 20 minutes or until starting to brown and top is set.

5. Step 5
   Meanwhile place unwrapped caramels, 2 Tablespoons of butter, and 3 Tablespoons of apple butter in a microwaveable bowl. Microwave on high for 3-4 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth and melted.

6. Step 6
   Pour caramel mixture evenly over the baked crust. (If the caramel has cooled and set, microwave 1 minute until it is very soft and pourable.)

7. Step 7
   Combine walnuts, coconut, and 2 Tablespoons of melted butter with the reserved cake mix mixture. Mix until crumbly.

8. Step 8
   Break up and sprinkle the topping evenly over the caramel. Some caramel will show through.

9. Step 9
   Bake 16-18 minutes or until topping is starting to brown. Cool completely before cutting into bars.