Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are just the thing! This recipe has become a favorite in my home because it combines all the wonderful flavors of classic apple pie with the simplicity of bars. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, you’ll find that everyone loves the gooey spiced apples paired with that delightful salted caramel drizzle.

Baking these bars is not only easy but also a fun way to fill your kitchen with the cozy scents of cinnamon and baked apples. Trust me; once you make them, they’ll quickly become a staple in your fall dessert lineup!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and minimal fuss, you’ll have these delicious bars ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone from kids to grandparents will appreciate the comforting flavors packed into each bite.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can easily prepare these bars a day ahead or even make the salted caramel sauce in advance.
• Versatile Serving Options: Whether you serve them warm, at room temperature, or chilled, they’re delightful every way!
• Decadent Flavor: The combination of sweet apples and rich salted caramel creates an irresistible treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars come together with simple and wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious treat:

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 customize these bars to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some ideas:

• Add Nuts: Stir in some chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch.
• Spice It Up: Experiment with different spices like ginger or cardamom for an added twist.
• Use Different Fruits: Swap out some apples for pears or berries if you’re feeling adventurous!
• Top It Off: For extra indulgence, add a scoop of dairy-free ice cream on top when serving.

How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350℉. This step is important as it ensures even baking. Next, spray a 9×13 pan with nonstick spray and line it with parchment paper. Leave some overhang on the ends so you can lift out the bars later—trust me; this little trick makes slicing so much easier!

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling

In a medium bowl, toss together your sliced apples with all the apple filling ingredients. Stir gently using a silicone spatula to avoid breaking up those lovely apple slices. Well-mixed apples mean every bite will be bursting with flavor!

Step 3: Make the Crust/Topping

In a large bowl, melt your salted butter. Then stir in all remaining ingredients for the crust/topping mixture. This step is key because it creates that delicious oat crumble that will hold everything together while adding texture.

Step 4: Assemble Your Bars

Now it’s time to put everything together! Reserve about 2 cups of your crust mixture for topping later. Press the remaining mixture into your prepared pan firmly—it helps create a solid base for those juicy apples. Spoon over your apple filling evenly and sprinkle that reserved crust mixture on top.

Step 5: Bake It Up!

Pop those bars into your preheated oven and bake for about 38 to 45 minutes. Keep an eye on them; when they turn golden brown and feel tender when poked with a fork, they’re ready! While they bake, let’s whip up that luscious caramel sauce.

Step 6: Make the Salted Caramel Sauce

Follow my detailed instructions here for making salted caramel sauce—you’re going to love how easy it is! This sauce will take these bars from good to absolutely glorious.

Step 7: Serve & Store

When you’re ready to enjoy, slice those beautiful bars and drizzle generously with salted caramel sauce! These can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3-4 days—though I doubt they’ll last that long!

Step 8: Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to plan ahead, you can make that caramel sauce up to three days in advance! Just pop it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it. The bars themselves can be made one day ahead too—just cool them at room temperature first before refrigerating.

Enjoy these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars—they’re sure to steal hearts at any gathering!

Pro Tips for Making Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Baking these delicious Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars can be a breeze with a few helpful tips to ensure your dessert turns out perfectly!

• Use a Variety of Apples: Combining different types of apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, enhances the flavor and texture of your filling. This mix creates a delightful balance between tartness and sweetness.
• Don’t Skip the Cooling Time: Allowing the bars to cool completely before slicing is crucial. This helps the layers set properly, making it easier to cut clean slices without the filling spilling out.
• Make Extra Caramel Sauce: If you love caramel as much as I do, consider making an extra batch! It’s perfect for drizzling over ice cream or pancakes, adding a touch of sweetness to other desserts.
• Store Properly: Keep your bars in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness. This not only extends their shelf life but also helps develop the flavors even more!
• Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to customize your bars by adding nuts or chocolate chips into the crust mixture. This adds texture and makes every bite even more indulgent.

How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Serving these lovely bars can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some ideas on how to present them beautifully!

Garnishes

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of light whipped cream on top adds a creamy element that complements the rich caramel and spiced apples.
• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkling some toasted pecans or walnuts on top provides a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the softness of the pie bars.
• Cinnamon Dusting: A light dusting of cinnamon powder right before serving not only looks appealing but also enhances the warm, inviting aroma.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream served alongside the bars creates a classic pairing that balances out the warm flavors with cool creaminess.
• Hot Tea or Coffee: Serving these bars with a cup of warm chai tea or freshly brewed coffee complements their rich flavors beautifully, making for a cozy dessert time.
• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits provides a light contrast to the dense and sweet apple pie bars, making it an excellent side option.
• Cheese Platter: Pairing your dessert with a small cheese platter featuring mild cheeses can create an interesting flavor combination that surprises and delights your guests.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set for a delightful experience with your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are perfect for meal prep, making them an ideal dessert to whip up in advance. You can enjoy them throughout the week, saving time while indulging in a delicious treat!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing.
• Store the sliced bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• If you have leftover salted caramel sauce, keep it in a separate airtight container or jar in the fridge.

Freezing

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped bars in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• To enjoy warm bars, place them on a microwave-safe plate.
• Microwave for 20-30 seconds until warmed through.
• Drizzle with freshly made salted caramel sauce before serving for extra indulgence.

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! A mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp works wonderfully. They add depth and balance to the flavor of your pie bars.

How do I make the salted caramel sauce for Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars?

You can follow my detailed salted caramel recipe linked above. It’s simple to make and adds that perfect finishing touch to your pie bars!

How long do Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, these bars will last in the fridge for about 3-4 days and can be frozen for up to 2 months.

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

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring it’s suitable for baking. The results will still be delicious!

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

These bars are delightful served warm or at room temperature, with a generous drizzle of salted caramel sauce on top. Enjoy with a scoop of non-dairy ice cream if desired!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars! They blend comforting flavors and textures into each bite, perfect for any occasion or just a cozy evening at home. Don’t hesitate to share your creations; I’d love to see how they turn out. Happy baking!