Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Why Make This Recipe

Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars combine the classic flavors of apple pie with rich and indulgent salted caramel. These bars deliver a deliciously sweet experience, perfect for dessert or a delightful snack. The contrast between the tart apples and the creamy caramel creates a taste sensation that everyone loves.

Making these bars is surprisingly simple and fun, allowing you to create a homemade treat that will impress family and friends. With a buttery crust, tender apple filling, and crunchy streusel topping, they’re sure to become a favorite.

Equipment Needed For Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

To create these lovely apple pie bars, you will need some basic kitchen equipment. Gather the following items:

• 8-inch square baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Medium mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Pastry blender or two forks
• Baking sheet
• Oven mitts

What You Need to Make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

• 1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
• 2 large apples, peeled and thinly sliced (1/4 inch thick)
• 2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 Tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup (43g) old-fashioned whole rolled oats
• 1/3 cup (70g) packed light or dark brown sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup (31g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
• 1/4 cup (4 Tbsp; 56g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• Homemade salted caramel or store-bought caramel sauce

How to Cook Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars Step by Step

Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (149°C). Take the 8-inch square baking pan and line the bottom and sides with parchment paper. Leave enough overhang on all sides so you can lift the bars out later. Set the pan aside while you prepare the crust.

In a medium bowl, stir together the melted butter, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Make sure it is well mixed. Next, add in the flour and stir until everything is combined smoothly. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan. Place it in the oven and bake for about 15 minutes. While the crust is baking, you can prepare the apple filling and streusel topping.

In a large bowl, combine the thinly sliced apples, 2 tablespoons of flour, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Toss the apple slices together gently until all the apples are coated evenly with the mixture. This step adds sweetness and warmth to the apple filling, making it perfect for your pie bars. Once mixed, set it aside for a moment.

For the streusel topping, grab another medium bowl and whisk together the oats, brown sugar, a pinch of cinnamon, and 1/4 cup of flour. Next, cut in the cold cubed butter using a pastry blender or two forks. If you prefer, you can use your fingers to rub the butter into the mixture. You want it to resemble coarse crumbs. Once that is ready, set it aside as well.

Once the crust is out of the oven, turn the heat up to 350°F (177°C). Carefully layer the apple mixture evenly on top of the warm crust. Don’t be afraid if it feels like there are too many apple slices; pack them tightly and press them down as needed to fit. After layering the apples, sprinkle the streusel topping generously over the apples.

Bake the pan in the oven for another 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the streusel is golden brown and the apples are tender. Once baked, remove it from the oven and let the bars cool at room temperature for at least 20 minutes. For the best results, chill the bars in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight if you can resist.

When you’re ready to serve, use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Cut them into 16 smaller pieces or 12 larger bars, depending on your preference. Drizzle the bars with homemade salted caramel sauce or your favorite store-bought variety for an extra touch of indulgence. Enjoy them warm, at room temperature, or even cold for a tasty treat.

How To Make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Start by preparing your ingredients and equipment. Gather everything and read through the recipe beforehand for a seamless cooking experience. The objective is to balance the sweet and tart flavors of the apples while achieving a delightful contrast with the salted caramel.

Follow the specific steps outlined for both the crust and the filling. Pay close attention to the mixing and layering processes to ensure every bite is loaded with flavor. Each layer contributes to the overall experience, making your bars rich and satisfying.

How To Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

These salted caramel apple pie bars are versatile when it comes to serving. They can be plated individually for special occasions, or served family-style on a large platter. A drizzle of salted caramel sauce on top enhances their visual appeal and taste.

Consider pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful dessert combo. Adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dusting of powdered sugar can elevate their presentation, making them almost too good to resist.

What To Serve With Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

When serving these delicious bars, consider complementing them with a warm beverage. A cup of cinnamon-spiced chai or hot apple cider pairs excellently with the flavors of the bars. If you want something more refreshing, a cold glass of sweet iced tea also works wonders.

For a more festive touch, try serving them alongside a simple fruit salad or a slice of your favorite cheese to create a balanced dessert table. The contrasts in taste and temperatures will delight your guests.

How To Store Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Storing your salted caramel apple pie bars is easy. Once they are completely cooled and cut, place them in an airtight container. You can store them at room temperature if you plan to enjoy them in the next few days.

If you want to keep them for a longer period, place them in the refrigerator. Properly stored, they can last for about a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored this way for up to three months.

Tips To Make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

For the best results, choose apples that are firm and slightly tart, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. These varieties hold their shape well during baking and provide a delightful flavor contrast to the sweetness of the caramel.

When mixing the streusel, make sure to work the butter in until it resembles coarse crumbs. This will give your topping a lovely crunch. Additionally, don’t overcrowd the apples when layering; pressing them down gently will help them cook evenly.

If you prefer to make your own caramel sauce, be sure to allow it to cool significantly before drizzling over the bars. This will prevent it from melting into the bars and maintain a beautiful presentation.

Variation

You can easily customize this recipe to suit your tastes or the ingredients you have on hand. Consider adding dried cranberries or raisins to the apple mixture for a sweeter touch. For a fun twist, try using different types of nuts in the streusel topping, such as pecans or walnuts, for added flavor and crunch.

If you are a fan of spices, feel free to add a pinch of ginger or allspice for a new dimension of flavor in your apple filling. The balance of spices can enhance the overall appeal of your bars.

Best Time To Make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

These apple pie bars are great any time of year, but they shine particularly during fall. The flavors of apple and warm spices evoke cozy feelings perfect for autumn gatherings and holidays. They are also an excellent choice for Thanksgiving desserts or holiday parties.

If you want to prepare them ahead of a gathering or potluck, they can be made a day in advance. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

A frequent mistake in making these bars is overbaking the crust. Keep an eye on it during baking and remove it as soon as it turns golden. If the crust is too hard, the bars won’t have the desired texture.

Another common error is not allowing adequate cooling time after baking. Chilling the bars is crucial for cutting neat, uniform pieces. Patience is key to achieving that perfect bite.

Lastly, be careful not to skimp on the apple slices. While it might seem like too much at first, they cook down nicely and ensure every bar is loaded with that juicy apple flavor.

Nutritional Notes

While indulgent, these bars provide some nutritional benefits, particularly thanks to the apples. Apples are a good source of fiber and vitamin C. The oats in the streusel topping add a bit of whole grains, making these bars more satisfying.

However, keep in mind that they are still a dessert and should be enjoyed in moderation. Balancing them with fresh fruit or healthy snacks can contribute to a well-rounded diet.

FAQs

Can I use sugar substitutes?
While it is possible to use sugar alternatives for the recipe, keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary. Make sure to choose a substitute that works well in baking.

What type of apples should I use?
Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Fuji are all excellent choices. They provide the right mix of sweetness and firmness for baking.

Can I freeze these bars?
Yes! These bars can be frozen for up to three months. The best approach is to wrap them well in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag. Just remember to thaw them before serving.

Conclusion

Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars offer a delightful twist on a classic dessert, combining warm apple filling, a buttery crust, and rich salted caramel. With a straightforward recipe, you can create these tasty treats at home. They’re perfect for gatherings, casual get-togethers, or simply as a sweet treat to brighten your day.

Enjoy sharing these delightful bars with friends and family, or savor them all by yourself. Either way, they bring a warmth and sweetness that is hard to resist.