Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

If you’re looking for a dessert that combines the comforting flavors of fall with a bit of indulgence, you’ve come to the right place! These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are such a delightful twist on classic apple pie. They strike the perfect balance between sweet and salty, with spiced apples nestled between a buttery oat crumble that doubles as a crust and topping. Whether it’s for a cozy family gathering or a busy weeknight treat, these bars are sure to impress!

What makes this recipe even more special is how easy it is to whip up. You’ll be able to enjoy all the flavors of traditional apple pie without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, they make for great leftovers—if they last that long!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have these bars baking in no time.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves the combination of sweet apples and rich caramel, making it perfect for kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the caramel ahead of time or even bake the bars the day before your event.
• Deliciously versatile: Enjoy them warm out of the oven, at room temperature, or even cold straight from the fridge.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars use simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need to create this delicious dessert!

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

One of the best things about these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars is how flexible they are! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts add an extra crunch and richness.
• Mix in other fruits: Try adding pears or cranberries for a different flavor profile.
• Use different spices: Experiment with ginger or cardamom for a unique twist.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute gluten-free flour for all-purpose flour to cater to dietary needs.

How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350℉. While it’s warming up, spray a 9×13 pan with nonstick spray and line it with parchment paper. Leaving some overhang will help you lift out those delicious bars later on!

Step 2: Prep the Apple Filling

In a medium bowl, toss together your sliced apples with all the apple filling ingredients. Use a gentle hand with your silicone spatula—this will keep those lovely apple slices intact. Set this mixture aside while we move on to creating our crust.

Step 3: Make the Crust/Topping

Melt your salted butter in a large bowl. Stir in all remaining bar ingredients until everything is well-combined. This mixture will serve both as our crust and topping, so make sure it’s nice and crumbly!

Step 4: Assemble Your Bars

Now it’s time to put everything together! Reserve about 2 cups of crust mixture for topping later. Press down the rest into your prepared pan evenly. Give your apple filling another stir before spooning it over this base layer—just be sure to leave any excess liquid behind in the bowl. Finally, sprinkle that reserved crust mixture over the top.

Step 5: Bake It Up!

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 when you can easily pierce through with a fork into those tender apples below.

Step 6: Make Your Salted Caramel Sauce

While your bars are baking away, why not whip up some homemade salted caramel? Follow my detailed recipe linked here for step-by-step instructions; trust me—it’s worth it!

Step 7: Serve & Store

Once baked, let those beautiful bars cool on a wire rack for about 1-2 hours before slicing them up. When you’re ready to indulge, drizzle on that luscious salted caramel sauce as desired! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days—or just enjoy them warm right away!

Step 8: Make-Ahead Tips

Want to get ahead of schedule? The salted caramel can be made up to three days ahead—simply refrigerate until ready to use! Just microwave it briefly before drizzling over your bars. And yes, these treats are absolutely delicious whether served warm, at room temperature, or cold!

Get ready for smiles all around when you share these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars with friends and family!

Pro Tips for Making Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Baking is all about having fun and experimenting, so here are some tips to ensure your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars turn out perfectly every time!

• Use a Variety of Apples: Mixing sweet and tart apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp enhances the flavor profile of your bars. This combination creates a delicious balance that will keep everyone coming back for more.

• Don’t Skip the Salted Caramel: The salted caramel sauce adds a rich layer of flavor that brings everything together. It complements the sweetness of the apples while providing a delightful contrast, making each bite unforgettable.

• Let Them Cool Before Slicing: Patience is key! Allowing the bars to cool for at least 1-2 hours helps them set properly, resulting in cleaner slices that hold their shape when you serve them.

• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices in your apple filling to suit your taste. Adding a bit of ginger or clove can give your bars a unique twist that delights your palate.

• Make Them Ahead: Preparing these bars a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Plus, they make for an easy dessert option for gatherings, saving you time on the day of your event!

How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Serving your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars can be just as enjoyable as making them! Here are some creative ideas to elevate your presentation and experience.

Garnishes

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream on top adds a light and fluffy element that perfectly contrasts with the rich flavors of the bars.
• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkling toasted pecans or walnuts on top provides a lovely crunch and enhances the overall texture.
• Cinnamon Dusting: A light dusting of cinnamon over the top before serving can add an aromatic touch and enhance the cozy fall vibe.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing! The creamy ice cream melts into the warm bars, creating an indulgent dessert experience.
• Caramel Sauce Dip: Serve alongside extra salted caramel sauce for drizzling or dipping—perfect for those who want an extra sweet kick!
• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad featuring apples, pears, and citrus adds a bright contrast that balances out the richness of the bars.
• Coffee or Tea: Pairing these bars with a warm cup of coffee or spiced chai tea makes for a comforting treat that’s ideal for gatherings or cozy nights at home.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to create an amazing dessert experience with your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious dessert whenever the craving strikes! You can easily store them or even make them ahead of time for gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the bars in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
• If you’ve drizzled caramel on top, it’s recommended to refrigerate them regardless.
• Keep any extra salted caramel sauce in an airtight container or jar in the fridge as well.

Freezing

• Allow the bars to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Be sure to label them with the date!

Reheating

• To enjoy warm bars, simply microwave one for about 20-30 seconds.
• For a more evenly warmed treat, place the bars in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making these delicious Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars!

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

Absolutely! You can mix and match different apple varieties such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji. Each type will bring its own unique flavor and texture!

How do I ensure my Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars turn out perfectly?

Make sure to slice your apples evenly and toss them properly with the filling ingredients. This ensures they cook uniformly and blend well with the crust. Also, don’t skip letting the bars cool before slicing; this helps them hold together better!

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure that your oats are certified gluten-free.

How should I serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars?

Serve these bars warm with an extra drizzle of salted caramel on top. A scoop of dairy-free ice cream can elevate this dessert even further!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars! They capture all the comforting flavors of traditional apple pie while being easy to prepare and share. Whether you’re enjoying them at home or bringing them to a gathering, they’re sure to impress. Happy baking, and don’t forget to savor every delicious bite!