Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are a delightful twist on the classic apple pie that brings comforting flavors to your dessert table. These luscious bars blend sweet, tart apples with rich caramel and a buttery crumb topping, making them perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or simply a cozy night at home. With layers of flavor and texture, these bars are sure to impress your friends and family.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Servings: 12 bars
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 250
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
Why Make This Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars
There are so many reasons to fall in love with Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars! They are easy to make and give you all the classic flavors of a traditional apple pie in a fun, handheld form. The buttery crust pairs perfectly with the sweet apple filling and the salty-sweet caramel drizzled on top adds that extra layer of indulgence. Plus, they look stunning on your dessert table, creating an inviting and tempting treat for everyone.
How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 4-5 medium apples, peeled and sliced
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 cup caramel sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent the bars from sticking.
Step 2: Mixing the Crust
In a large bowl, mix together the flour and salt. Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a fork or pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 3: Combining Sweetness
Stir in the granulated sugar and brown sugar until well combined. Transfer half of this mixture into the prepared baking dish, pressing it down firmly to form the crust.
Step 4: Layering the Apples
In another bowl, mix the sliced apples with cinnamon and nutmeg until they are well coated. Spread the seasoned apples evenly over the crust in the baking dish.
Step 5: Adding Caramel
Drizzle the caramel sauce generously over the apple layer. Then, sprinkle the remaining crust mixture evenly on top of the caramel and apples.
Step 6: Baking
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the apples are tender.
Step 7: Cooling and Finishing
Once baked, allow the bars to cool in the pan. After cooling, cut into squares or bars. Drizzle with additional caramel sauce and sprinkle with sea salt before serving for an added touch of flavor and presentation.
How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars
Serve these bars warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for an extra treat. They also pair beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added texture. Perfect for fall gatherings or holiday celebrations, these bars will surely be a hit!
How to Store Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars
Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil, for up to 3 months. Simply thaw them in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
Expert Tips for Perfect Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars
- For the best flavor, use a mix of sweet and tart apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp.
- Make sure your butter is cold when cutting it into the flour for a flaky crust.
- Drizzle warm caramel on top just before serving for that gooey, indulgent texture.
- Feel free to experiment with spices; adding a pinch of ginger or allspice can give your bars a unique flavor.
Delicious Variations
- Nutty Twist: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the apple mixture for a delightful crunch.
- Vegan Option: Substitute the butter with coconut oil and use a plant-based caramel sauce for a dairy-free version.
- Berry Addition: For a berry twist, mix in 1 cup of fresh blueberries or raspberries with the apples.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use different types of apples?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix your favorite varieties to achieve a balance of sweetness and tartness. -
How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?
Make sure to press the crust firmly and try not to over-mix the butter into the flour. Using fresh, non-watery apples helps, too! -
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes! These bars can be made a day in advance. Just keep them covered and refrigerate, then allow to come to room temperature before serving. -
What can I substitute for caramel sauce?
If you want to make your own, you can use homemade caramel sauce, or substitute it with a thick chocolate sauce for a different flavor profile. -
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
Look for a golden brown top and ensure the apples are tender when poked with a fork.
Conclusion
Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are a scrumptious and satisfying dessert that brings together all the beloved flavors of fall in a convenient bar form. Perfect for cozy gatherings or a simple family dessert, these bars are sure to delight everyone around the table. Give this recipe a try, and savor each delicious bite! Enjoy baking, and happy tasting!
