Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that captures the essence of fall, then these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are just what you need! They bring all the warm, cozy flavors of classic apple pie without the fuss of a traditional crust. Imagine biting into perfectly spiced apples nestled between layers of buttery oat crumble, all topped off with a sweet drizzle of salted caramel. It’s a treat that’s perfect for everything from busy weeknights to family gatherings or even just a cozy evening at home.

What makes these bars truly special is how easy they are to whip up. You can make them ahead of time or enjoy them fresh out of the oven—either way, they’re sure to impress! So grab your apron and let’s dive into this delicious recipe together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: With minimal steps and simple ingredients, these bars come together quickly and easily.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves the combination of sweet apples and crumbly topping—perfect for kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: These bars can be prepped in advance, making them an ideal choice for busy schedules or last-minute guests.
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of spices and salted caramel creates a mouthwatering flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars requires just a handful of 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

The beauty of these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars is their flexibility! You can easily customize them based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch that complements the soft apples beautifully.
• Try Different Fruits: Swap out some apples for pears or berries to create your own unique twist on this classic dessert.
• Incorporate Flavors: Mix in some vanilla extract or almond extract to enhance the overall flavor profile of the bars.
• Make Them Gluten-Free: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend, making them suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350℉. This ensures that your bars bake evenly right from the start. While it heats up, spray a 9×13 pan with nonstick spray and line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang. This little trick makes lifting out the bars so much easier later!

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; this will help keep those lovely apple slices intact while ensuring they’re well coated in sweetness and spice. Set this mixture aside as it will create that delicious apple layer we crave.

Step 3: Make the Crust/Topping Mixture

In a large bowl, melt your butter—this is where the magic starts! Stir in the remaining ingredients for the crust and topping until everything is combined. This mixture will form both your base and topping, so it’s vital to get it well-mixed.

Step 4: Assemble Your Bars

Now comes the fun part! Reserve about 2 cups of your crust mixture for topping later. Press down the rest firmly into your prepared pan—this creates a sturdy foundation. Give your apple filling another stir before spooning it evenly over this base. Remember to leave behind any excess liquid! Sprinkle that reserved crust mixture on top, covering those juicy apples.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pop your pan into the oven and bake for about 38 to 45 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you’re aiming for golden-brown topping and tender apples underneath when poked with a fork. While those bars are baking, go ahead and make your salted caramel sauce!

Step 6: Prepare Your Salted Caramel Sauce

Follow my detailed instructions from my salted caramel recipe here to create that luscious drizzle you’ll love! This step adds richness and depth to your bars.

Step 7: Serve & Store

Once baked, allow your bars to cool on a wire rack for about 1-2 hours before slicing them into squares. When you’re ready to serve, drizzle generously with salted caramel—trust me; it takes these bars over-the-top deliciousness! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge; they’ll stay fresh for about 3-4 days.

Step 8: Make-Ahead Tips

Feel free to make your caramel up to three days ahead! Just refrigerate it until you’re ready to use it. If you’ve made extra bars, they can also be prepared one day in advance—just let them cool at room temperature before chilling them in the fridge.

There you have it—delicious Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars ready to enjoy! Whether warm from the oven or chilled from the fridge, they’re fantastic any way you slice them!

Pro Tips for Making Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Making these bars is a breeze, but a few simple tips can take your baking to the next level!

• Choose the Right Apples: Opt for a mix of sweet and tart apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. This combination adds depth to the flavor, making every bite a delightful experience.

• Don’t Skip the Lemon Juice: Tossing your sliced apples with lemon juice prevents browning and enhances their natural flavor. It also balances the sweetness of the brown sugar in the filling.

• Let Them Cool Before Slicing: Allowing the bars to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing ensures they hold their shape. Warm bars might fall apart, so patience pays off!

• Use Quality Ingredients for Caramel: Opt for high-quality salted butter and cream when making your caramel sauce. The richness will elevate your dessert from good to spectacular.

• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your personal taste. A pinch more cinnamon or nutmeg can make all the difference in creating your perfect fall flavor profile.

How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful dessert!

Garnishes

• Whipped Coconut Cream: Add a dollop of whipped coconut cream on top for a creamy contrast that complements the sweetness of the bars.
• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts over the caramel drizzle for an added crunch and nutty flavor.
• Fresh Mint Leaves: A few sprigs of fresh mint provide a pop of color and freshness that brightens up each slice.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing! The creamy texture and cool temperature balance out the warmth of the pie bars perfectly.
• Caramel Sauce Dip: Serve extra salted caramel sauce on the side for those who want an indulgent dip with each bite.
• Spiced Hot Cider: This warm beverage enhances the autumn flavors in your bars, creating a cozy atmosphere that’s hard to resist.
• Fresh Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits like pears and berries offers a refreshing contrast to the rich, sweet flavors of the pie bars.

Now that you have these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress your friends and family with these delightful Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch ahead of time, making them a delightful treat for busy days or special occasions.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
• If they have salted caramel drizzled on top, I still recommend storing them in the fridge to keep everything fresh.
• Any leftover caramel sauce can be kept in a separate airtight container in the fridge.

Freezing

• To freeze, slice the bars and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• To enjoy warm bars, microwave individual pieces for about 20-30 seconds until heated through.
• If they’ve been frozen, let them thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Have questions about making Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars? Here are some common inquiries!

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

Yes! A mix of sweet and tart apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp will give your bars great flavor and texture. Feel free to experiment with your favorites!

How do I make my Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars even more decadent?

For an extra indulgent treat, try adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the oat crumble topping. This will add a wonderful crunch and enhance the flavor!

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free. The bars will still turn out delicious!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars! With their delightful combination of spiced apples and rich caramel, they’re sure to become a favorite dessert. Whether enjoyed warm from the oven or chilled from the fridge, each bite is filled with comfort and happiness. Enjoy creating this special treat, and I can’t wait for you to share it with friends and family!