Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

If you’re looking for a cozy dessert that captures the essence of fall in every bite, you’ve come to the right place. These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are not just delicious; they bring back fond memories of warm kitchens filled with the scent of baking apples and sweet caramel. This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want to impress without spending all day in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try these bars, they’ll become a favorite in your home!

Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, spiced apple filling nestled between a buttery oat crumble, all drizzled with rich salted caramel. Each bite will leave you wanting more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have these delightful bars ready to bake—perfect for any skill level!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves apple pie! These bars make it easy to share a classic flavor with friends and family.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the caramel and even the bars in advance, making it a stress-free dessert option.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy night at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple and wholesome ingredients will be a breeze! You’ll find everything you need right at your local grocery store. Let’s dive into what makes these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars so special:

For the Apple Filling

• 5 medium apples, sliced between 1/8 and 1/4 thick (744 grams sliced)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour (21 grams)
• 1/3 cup light brown sugar, packed (73 grams)
• 1 tbsp cinnamon (7 grams)
• 3/8 tsp nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp allspice
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• pinch of salt

For the Crust/Topping

• 1 and 1/2 cups salted butter, melted (340 grams, or 24 tbsp)
• 3 cups all-purpose flour, spooned & leveled or weighed out (390 grams)
• 2 cups old-fashioned whole rolled oats (195 grams)
• 1 and 1/2 cups light brown sugar, packed (330 grams)
• 1 and 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp salt

For the Salted Caramel Sauce

• 1 cup granulated sugar (210 grams)
• 6 tbsp salted butter, cubed (85 grams)
• 1/2 cup + 1 tbsp heavy cream (135 grams)
• pinch of fine sea salt

Variations

This recipe is flexible! Feel free to get creative and customize it to your liking. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch and flavor.
• Try Different Fruits: Substitute half of the apples with pears for a unique twist on this classic dessert.
• Flavor Boost: Add a splash of vanilla extract or almond extract to the apple filling for an extra layer of flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour blends in place of regular flour for those with dietary restrictions.

How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Step 1: Prep Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350℉. This ensures your bars start cooking evenly from the moment they go in. While that’s heating up, spray a 9×13 pan with nonstick spray and line it with parchment paper. The overhang will help you lift the bars out later—trust me, it’s super helpful!

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling

In a medium bowl, toss together those lovely apple slices with all the filling ingredients. Use a silicone spatula to mix gently; we want those apple slices intact! This step is crucial because it allows the spices to coat each piece evenly, ensuring every bite is flavorful.

Step 3: Make the Crust/Topping

Melt your salted butter in a large bowl. Then stir in all remaining crust ingredients until everything is well combined. The mixture should be crumbly but hold together when pressed; this will create that delightful texture we love!

Step 4: Assemble Your Bars

Now it’s time for layering! Reserve about 2 cups of that crust mixture for later—this will be your topping. Press the rest firmly into your prepared pan as an even base. Give those apples another stir before spooning them over this base layer, making sure to leave behind any extra liquid. Sprinkle on that reserved crust mixture generously—it’s going to create an irresistible topping.

Step 5: Bake Away!

Pop your assembled bars into the oven and bake for about 38 to 45 minutes. Keep an eye on them—they should be golden brown on top, and when you poke through with a fork, those apples should feel tender. While they bake, let’s get started on that luscious caramel sauce!

Step 6: Make Your Salted Caramel Sauce

Follow my detailed salted caramel recipe linked here! It walks you through each step with photos so that you can achieve that perfect consistency without any hassle.

Step 7: Serve & Store

Once baked and cooled on a wire rack for about 1-2 hours, slice up your delicious bars and drizzle them with salted caramel as desired. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge—they stay fresh for about 3-4 days!

Step 8: Make-Ahead Tips

Want to prep ahead? You can make that caramel up to three days ahead! Just microwave it briefly before using if it thickens up too much. The bars themselves can also be made one day ahead—just cool them down at room temperature before refrigerating until you’re ready to serve them.

Enjoy making these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars! They’re sure to become a beloved recipe in your home just like they are in mine!

Pro Tips for Making Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Making Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars can be a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll ensure they’re nothing short of perfect!

• Choose the Right Apples: Opt for a mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for a balanced flavor. This variety will give your bars depth and prevent them from being overly sweet.

• Don’t Overmix the Crust: When combining the crust ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tougher bars instead of a buttery, crumbly texture.

• Layer Carefully: When assembling the bars, be sure to leave behind excess liquid from the apple filling. This prevents sogginess and ensures that your bars hold together beautifully.

• Cool Completely Before Slicing: Allow the bars to cool for at least 1-2 hours before slicing. This helps them set up properly so they don’t crumble when you cut into them.

• Make Extra Caramel Sauce: Always make a bit more caramel sauce than you think you’ll need! It’s perfect for drizzling over each serving or even for drizzling on ice cream for an indulgent treat.

How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Serving these delectable Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars is all about presentation and complementary flavors. Here are some ideas to elevate your dessert experience!

Garnishes

• Whipped Coconut Cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a light, creamy touch that pairs wonderfully with the rich caramel and spiced apples.

• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor contrast. Nuts add a lovely texture that enhances each bite.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream is a classic pairing that balances the warm flavors of the pie bars with its cold creaminess, creating a comforting contrast.

• Coffee or Tea: A hot cup of coffee or herbal tea complements the sweetness of the bars perfectly, making it an ideal after-dinner treat.

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits provides a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the bars; consider using berries or citrus fruits for brightness.

• Caramel Drizzle on Oatmeal: Serve leftover salted caramel over warm oatmeal as a delightful breakfast option that lets you savor those fall flavors any time of day!

With these serving suggestions, your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars will not only taste amazing but also look inviting and delicious! Enjoy sharing this wonderful dessert with friends and family during your next gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious dessert throughout the week without much fuss. Here are some tips on how to store and prepare them in advance!

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
• If you’ve drizzled caramel on top, it’s still best to refrigerate them.
• Keep any extra salted caramel sauce in a separate airtight container in the fridge.

Freezing

• To freeze, cut the bars into portions and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped bars in a freezer-safe container or bag and label with the date.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating

• To reheat, remove desired portions from the fridge or freezer.
• If frozen, let them thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Microwave for 20-30 seconds or place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars that may help you out!

Can I use different types of apples for Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars?

Absolutely! While I recommend using a mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, feel free to experiment with your favorites to find the perfect flavor blend.

How do I make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars vegan?

To make a vegan version, substitute salted butter with plant-based butter and heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream. You can also use maple syrup instead of brown sugar for added richness.

How long do Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, these bars can last up to 3-4 days in the fridge. For longer storage, consider freezing them as mentioned above.

Can I make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the bars up to one day ahead. Just let them cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating until you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars! They’re not just a treat; they’re a warm hug on a plate that brings comfort during those cozy fall days. Enjoy sharing them with family and friends or savoring them all by yourself—they truly are irresistible! Happy baking!