Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

If you’re looking for a cozy dessert that captures the essence of fall, then you have to try these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars! They are the perfect blend of sweet and tart, with a delightful crumble topping that makes every bite unforgettable. What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to make—perfect for busy weeknights or those family gatherings where everyone’s craving something special. Trust me, once you taste these bars, they’ll become a staple in your home!

These bars bring all the warm, comforting flavors of apple pie without the fuss of a crust. Just think about sinking your teeth into tender spiced apples layered between a crunchy oat topping, all drizzled with rich salted caramel sauce. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven or as an afternoon snack with your favorite cup of tea, they’re sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you’ll have these delicious bars ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves apple pie, and these bars are no exception. Perfect for kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare ahead of time and store them in the fridge for whenever a sweet craving strikes.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of spiced apples and salted caramel creates a mouthwatering treat that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Get ready to gather everything you need to create these delicious 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/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 enough to cater to different tastes! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for an added crunch.
• Mix Up the Apples: Use a mix of different apple varieties like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for a depth of flavor.
• Try Different Spices: Experiment by adding ginger or cardamom for a unique twist on the traditional spice blend.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend for a friendly option.

How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350℉. Greasing your pan is key here; spray a 9×13 pan with nonstick spray and line it with parchment paper. Leave some overhang on the ends so you can easily lift out those gorgeous bars later!

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling

In a medium bowl, toss together those sliced apples with all the filling ingredients. A gentle stir with a silicone spatula helps keep those slices intact while ensuring they’re well coated. Set this aside as we move on to making our crust.

Step 3: Make the Crust/Topping

Melt that delicious salted butter in a large bowl—this is what brings moisture and richness to our bars! Once melted, stir in the remaining bar ingredients until everything is combined into a crumbly mixture.

Step 4: Assemble Your Bars

Reserve about 2 cups of that crumb mixture for later. Press down the rest into your prepared pan to form an even base. Spoon your apple filling over this layer, ensuring it’s evenly spread while leaving any excess liquid behind. Top it off by sprinkling on that reserved crumb mixture.

Step 5: Bake Away!

Pop those bars in your preheated oven and bake for about 38 to 45 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the topping turns golden brown and the apples feel tender when you poke through with a fork. While they bake, let’s whip up that luscious caramel sauce!

Step 6: Make Your Salted Caramel Sauce

Follow my detailed salted caramel recipe linked here! It’s worth it for that perfectly smooth finish you’ll drizzle over your bars later.

Step 7: Serve & Store

Once those bars are out of the oven, let them cool on a wire rack for about 1-2 hours before slicing them up into portions. Drizzle generously with salted caramel right before serving! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge—if there are any leftovers!

Step 8: Make-Ahead Tips

Want to plan ahead? You can make your caramel sauce up to three days ahead—just reheat it gently if needed! The bars themselves can be made one day before serving; just cool them at room temperature before refrigerating.

Enjoy every delicious bite of these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars! They truly capture all those warm feelings associated with autumn gatherings and family traditions.

Pro Tips for Making Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Making these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars is a delightful experience, and with a few helpful tips, you can take your baking game to the next level!

• Use a variety of apples: Mixing different types of apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp will enhance the flavor profile and provide a great balance of tartness and sweetness.
• Don’t skip the chilling time: Allowing the bars to cool completely before slicing helps them set up nicely, making it easier to cut clean bars that hold their shape.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your taste; adding a pinch of cardamom or ginger can give these bars an exciting twist!
• Double-check your oven temperature: Ovens can vary in accuracy. Keep an eye on your bars while they bake, as slight adjustments may be necessary based on how your oven performs.
• Store properly for freshness: Keeping the bars in an airtight container not only preserves their delicious flavor but also keeps them moist and chewy for days.

How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

These bars are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a festive holiday party. Here are some delightful ideas on how to present them!

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a light, fluffy texture that complements the rich caramel and spiced apples beautifully.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top for an added crunch that enhances both flavor and presentation.
• A dusting of powdered sugar: A light dusting adds elegance and a touch of sweetness without overwhelming the dish.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a classic pairing that contrasts perfectly with the warm bars.
• Cinnamon-spiced chai: A comforting cup of chai tea enhances the cozy flavors in your dessert while providing a wonderful aromatic experience.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad can balance out the richness of the bars with its bright and fruity flavors, making for a well-rounded dessert experience.
• Cheese platter: A selection of mild cheeses like brie or gouda can create an intriguing savory contrast to the sweet apple pie bars.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars in style! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week, making them a delightful treat that fits perfectly into your busy schedule.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the bars in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
• If you’ve drizzled them with salted caramel, it’s best to refrigerate them regardless.
• For extra caramel sauce, keep it in a separate airtight container or jar in the fridge.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying!

Reheating

• For a warm treat, reheat bars in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds.
• If you prefer them at room temperature, simply let them sit out for a while before serving.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delicious recipe:

Can I make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars without oats?

Absolutely! If you prefer not to use oats, you can substitute them with crushed graham crackers or additional flour to maintain that crumble texture.

How do I know when my Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are done baking?

The bars are done when the topping is golden brown and the apples feel tender when pierced with a fork. Keep an eye on them towards the end of baking!

What kind of apples work best for Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars?

For the best flavor and texture, use a mix of tart apples like Granny Smith and sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji. This balance enhances both taste and consistency.

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of making my own?

Yes! While homemade salted caramel adds a special touch, store-bought caramel sauce works wonderfully as well. Just drizzle generously over your pie bars!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars! They’re not only an easy way to satisfy your sweet tooth but also bring warmth and comfort to any gathering. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or chilled from the fridge, these bars are sure to delight family and friends alike. Happy baking!