Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

If you’re looking for a dessert that captures the essence of fall while being incredibly easy to make, these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are just the ticket! They bring all the cozy flavors of traditional apple pie but with way less fuss. Imagine buttery, spiced apples nestled between a sweet and crunchy oat crumble—yum! Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, these bars are sure to please everyone.

What makes this recipe special is not only its delightful taste but also its versatility. You can whip it up for a potluck, enjoy it on a cozy night with loved ones, or even serve it as a sweet treat for weekend brunch. Trust me, once you try these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars, they will become a new favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: These bars come together quickly, perfect for when you’re short on time but still want something delicious.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves apple pie, and this bar version is easy to slice and serve.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake them in advance; they taste great warm or chilled!
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of spiced apples and salted caramel is simply heavenly!
• Perfect for Sharing: With 15-24 servings, they’re ideal for gatherings or just sharing with friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s chat about the ingredients! This recipe uses simple and wholesome items that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you need to create these tasty 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

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
• Switch up the spices: Experiment with pumpkin pie spice for a different flavor profile.
• Use different fruits: Substitute pears or peaches if you want to mix things up!
• Make it dairy-free: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream in the caramel sauce.

How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350℉. This step is key because it ensures your bars bake evenly. While that’s heating up, grab your 9×13 pan—spray it with nonstick spray and line it with parchment paper. The parchment will help you lift the bars out easily later!

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling

In a medium bowl, toss together your sliced apples with lemon juice and all those delightful spices. Stir gently so you don’t break up those lovely apple slices. Mixing well ensures each bite is bursting with flavor!

Step 3: Make the Crust/Topping

Melt your butter in a large bowl—this adds richness and flavor to both the crust and topping. After melting, stir in the remaining crust ingredients until everything is well combined. This mixture should be crumbly yet cohesive.

Step 4: Assemble Your Bars

Set aside about 2 cups of that crust mixture for topping later. Press the rest firmly into your prepared pan—this forms the base! Spoon those spiced apples over your crust layer evenly; remember to leave any excess liquid behind. Finally, sprinkle that reserved crust mixture on top for a crunchy finish.

Step 5: Bake Your Bars

Pop your assembled bars into the oven and bake them for about 38 to 45 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the topping is golden brown, and your apples feel tender when pierced with a fork. While they bake, let’s move on to making that luscious caramel sauce!

Step 6: Make the Salted Caramel Sauce

Follow my detailed instructions from my salted caramel recipe here! It’s simple and brings an amazing touch of sweetness that pairs perfectly with your bars.

Step 7: Serve & Store

When your bars have cooled down on a wire rack for about 1-2 hours, slice them up! Drizzle those glorious salted caramel ribbons on top just before serving. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in your fridge for about 3-4 days—they stay delicious!

Step 8: Make-Ahead Tips

Want to prepare ahead? You can make that salted caramel sauce up to three days in advance! Just store it in the fridge and warm it slightly before using. The bars themselves can be baked one day ahead too; just let them cool completely before refrigerating.

Enjoy making these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars—they’re sure to become a cherished recipe you’ll share again and again!

Pro Tips for Making Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Making these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars can be a delightful experience, and with a few helpful tips, you can ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Choose the Right Apples: Opt for a mix of sweet and tart apples, like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. This balance brings out complex flavors, making your pie bars even more delicious.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: If possible, let your ingredients come to room temperature before mixing. This helps the butter incorporate more smoothly into the crust mixture, leading to a better texture in your bars.

• Don’t Skip the Cooling Time: Allowing the bars to cool completely before slicing is crucial. This cooling period helps them set properly so they hold their shape when cut, making for neat slices.

• Experiment with Caramel Toppings: Feel free to get creative with your salted caramel sauce! You can add a sprinkle of flaked sea salt or even drizzle some chocolate over the top for an extra special touch.

• Store Properly for Freshness: Keep any leftover bars in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for several days and can be enjoyed cold or warmed up for a comforting treat!

How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Serving your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars can be just as fun as making them! With a few thoughtful touches, you can impress family and friends at any gathering.

Garnishes

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream on top adds a luscious creaminess that complements the sweetness of the caramel and apples.
• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some crushed walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and flavor contrast.
• Cinnamon Dusting: A light dusting of cinnamon over the bars just before serving enhances their warm autumnal flavor.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with warm apple pie bars, creating a classic dessert combination that’s hard to resist.
• Spiced Chai Tea: This aromatic beverage complements the spices in your apple pie bars while providing a cozy drink option.
• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad balances the richness of the pie bars and adds a burst of color to your dessert table.
• Cheese Platter: Offer a selection of cheeses like sharp cheddar or creamy brie; their savory notes create an interesting contrast with the sweet apple filling.

By following these serving suggestions, you can elevate your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars into an unforgettable dessert experience that everyone will love! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are perfect for meal prep! You can whip them up in advance for a cozy gathering or simply to enjoy throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store bars in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
• If you’ve drizzled caramel on top, I still recommend refrigerating them to maintain freshness.
• Any leftover salted caramel sauce should also be stored in an airtight container or jar in the fridge.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the bars cool completely, then slice them into individual pieces.
• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight before serving.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat bars in the oven at 350℉ for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• You can also use a microwave; just heat each bar for about 20-30 seconds until warm.

FAQs

If you have questions about these delicious bars, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

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

Absolutely! While I recommend a mix of sweet and tart apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for balanced flavor, feel free to experiment with your favorites.

How do I make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars without gluten?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup. Ensure your oats are labeled gluten-free as well!

How long do Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars last?

These bars will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days when stored properly!

Can I make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars vegan?

Yes! Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for the caramel sauce.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars as much as I do! They’re not just a delightful dessert but also a way to bring warmth and joy into your home. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or savoring them solo, they promise to brighten your day. Happy baking!