Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

There’s something undeniably cozy about baking with apples, especially as the seasons shift and the air turns crisp. Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars capture that essence wonderfully, merging the sweet, warm flavors of apple pie with the perfect touch of rich, buttery caramel. Imagine biting into a soft, crusty top, the gooey apple filling peeking through, and a drizzle of luscious salted caramel cascading down. Every bite is a celebration of autumn in your mouth.

These delightful bars are more than just a treat; they are an experience. The comforting aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake will spark warmth and fond memories. Picture yourself savoring a piece with a cup of tea or sharing them with loved ones on a cozy weekend afternoon. So, gather your ingredients, and let’s bring some warmth into your home this weekend. Pin this recipe for later!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make with simple ingredients
• Perfect for cozy weekends or brunch with family
• Wholesome flavor that feels like home
• Great for sharing or enjoying throughout the week
• A unique twist on a classic dessert

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 5 medium apples, sliced between 1/8" and 1/4" thick (744 grams sliced) – Choose a mix of tart and sweet varieties for depth of flavor.
• 1 tbsp lemon juice – Keeps apples from browning and adds brightness.
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour (21 grams) – Helps thicken the apple filling.
• 1/3 cup light brown sugar, packed (73 grams) – Enhances the caramel notes in the apples.
• 1 tbsp cinnamon (7 grams) – Warms up the flavor profile.
• 3/8 tsp nutmeg – Provides a cozy, aromatic element.
• 1/4 tsp allspice – Adds complexity and warmth.
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves – A pinch brings balance to the sweet and spicy.
• Pinch of salt – Enhances all the flavors.
• 1 and 1/2 cups salted butter, melted (340 grams, or 24 tbsp) – The foundation of the crust and topping.
• 3 cups all-purpose flour, spooned & leveled (390 grams) – Gives structure to the bars.
• 2 cups old-fashioned whole rolled oats (195 grams) – Adds texture and heartiness.
• 1 and 1/2 cups light brown sugar, packed (330 grams) – Sweetens the crust while adding depth.
• 1 and 1/2 tsp baking soda – Helps the bars rise slightly.
• 1 tsp cinnamon – Corresponds with the apples’ flavor.
• 1/2 tsp salt – Balances the sweetness of the bars.
• 1 cup granulated sugar (210 grams) – Adds to the crust’s sweetness.
• 6 tbsp salted butter, cubed (85 grams) – For richness in the crust.
• 1/2 cup + 1 tbsp heavy cream (135 grams) – Essential for the luscious caramel.
• Pinch of fine sea salt – To finish that salted caramel flavor.

Step-by-Step Directions

Prep

1. Preheat your oven to 350℉. Spray a 9×13-inch pan with nonstick spray and line with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the ends for easy lifting later.

Prep the Apple Filling

2. In a medium bowl, toss together the sliced apples with lemon juice, flour, light brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, ground cloves, and salt. Stir gently with a silicone spatula to avoid breaking the apple slices. Ensure everything is well mixed and set aside.

Make the Crust/Topping

3. In a large bowl, melt the salted butter. Stir in the all-purpose flour, oats, light brown sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt to form the crust/topping mixture.

Assemble

4. Reserve about 2 cups (approximately 330 grams) of the crust mixture for topping the bars. Firmly press the remaining crust mixture into the prepared pan to form an even base. Give the apple filling a final stir, then layer it evenly over the base, leaving any excess liquid behind in the bowl. Sprinkle the reserved crust mixture over the top.

Bake

5. Bake the bars for 38 to 45 minutes. The topping should be golden brown, and when you pierce through the topping and into the apple layer with a fork, the apples should feel tender. While the bars are baking, make the salted caramel sauce.

6. Allow the bars to cool on a wire rack in your kitchen for about 1-2 hours before slicing.

Make the Salted Caramel Sauce

7. Prepare the salted caramel sauce according to your favorite recipe. It’s a simple task that transforms your bars into something extraordinary and elevates them to dessert perfection.

Serve & Store

8. Once ready to serve, slice the bars and drizzle with salted caramel as desired. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days, regardless of whether they have caramel on top. Any extra caramel should also be stored in an airtight container or jar in the fridge for other delightful uses.

Make-Ahead Tips

• The caramel can be made up to 3 days ahead and kept refrigerated until needed. You can microwave it for 20-40 seconds to loosen it before drizzling over your delicious bars.
• The bars can be made a day in advance. Just let them cool at room temperature, then refrigerate until ready to enjoy. They are absolutely delightful warm, at room temperature, or chilled!

Pro Tips for Success

• Measure flour accurately for the best texture; use a kitchen scale if possible.
• Allow baked goods to cool thoroughly before glazing them with caramel to prevent it from running off.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh and delicious.

Variations and Creative Twists

• Add a handful of chocolate chips for a rich, decadent touch.
• Include a swirl of cinnamon in the batter for extra flavor.
• Experiment with adding nuts or dried fruits for additional texture.

How to Store or Freeze

To keep your salted caramel apple pie bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. For long-term storage, you can freeze individual slices. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm gently in the oven.

Serving Ideas

These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are versatile and perfect for many occasions:

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
• Pack them in lunchboxes for a sweet afternoon treat.
• Enjoy them at Sunday brunch alongside coffee or tea as a delightful companion.

For More Recipe Inspiration

If you’re looking for more delicious recipes to try, check out these options:

• Protein Muffins
• Mini Bento Cake Recipe
• Banana Cottage Cheese Pancakes

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Enjoy the delightful taste and warmth that Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars bring into your home this season. I can’t wait for you to try them!