Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

If you’re looking for a dessert that captures the essence of autumn in every bite, then these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are calling your name! I can hardly contain my excitement when I share this recipe—it brings all the warm flavors of classic apple pie without the fuss of a traditional crust. Imagine layers of tender, spiced apples nestled between a buttery brown sugar oat crumble that doubles as both crust and topping. And let’s not forget the final touch: a drizzle of rich salted caramel sauce that takes these bars to another level!

These bars are perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a busy weeknight treat or a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings. Trust me, they are sure to become a favorite in your home just like they have in mine!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Simple Preparation: With just a few easy steps, you can whip up these delicious bars without breaking a sweat.
• Family-Friendly Treat: The delightful combination of sweet apples and caramel makes these bars irresistible for kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the caramel or even the bars themselves ahead of time, making your life easier when it’s time to serve.
• Deliciously Versatile: These bars are great warm, at room temperature, or chilled—perfect for any preference!
• Perfect for Fall: The aromatic spices and sweet apples capture all the cozy vibes of fall in one delightful treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this recipe, you’ll need simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have on hand! Let’s gather everything you need to make these delightful Salted Caramel Apple Pie 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 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to mix things up based on your taste preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add Some Nuts: Toss in chopped pecans or walnuts for an extra crunch that complements the soft apples beautifully.
• Switch Up the Spices: Experiment with different spices like ginger or cardamom for a unique flavor twist.
• Try Different Fruits: Substitute half of the apples with pears or even berries for a delightful change.
• Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and oats to make these bars suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350℉. While it warms up, spray a 9×13 pan with nonstick spray and line it with parchment paper. This will help you lift those delicious bars out easily once they’re baked!

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling

In a medium bowl, toss together your apple slices with all the apple filling ingredients. Gently stir with a silicone spatula to keep those lovely slices intact. It’s important to mix well so every slice is coated in those scrumptious spices!

Step 3: Make the Crust/Topping

In a large bowl, melt your butter. Once melted, stir in the remaining bar ingredients until everything is combined. This mixture will form both your crust base and sprinkle topping—so good!

Step 4: Assemble Your Bars

Reserve about 2 cups of the crust mixture for later use on top. Press the remaining mixture into your prepared pan evenly. Next, give those spiced apples another gentle stir before spooning them over the base layer. Don’t forget—leave any excess liquid behind! Finish by sprinkling the reserved crust mixture over those beautiful apples.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Pop your pan in the oven and bake for about 38 to 45 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the topping turns golden brown and those sweet apples feel tender when pierced with a fork. While they bake, it’s time to whip up that luscious caramel sauce!

Step 6: Make Your Salted Caramel Sauce

Follow my salted caramel recipe here to create that dreamy sauce! It’s easier than you think; just pay close attention to get that perfect texture.

Step 7: Serve & Store Your Delicious Bars

Once cooled on a wire rack for about 1-2 hours, slice into bars as desired and drizzle with salted caramel just before serving. To keep them fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in your fridge for up to four days.

Step 8: Make-Ahead Tips

You can prepare your caramel up to three days ahead—just reheat it slightly in the microwave before drizzling over your bars! The bars themselves can also be made up to one day ahead; they’re delicious warm or cold!

Enjoy every bite of these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars—they’re sure to bring smiles around your table!

Pro Tips for Making Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Making these delicious bars can be a breeze with just a few handy tips! Follow these suggestions to ensure your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars turn out perfectly every time.

• Choose the right apples: Opt for a mix of sweet and tart apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. This combination enhances the flavor of your filling, balancing sweetness with a refreshing tartness.

• Don’t skip the lemon juice: Adding lemon juice to your apple mixture helps prevent browning and adds a bright acidity that complements the sweetness of the caramel.

• Monitor baking time carefully: Every oven is different, so start checking your bars at the 38-minute mark. You want them golden on top and tender in the middle, but not overbaked.

• Let them cool completely: Allowing your bars to cool on a wire rack for at least 1-2 hours will help them set properly, making slicing easier and ensuring they hold their shape.

• Prepare extra caramel: Making more salted caramel than you think you’ll need allows you to drizzle generously over each serving. Plus, it’s fantastic on ice cream or drizzled over other desserts!

How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are not only scrumptious but also versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some ideas to elevate your dessert experience!

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A dollop of light whipped cream on top adds an airy contrast to the rich flavors of the bars.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the caramel.
• Cinnamon dust: A light dusting of ground cinnamon on top provides an aromatic touch that enhances the overall taste.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The classic pairing of warm apple pie with cold vanilla ice cream is always a hit—its creamy texture balances the warmth of the bars beautifully.
• Caramel sauce: Serve with extra salted caramel sauce on the side for those who want an indulgent drizzle with each bite.
• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits balances out the richness of the bars and adds a pop of color to your dessert plate.
• Coffee or tea: Offer a cup of freshly brewed coffee or herbal tea alongside for a delightful way to wind down after enjoying these decadent treats.

With these serving suggestions, you’ll create an inviting dessert experience that will make everyone feel special. Enjoy making these delightful Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are perfect for meal prep! Not only do they store well, but they also taste fantastic even after a few days. This makes them an excellent option for busy weeks or gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature.
• Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy within 3-4 days for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

• Slice the bars into individual portions before freezing.
• Wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store wrapped bars in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Remove bars from the refrigerator or freezer.
• If frozen, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• For quick reheating, microwave individual bars for 20-30 seconds until warm.
• Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

If you have questions about these delicious Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries:

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

Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples are a classic choice due to their tartness, feel free to mix and match with sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for added flavor complexity.

How do I make sure my Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars don’t turn out soggy?

To prevent sogginess, make sure to toss your apple slices with flour to absorb excess moisture. Also, avoid adding too much liquid from the apple mixture on top of your crust layer.

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

Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup. Ensure that your oats are certified gluten-free as well.

What can I serve with Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars?

These bars pair wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, drizzled with extra salted caramel sauce. You could also enjoy them with a hot cup of tea or coffee!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars! They bring together the comforting flavors of fall while being easy enough to create any day of the week. Whether you’re sharing them at a gathering or savoring them as an after-dinner treat, I believe they’ll become a cherished recipe in your collection. Happy baking!