Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that brings all the cozy flavors of fall into one easy-to-make treat, look no further than these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars! This recipe has quickly become a favorite in my home. Each bite is filled with sweet, spiced apples nestled between a crunchy oat crumble, all topped off with a heavenly salted caramel drizzle. It’s like having apple pie without the fuss of making a traditional crust!

These bars are perfect for any occasion—from busy weeknights to family gatherings or just because you need something sweet to brighten your day. They are always a hit and leave everyone asking for seconds. So grab your baking pan, and let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: These bars come together in no time, making them perfect for busy bakers.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the warm flavors of apples and caramel.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake them a day before your event for easy preparation.
• Versatile Treat: Serve them warm with ice cream or chilled for a refreshing dessert.
• Delicious Flavor: Each bite bursts with the comforting tastes of cinnamon and caramel.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars is simple, thanks to wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry! Here’s what you’ll need:

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 and 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 wonderfully flexible! Here are some ideas to customize your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars:

• Change up the fruit: Use pears or peaches instead of apples for a different flavor twist.
• Add nuts: Mix in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Try different spices: Experiment with ginger or cardamom for unique flavor notes.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend if needed.

How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350℉. While that’s warming up, grab a 9×13 pan and spray it with nonstick spray. Line it with parchment paper, ensuring there’s enough overhang on the sides. This makes lifting the bars out super easy later!

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling

In a medium bowl, toss together those lovely apple slices with lemon juice and all other filling ingredients. Use a silicone spatula to gently mix everything so you don’t break those precious slices. Letting this mixture sit allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 3: Make the Crust/Topping

In a large bowl, melt the butter—this will give our bars that rich flavor! Stir in the remaining ingredients until everything is well combined. The mixture should be crumbly but hold together when pressed.

Step 4: Assemble the Bars

Now, it’s time to put it all together! Set aside about two cups of that crust mixture for topping later. Press the rest into your prepared pan evenly. Spoon those delicious apple slices over the base, leaving behind any excess liquid. Then sprinkle that reserved crust mixture on top—this creates a beautiful golden topping when baked.

Step 5: Bake It Up!

Slide 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, you can start working on your caramel sauce!

Step 6: Make Your Salted Caramel Sauce

Follow my detailed salted caramel recipe to whip up this delicious sauce while your bars cool down. Trust me; you’ll want this drizzled generously over each bar!

Step 7: Serve & Store

Once cooled on a wire rack for about one to two hours, slice those beautiful bars! Drizzle them with salted caramel as desired before serving. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge—they’ll stay fresh for about three to four days. And don’t forget—any extra caramel deserves its own special jar in your fridge!

Step 8: Make-Ahead Tips

Want to plan ahead? You can make your caramel up to three days in advance—just reheat it gently before using it again! The bars can also be made one day ahead; just let them cool at room temperature before refrigerating.

Enjoy every bite of these delightful Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars! They’re sure to become a family favorite just like they are in mine!

Pro Tips for Making Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Making these delicious bars can be even more rewarding with a few simple tips that ensure success every time. Here are some tried-and-true suggestions to elevate your baking game!

• Choose the Right Apples: Opt for a mix of tart and sweet apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. This balance enhances the flavor of your filling and gives a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the caramel.
• Don’t Skip the Lemon Juice: Adding lemon juice not only prevents the apples from browning but also adds a bright acidity that balances the sweetness of the brown sugar and caramel.
• Let Them Cool Completely: Allowing the bars to cool on a wire rack before slicing is crucial. This helps them firm up, making it easier to cut clean slices without falling apart.
• Make Extra Caramel Sauce: If you have leftover salted caramel sauce, it’s fantastic drizzled over ice cream, pancakes, or even stirred into coffee for an indulgent treat!
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your preference. A pinch of ginger or cardamom can add an exciting twist to the traditional flavor profile of apple pie.

How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

When it comes to serving these delectable bars, presentation can make all the difference! Here are some ideas that will impress your guests and enhance their experience.

Garnishes

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top adds a light and airy touch that complements the richness of the bars.
• Crushed Nuts: Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top for an added crunch and nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with caramel.
• Cinnamon Dusting: A light dusting of cinnamon right before serving adds an aromatic finish that visually enhances the dessert and amplifies its warm flavors.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream provides a delightful contrast to the chewy bars and melts into warm bites for pure bliss.
• Hot Chocolate: A cup of rich hot chocolate makes a comforting pairing, especially during chilly fall evenings. Its warmth complements the spiced flavors of the bars.
• Mixed Berry Salad: A refreshing mixed berry salad brings brightness to the table, balancing out the sweetness with tartness. Plus, it adds vibrant color!
• Coffee or Tea: Offering a warm beverage like coffee or herbal tea can enhance your dessert experience while providing a lovely way to wind down after enjoying these treats.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars will not only taste amazing but also look stunning at any gathering! Enjoy baking—and indulging!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time and enjoy their delightful flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing.
• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• If topped with salted caramel, refrigerate them whether or not they have the caramel on top.

Freezing

• Slice the bars and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat individual bars in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds.
• Alternatively, warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
• Drizzle with extra salted caramel before serving for a delicious touch!

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars.

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

Absolutely! You can use any variety of apples you prefer. A mix of sweet and tart apples, like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, adds great depth of flavor!

How do I prevent my Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars from getting soggy?

To avoid sogginess, make sure to drain excess liquid from the apple filling before layering it over the crust. The oat crumble topping also helps absorb moisture.

Can I make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free. They will still be delicious!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to try these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars as I was when creating them! They capture all the comforting flavors of fall in an easy-to-make dessert. Whether you enjoy them warm out of the oven or chilled from the fridge, they’re sure to impress your family and friends. Happy baking, and may your kitchen always be filled with love and delicious aromas!