Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

If you’re looking for a dessert that captures the essence of fall, then 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. Whenever I make these bars, I can’t help but feel a warm sense of nostalgia—it’s like wrapping up in a cozy blanket while enjoying the sweet aroma of baking apples and caramel wafting through the house.

These delightful bars are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a busy weeknight dessert or the star of your next family gathering. With their spiced apple filling nestled between a buttery oat crumble, they are sure to impress everyone at the table. Trust me; once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why this recipe is such a favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have these delicious bars ready to bake.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves apple pie, and these bars are no exception! They’re great for both kids and adults.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the caramel in advance and save time on busy days!
• Perfectly portable: Great for potlucks or picnics, these bars are easy to slice and share with friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars. You likely already have many of them 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/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! Feel free to mix things up with these fun variations:

• Swap the apples: Try using pears or a mix of different apples for unique flavors.
• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for an added crunch.
• Change the spices: Experiment with pumpkin pie spice instead of traditional spices for a different twist.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend.

How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

First things first! Preheat your oven to 350℉. Spray a 9×13 pan with nonstick spray and line it with parchment paper. Leave enough overhang on both ends so you can lift out the bars later—this little trick makes slicing so much easier!

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling

In a medium bowl, toss together those lovely apple slices with lemon juice and all the other apple filling ingredients. Use a silicone spatula to gently mix everything together without breaking up those beautiful apple slices. Once well combined, set it aside to let those flavors meld.

Step 3: Make the Crust/Topping

Melt your salted butter in a large bowl—this will give our crust that rich flavor we love! Stir in the remaining bar ingredients until everything is nicely combined. The mixture should be crumbly but hold together when pressed.

Step 4: Assemble Your Bars

Here comes the fun part! Reserve about 2 cups of that crust mixture for topping later. Press the rest firmly into your prepared pan to create an even base. Give those spiced apples another good stir before spooning them over your crust layer—try to leave behind any excess liquid if possible. Finally, sprinkle that reserved crust mixture on top!

Step 5: Bake To Perfection

Bake these beauties for about 38 to 45 minutes until golden brown on top. You’ll know they’re ready when you can pierce through with a fork and feel tender apples underneath. While they bake, it’s a perfect time to whip up your salted caramel sauce!

Step 6: Make Your Salted Caramel Sauce

Follow my detailed recipe here for making salted caramel sauce—it’s super easy! While your bars cool, this will be waiting for that perfect drizzle.

Step 7: Serve & Store

When you’re ready to enjoy, slice those delectable bars and drizzle them with salted caramel as desired. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3-4 days. And don’t forget—extra caramel can also be stored away for another treat!

Step 8: Make-Ahead Tips

Want to save some time? You can make that delicious caramel sauce up to three days ahead and keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to use it. Just microwave it briefly to loosen it up again! The bars themselves can also be made up to one day ahead; just let them cool at room temperature before refrigerating.

Enjoy every bite of these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars—it’s comfort food at its finest!

Pro Tips for Making Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Making Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars is a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures every time!

• Choose the Right Apples: Opt for a mix of sweet and tart apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. This combination enhances the flavor profile, making your pie bars more complex and enjoyable.

• Don’t Skip the Lemon Juice: Adding lemon juice to your apple filling not only prevents browning but also brightens the flavors. It complements the sweetness of the brown sugar beautifully.

• Use Cold Butter for the Crust: When making your crust mixture, make sure your melted butter has cooled slightly before adding it. This ensures a crumbly texture that crisps up nicely in the oven.

• Let Them Cool Before Slicing: Allowing your bars to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing helps them hold their shape. This will make for cleaner cuts and a better presentation!

• Drizzle Generously with Caramel: Don’t be shy with the salted caramel sauce! A generous drizzle elevates each bite and adds an irresistible gooeyness that everyone will love.

How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Serving these delicious Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars can be just as fun as making them! Here are some creative ideas to present this delightful dessert at your next gathering.

Garnishes

• Whipped Coconut Cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream on top adds a light, fluffy texture that beautifully contrasts with the dense bars.
• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some finely chopped walnuts or pecans over the caramel drizzle for added crunch and flavor.
• Fresh Mint Leaves: A few sprigs of mint not only add a pop of color but also provide a refreshing herbal note to balance the sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic pairing! A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream complements the warm bars perfectly.
• Spiced Chai Tea: Serve alongside a warm cup of spiced chai tea, which enhances the fall flavors in the pie bars while offering a cozy beverage option.
• Caramelized Pears: Sautéing pears in a bit of butter with cinnamon creates a luscious side dish that pairs wonderfully with apple flavors.
• Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese. The creaminess cuts through the sweetness of the bars, providing a delightful contrast.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to create an unforgettable dessert experience with your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are perfect for meal prep, making them a great choice for gatherings or simply to enjoy throughout the week. With a little planning, you can have these delicious bars ready to go whenever a craving strikes!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing.
• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• If topped with caramel, it’s best to keep them refrigerated to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• Slice the bars and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped bars in a freezer-safe container or bag, ensuring they are sealed tightly.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.

Reheating

• To reheat, place a bar on a microwave-safe plate.
• Warm in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or until just heated through.
• For a crispy topping, reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions related to Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars.

Can I use other fruits besides apples for this recipe?

Yes! While this recipe is specifically for Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars, you can easily swap apples with other fruits like pears or peaches for a delightful twist.

How do I make the salted caramel sauce for my apple pie bars?

Follow my detailed salted caramel sauce recipe linked above. It’s simple and adds that perfect sweet and salty flavor to your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars!

What kind of apples work best for baking?

For baking, tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold their shape well and provide a nice balance of sweetness and tartness in your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour, and ensure that your oats are certified gluten-free.

How should I serve these delicious bars?

Slice your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars into squares and drizzle with extra salted caramel sauce before serving. They’re delightful warm or chilled!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars as much as I do! They encapsulate the comforting flavors of fall while being incredibly easy to prepare. Enjoy sharing them with friends and family or savoring them solo. No matter how you choose to indulge, these bars are sure to become a cherished favorite. Happy baking!