Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Apple Pie Bars are a delightful twist on the classic dessert. They capture all the delicious flavors of traditional apple pie but are much easier to make. With a brown sugar oat crumble for both the crust and topping, these bars feature a generous layer of spiced apples in between. Perfect for fall gatherings or cozy family dinners, Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are sure to impress anyone who takes a bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: These bars require much less effort than making a full pie, yet deliver the same satisfying flavors.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of spiced apples and salted caramel creates an irresistible taste experience.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them warm, at room temperature, or chilled from the fridge—perfect for any occasion!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the caramel in advance or even the bars themselves for quick serving later.
• Family-Friendly Dessert: This recipe is easy enough for kids to help with and guarantees smiles all around.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delicious Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars, you’ll need some essential tools and equipment.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Nonstick spray
• Parchment paper
• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Medium mixing bowl
• Large mixing bowl
• Silicone spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Nonstick Spray: Prevents the bars from sticking to the pan, ensuring easy removal.
• Parchment Paper: Helps lift the finished bars out of the pan without breaking them.
• Mixing Bowls: Allows for easy mixing of ingredients without spills.
• Silicone Spatula: Great for gently folding ingredients without damaging delicate apple slices.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

To make these delightful Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars, gather the following ingredients:

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

How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350℉. Prepare your 9×13 inch baking pan by spraying it with nonstick spray. Then line it with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later.

Step 2: Prep the Apple Filling

In a medium bowl, toss together the sliced apples with lemon juice and all other apple filling ingredients. Use a silicone spatula to combine gently, ensuring you don’t break up those delicious apple slices. Set this mixture aside.

Step 3: Make the Crust/Topping

Melt your salted butter in a large bowl. Stir in all remaining bar ingredients until well combined to form a crumbly mixture.

Step 4: Assemble

Reserve about 2 cups (around 330 grams) of your crust mixture for topping later. Press the rest into your prepared pan evenly. Give your apple filling another good stir before spooning it over this layer—leave any excess liquid behind in the bowl. Finally, sprinkle your reserved crust mixture on top.

Step 5: Bake

Bake your bars in the preheated oven for about 38 to 45 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the topping is golden brown and tender when pierced with a fork. While they bake, prepare your salted caramel sauce.

Step 6: Make the Salted Caramel Sauce

Follow my detailed salted caramel recipe here to create your sauce! It includes step-by-step directions along with helpful photos.

Step 7: Serve & Store

Once ready to serve, slice your bars into portions and drizzle with salted caramel as desired. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days; this helps keep them fresh!

Step 8: Make-Ahead Tips

You can make your caramel up to three days ahead and store it in the fridge until you need it. If needed, microwave briefly before serving to loosen it up again. The bars can also be made one day ahead—just let them cool at room temperature before refrigerating until ready to serve!

How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Serving Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars can elevate your dessert experience. These bars are versatile and pair wonderfully with various accompaniments to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Ice Cream

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy texture complements the warm spices of the pie bars.
• Cinnamon ice cream: Adds an extra layer of flavor that enhances the apple filling.

Whipped Cream

• Fresh whipped cream: A light and airy topping that balances the richness of the caramel.
• Flavored whipped cream: Consider adding a hint of vanilla or cinnamon for a delightful twist.

Fresh Fruit

• Sliced apples: Fresh apple slices provide a crisp contrast to the soft bars.
• Berries: Raspberries or blueberries add a tartness that pairs well with sweetness.

Nuts

• Chopped pecans: Their buttery flavor enhances the overall taste.
• Toasted almonds: Add crunch and a nutty aroma that complements the caramel.

How to Perfect Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Perfecting your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars can make all the difference in taste and presentation. Here are some tips for achieving dessert perfection.

• Choose ripe apples: Select apples that are firm and slightly tart, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, for optimal flavor.
• Don’t overmix: When preparing the filling, gently stir to keep apple slices intact and avoid mushiness.
• Use parchment paper: Line your baking pan with parchment paper for easier removal and clean-up after baking.
• Adjust baking time: Keep an eye on the bars while baking; they should be golden brown but not overbaked.
• Cool completely: Allow the bars to cool on a wire rack before slicing to maintain their shape.
• Make extra caramel: Having additional salted caramel sauce on hand allows for drizzling at serving time, enhancing flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Pairing side dishes with your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars can create a delightful dining experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Cheese platter: A selection of sharp cheddar or creamy brie balances sweetness perfectly.
2. Caramel dip: Serve alongside fresh fruit for an interactive dessert experience.
3. Chocolate sauce: Drizzle over bars or serve as a dip for added indulgence.
4. Coffee or tea: A warm beverage creates a cozy atmosphere and complements the flavors beautifully.
5. Granola topping: Sprinkling granola adds an enjoyable crunch and nutty flavor contrast.
6. Fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits can lighten up the dessert table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Bold Ingredient Selection: Using unripe or overly soft apples can ruin the texture of your bars. Always choose apples that are firm and slightly tart for the best flavor.
• Bold Improper Measurement: Not measuring flour accurately can lead to a crust that’s too dry or too wet. Use the spoon-and-level method or weigh your flour for precision.
• Bold Overmixing: Mixing the crust ingredients too much can create a tough texture. Mix just until combined for a tender crust.
• Bold Skipping Cooling Time: Cutting into the bars too soon can cause them to crumble. Allow them to cool completely before slicing for clean edges.
• Bold Forgetting Salted Caramel Sauce: Skipping the caramel drizzle will miss out on adding that delicious finishing touch. Don’t forget this essential step!

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Keep bars refrigerated whether they have caramel on top or not.

Freezing Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

• Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Reheating Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place bars on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual bars for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars.

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

Yes, you can use any variety of apples you enjoy! A mix of tart and sweet apples works well for balanced flavor.

How do I make my own salted caramel sauce?

You can find many recipes online, but generally, you’ll need sugar, butter, cream, and a pinch of salt. Cook until golden brown and drizzle over your pie bars.

How long do Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars last?

Stored correctly in the refrigerator, they will last up to 3-4 days. If frozen, they can be kept for about 2 months.

Can I add nuts or other toppings?

Certainly! Chopped pecans or walnuts add great texture. Feel free to get creative with toppings that suit your taste.

Are these pie bars suitable for gatherings?

Absolutely! They are perfect for parties or family gatherings because they’re easy to slice and serve while offering delicious flavors everyone loves.

Final Thoughts

Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars combine comforting apple flavors with a delectable salted caramel drizzle, making them an irresistible dessert option. They are versatile enough to customize with different spices or toppings based on your preferences. Try these bars this fall or anytime you’re craving something sweet!