Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Apple Pie Bars are a delightful way to enjoy the classic flavors of apple pie with minimal effort. These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars combine a buttery oat crumble crust with tender spiced apples, all topped off with a rich salted caramel drizzle. Perfect for autumn gatherings, this recipe is both comforting and delicious, making it an ideal treat for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With a simple crumble topping that doubles as a crust, these bars require less time than traditional pies.
• Flavorful Layers: The combination of spiced apples and salted caramel creates a mouthwatering contrast that will leave everyone wanting more.
• Versatile Dessert: Great for potlucks, family gatherings, or cozy nights in—these bars fit any setting.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the caramel and bars in advance for stress-free serving.
• Perfectly Sweet: The balance of sweet apples and salted caramel makes for an irresistible dessert.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your kitchen essentials to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Silicone spatula
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13-inch baking pan: Provides ample space for even baking and easy slicing of your bars.
• Parchment paper: Allows for easy removal of the bars without sticking to the pan.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly and keeping your workspace organized.
• Silicone spatula: Perfect for gently mixing delicate ingredients like sliced apples without damaging them.

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℉. Spray a 9×13 pan with nonstick spray and line it with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the ends for easy removal later.

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling

In a medium bowl:
1. Toss together the sliced apples with lemon juice, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, ground cloves, and salt.
2. Stir gently with a silicone spatula to ensure even coating without breaking up the apple slices.

Step 3: Make the Crust/Topping

In a large bowl:
1. Melt the salted butter.
2. Stir in the remaining ingredients until well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Bars

1. Reserve about 2 cups (330 grams) of crust mixture for topping.
2. Press the remaining mixture into your prepared pan firmly.
3. Spoon the apple filling evenly over this base layer while leaving excess liquid behind in the bowl.
4. Sprinkle the reserved crust mixture on top.

Step 5: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 38 to 45 minutes, or until:
– The topping is golden brown.
– Apples feel tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 6: Make the Salted Caramel Sauce

While bars are baking:
– Follow your favorite salted caramel sauce recipe to create a rich topping.

Step 7: Serve & Store

When ready to serve:
– Slice into bars and drizzle generously with salted caramel.
– Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Step 8: Make-Ahead Tips

• You can prepare caramel up to three days ahead; just reheat briefly before use.
• The bars can also be made one day ahead; simply cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating.

With these steps complete, you’re ready to enjoy delicious Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars! Perfectly spiced and sweetened, they’re sure to please any crowd.

How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet night at home, consider these serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

A La Mode

• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of each bar. The creaminess perfectly balances the rich flavors of the caramel and spiced apples.

With Whipped Cream

• Serve with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for an airy texture that complements the dense bars.

Drizzled with Extra Caramel

• For those who crave more sweetness, drizzle additional salted caramel sauce over each bar just before serving.

Pairing with Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these bars alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea. The flavors meld beautifully, enhancing the overall experience.

Chilled for Refreshment

• Serve chilled from the fridge for a refreshing treat, especially on warm days.

How to Perfect Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

To ensure your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Fresh Apples: Opt for firm, crisp apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best flavor and texture.
• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure precise amounts, especially for flour and sugar.
• Don’t Overmix: Gently combine ingredients when making the crust and topping to maintain a crumbly texture.
• Test Apples for Tenderness: Before removing from the oven, check that the apple filling is tender by piercing it with a fork.
• Cool Completely Before Slicing: Allow bars to cool thoroughly on a wire rack; this helps them set and makes slicing easier.
• Store Properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Pair your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars with these delicious side dishes to create an unforgettable dessert spread.

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet bars.
2. Cheese Platter: Include creamy cheeses like Brie or tangy goat cheese to balance flavors.
3. Pumpkin Soup: A warm bowl of pumpkin soup adds comfort and seasonal flair to your dessert table.
4. Vanilla Pudding: A small serving of smooth vanilla pudding complements the pie bars nicely.
5. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness alongside the rich dessert.
6. Chai Spiced Nuts: Roasted nuts seasoned with chai spices offer crunch and warmth as a savory counterpoint.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars even better!

• Not Prepping Apples Properly: Failing to slice apples evenly can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure slices are between 1/8 and 1/4 thick for the best results.
• Overmixing the Crust: Mixing too much can make the crust tough. Combine ingredients just until they are mixed for a tender texture.
• Skipping the Cooling Time: Cutting bars before they cool may cause them to crumble. Allow them to cool on a wire rack for at least 1-2 hours.
• Ignoring the Salted Caramel Sauce: Underestimating the importance of caramel can dull the flavor. Drizzle generously over each bar for that extra touch of sweetness.
• Not Storing Properly: Storing bars in a non-airtight container can lead to drying out. Always keep them in an airtight container in the fridge.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store bars in an airtight container.
• They will last for 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm bars for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat each bar for 20-30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid, and heat for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars.

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

Yes! You can mix various apple types such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji for added flavor and texture.

How do I make my own salted caramel sauce?

You can prepare salted caramel by melting sugar until it turns golden brown, adding butter, cream, and a pinch of salt. Follow detailed steps if needed!

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute regular flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour while keeping other ingredients consistent.

How long do Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars last?

These delicious bars last up to 4 days when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are a delightful twist on classic apple pie that combines ease with incredible flavor. The oat crumble adds texture while the spiced apples provide warmth. Feel free to customize this recipe with different nuts or spices to suit your taste preferences. Try making these bars today—they’re sure to impress everyone!