Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

If you’re looking for a cozy dessert that brings the warmth of fall into your home, these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are just what you need! They combine all the comforting flavors of classic apple pie but come together in a fraction of the time. The best part? You get to enjoy sweet, spiced apples nestled between a buttery oat crumble that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, these bars will become your new go-to treat.

Imagine serving these delightful bars at your next gathering or cozying up with them on a chilly evening. Drizzled with rich salted caramel, they are sure to impress everyone around your table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: No need for pie crust skills here! The oat crumble serves as both the base and topping, cutting down on prep time.
• Perfect for sharing: With 15 to 24 servings, they’re great for parties or potlucks where you want to wow your friends.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare the caramel in advance and the bars can be made a day ahead—perfect for stress-free entertaining!
• Comforting fall flavors: Spiced apples and warm caramel remind you of autumn days spent picking apples at the orchard.
• Deliciously versatile: Customize them with your favorite nuts or spices for an extra special touch.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything you need to whip up these delightful Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars!

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

One of the best things about these bars is their flexibility! Here are some fun ideas to mix things up:

• Add some crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the apple filling for extra texture.
• Switch up the spices: Feel free to play with different spices like ginger or cardamom to suit your taste.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute gluten-free flour blends for regular flour if you’re looking for a gluten-free option.
• Fruit fusion: Add dried cranberries or raisins along with the apples for an added fruity twist.

How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

First things first! Preheat your oven to 350℉. This ensures that your bars bake evenly. Grease a 9×13 pan with nonstick spray and line it with parchment paper. Leave some overhang so you can easily lift out the bars later!

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling

In a medium bowl, combine your sliced apples with lemon juice and all those warm spices. Toss them gently so you don’t break up those lovely slices. This step is crucial as it allows the apples to soak up all that sweetness from the sugar and spices while they sit.

Step 3: Make the Crust/Topping

In a large bowl, melt your butter. Stir in all remaining ingredients until well combined—this mixture will form both the crust and topping. The melted butter helps create that deliciously crumbly texture we’re after!

Step 4: Assemble Your Bars

Now comes the fun part! Reserve about 2 cups of that crust mixture for later. Press the rest firmly into your prepared pan as the base layer. Spoon those delicious spiced apple slices over this base, leaving any excess liquid behind in the bowl. Finish by sprinkling that reserved crust mixture on top.

Step 5: Bake

Place your assembled bars in the oven for about 38 to 45 minutes. You’re looking for a golden topping and tender apples when pierced with a fork. While they bake, it’s perfect timing to whip up that luscious salted caramel sauce!

Step 6: Make Your Salted Caramel Sauce

Follow my salted caramel recipe linked here—it’s super easy! Just remember, patience is key while making caramel; let it bubble away until it’s perfectly golden.

Step 7: Serve & Store

Once cooled on a wire rack for about an hour or two, slice those beautiful bars! Drizzle generously with salted caramel before serving. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in your fridge—they’ll stay fresh for about three to four days.

Step 8: Make-Ahead Tips

You can make that glorious caramel sauce up to three days ahead—just reheat it gently when you’re ready! And if you’ve prepped these bars ahead of time, they’ll be scrumptious warm or chilled right from the fridge.

These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are such a treat! I hope they bring joy and comfort into your home as they have mine!

Pro Tips for Making Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Creating the perfect Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars is all about attention to detail, and I’m here to help you make them even more delightful!

• Choose the Right Apples: Opt for a mix of sweet and tart apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for a balanced flavor. This combo ensures that your bars have a lovely depth of taste that’s not overly sweet.

• Don’t Skip the Lemon Juice: Adding lemon juice to your apple filling helps maintain the apples’ bright color and adds a subtle tanginess that complements the sweetness perfectly.

• Let Them Cool Before Slicing: After baking, allow your bars to cool for at least 1-2 hours. This resting period helps them set up nicely, making it easier to cut clean slices without them falling apart.

• Make Extra Caramel Sauce: If you love caramel (who doesn’t?), consider doubling the sauce recipe! It can be drizzled over ice cream or used in other desserts, ensuring you never run out of that deliciousness.

• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices in the apple filling. A little extra cinnamon or a dash of ginger can add an exciting twist that personalizes this recipe just for you!

How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Presenting your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars can turn a simple dessert into an impressive treat for family and friends. Let’s explore some delightful serving ideas!

Garnishes

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream adds a light and airy texture that beautifully contrasts with the rich flavors of the bars.
• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle crushed walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and nuttiness; they also enhance the autumn vibe!
• Caramel Drizzle: Elevate your presentation by drizzling extra salted caramel sauce over each slice before serving. It makes each bite feel indulgent!

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream paired with warm bars creates a comforting contrast in temperatures—pure bliss!
• Spiced Chai Tea: Serving these bars with a warm cup of spiced chai tea complements their flavors wonderfully while adding a cozy touch.
• Fresh Fruit Salad: A light, refreshing fruit salad can balance out the richness of the bars, making it a perfect palate cleanser.
• Cheese Platter: For those who enjoy savory contrasts, a small cheese platter with mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese can provide an interesting flavor experience alongside the sweetness.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are sure to be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and store them, making your life easier when you need a delicious dessert ready to go.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• If you’ve added caramel on top, it’s best to refrigerate them regardless.
• Any leftover salted caramel sauce should also be stored in an airtight container or jar in the fridge.

Freezing

• To freeze, cut the bars into individual portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped bars in a freezer-safe container or bag for extra protection.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge before enjoying!

Reheating

• For warmth, reheat individual bars in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
• If you’re serving a larger batch, reheat them in a 350°F oven until warmed through (about 10-15 minutes).
• Drizzle with fresh salted caramel after reheating for that perfect finish!

FAQs

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

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

Absolutely! While Granny Smith is a great choice for its tartness, feel free to mix and match with Honeycrisp, Fuji, or any apples you love. Just ensure they’re firm enough to hold their shape while baking.

How do I make vegan Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars?

To make these bars vegan, substitute the butter with plant-based alternatives like coconut oil or vegan butter. Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for the salted caramel sauce. The flavors will still shine through!

Can I prepare Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars without oats?

Yes! If you’d prefer a traditional crust instead of oats, you can replace the oat mixture with an additional amount of flour and butter. Just make sure to adjust the quantities accordingly.

What’s the best way to serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars?

These bars are delicious served warm with a drizzle of salted caramel sauce. Pair them with a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream for an irresistible treat!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find as much joy in making these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars as I do! They’re not just a dessert; they embody the cozy essence of fall and family gatherings. Enjoy every bite, share them with loved ones, and don’t forget to savor that delightful combination of spiced apples and rich caramel. Happy baking!