Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

If you’re looking for a cozy dessert that captures the essence of fall, then these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are for you! Picture this: tender apples spiced just right, nestled between a sweet and buttery crumble. It’s like taking a bite of your favorite apple pie but without the fuss of making a full pie. These bars are perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings where everyone will be reaching for seconds (or thirds!). Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a staple in your dessert rotation.

What makes this recipe extra special is the addition of homemade salted caramel sauce drizzled on top. It adds that perfect touch of indulgence, turning simple apple bars into something truly spectacular. Whether you’re enjoying them warm out of the oven or chilled from the fridge, every bite is a delightful treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just one bowl for mixing and minimal prep time, these bars come together quickly.
• Family-friendly: The sweet flavors and comforting spices appeal to everyone, making them a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for sharing: Bake these bars to impress at potlucks or family gatherings; they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the caramel in advance and even bake the bars a day ahead—perfect for stress-free entertaining.
• Deliciously versatile: Enjoy them as they are, or customize with your favorite toppings!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to make these delicious Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars. Most of these items are pantry staples, so you might already have everything you 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 get creative with different flavors or ingredients that suit your taste.

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor.
• Try different fruits: Substitute some apples with pears or berries for a unique twist.
• Switch up the spices: Experiment with different spice blends like cardamom or ginger to create your own flavor profile.
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour in place of regular flour to cater to dietary needs.

How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350℉. This ensures that your bars bake evenly and develop that golden crust we all love. While it warms up, spray a 9×13 pan with nonstick spray and line it with parchment paper. Leave some overhang on the edges so you can easily lift out the bars later—trust me, this little trick makes slicing so much easier!

Step 2: Prep the Apple Filling

In a medium bowl, toss those lovely apple slices with lemon juice and all the filling ingredients until they’re well coated. Gently stir with a silicone spatula; we want to keep those slices intact! Letting them sit will help infuse those wonderful spices into the apples while you prepare the crust.

Step 3: Make the Crust/Topping

In a large bowl, melt your butter. Then stir in all remaining bar ingredients until everything is combined nicely. This mixture will serve double duty as both your crust and topping! The crumbles should be moist but still hold together when pressed.

Step 4: Assemble Your Bars

Now comes the fun part! Reserve about 2 cups of that crust mixture for later. Press the rest into your prepared pan evenly—it’s going to form a delicious base for our apple filling. Spoon those spiced apples over this layer evenly while leaving any excess liquid behind. Finally, sprinkle that reserved crust mixture on top for added texture.

Step 5: Bake Away!

Pop those bars into your preheated oven and bake for about 38 to 45 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the topping turns golden brown and feels firm when you poke it gently with a fork. While they bake, it’s time to whip up that salted caramel sauce!

Step 6: Make the Salted Caramel Sauce

Follow my detailed salted caramel recipe linked here [insert link]. This step-by-step guide will ensure you achieve that creamy goodness without any hiccups.

Step 7: Serve & Store

Once those glorious bars have cooled on a wire rack for about an hour or two, slice them up! Drizzle each piece with salted caramel as desired. These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days—though I doubt they’ll last that long! Any leftover caramel should also be refrigerated in an airtight container.

Step 8: Make-Ahead Tips

Want to get ahead? You can make your caramel sauce up to three days in advance; simply reheat it before using! The bars themselves can also be made one day ahead—just let them cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating.

These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are sure to bring warmth and joy into your home—enjoy every bite!

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 tips, you’ll enhance your baking game even further!

• Choose the Right Apples: Use a mix of sweet and tart apples, like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, for a flavorful filling that balances sweetness and acidity beautifully.
• Don’t Skip the Lemon Juice: Tossing the apple slices in lemon juice not only brightens their flavor but also helps prevent browning, ensuring your filling stays fresh and vibrant.
• Press Firmly: When pressing the crust mixture into the pan, make sure to pack it down firmly. This helps create a sturdy base that holds together well when sliced.
• Let Them Cool Completely: Allowing the bars to cool on a wire rack for at least 1-2 hours ensures that they set properly, making them easier to slice without falling apart.
• Drizzle Generously: Don’t be shy with the salted caramel sauce! A generous drizzle not only adds delicious flavor but also enhances presentation for those Instagram-worthy photos.

How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are not just delicious; they’re also visually appealing! Here are some fun ways to present this comforting dessert.

Garnishes

• Whipped Coconut Cream: A dollop of coconut whipped cream adds a light, airy touch that complements the richness of the bars perfectly.
• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkling some toasted pecans or walnuts on top provides a delightful crunch and enhances the nutty flavors already present in the recipe.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream alongside warm bars creates a classic dessert pairing that many love. The cold ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm pie bars.
• Hot Tea or Coffee: Serve these bars with a steaming cup of tea or coffee. The warmth of the drinks complements the spiced flavors of apples and caramel perfectly.
• Fresh Fruit Salad: For something lighter, offer a refreshing fruit salad on the side. The bright flavors of seasonal fruits will balance out the richness of your dessert nicely.
• Caramel Dipping Sauce: Provide an extra side of salted caramel sauce for dipping to elevate each bite even further—because who doesn’t love more caramel?

Enjoy creating and sharing these delightful Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars with friends and family!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are perfect for meal prep, making them a convenient treat to enjoy throughout the week. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging at home, these bars store wonderfully!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bars to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• If you’ve added caramel on top, it’s best to refrigerate them regardless.

Freezing

• Once cooled, slice the bars and wrap them individually in plastic wrap.
• Place the wrapped bars into a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months—perfect for a future sweet craving!

Reheating

• To enjoy warm bars, microwave them on a microwave-safe plate for 20-30 seconds.
• If you prefer them at room temperature, simply take them out of the fridge and let sit for about 10-15 minutes before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions to help you make the most out of your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars.

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

Absolutely! While tart apples like Granny Smith work wonderfully, feel free to mix in sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for a unique flavor profile.

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

You can follow my detailed salted caramel recipe linked earlier in this post. It’s easy to make and adds that touch of indulgence these bars deserve!

Can I make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars without oats?

Yes! If you prefer a gluten-free option or want to omit oats, substitute with additional flour or almond flour. The texture will differ slightly but will still be delicious!

How long do Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars last in the fridge?

These delightful bars can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Enjoy them chilled or warmed up after reheating!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am about making these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars! They bring together all the cozy flavors of autumn with less effort than traditional pie. Enjoy every delicious bite, whether warm from the oven or chilled from the fridge. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations—I’d love to hear how they turn out!