Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars – Easy & Delicious Recipe

Apple pie is a quintessential dessert that brings comfort and joy with every bite. But what if you could enjoy all the delicious flavors of apple pie in a more convenient, easy-to-make form? Enter Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars. With a buttery shortbread crust, spiced apple filling, streusel topping, and a rich salted caramel drizzle, these bars are the ultimate fall treat. They’re not only simple to make, but they also bring the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and spiced flavors that will make your taste buds dance. Here’s everything you need to know to create this mouthwatering dessert.

Why Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars Are So Special

Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars combine all the delicious elements of a traditional apple pie but are so much easier to make. Unlike pie, which requires a flaky crust and intricate steps, these bars come together quickly, making them perfect for when you’re short on time but still craving that apple pie taste. With the addition of homemade salted caramel, these bars offer a sweet and salty experience that’s irresistible.

Ingredients for Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

To make these indulgent Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Shortbread Crust:

• Unsalted Butter: Provides a rich, buttery base.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the crust.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds depth of flavor.
• Salt: Balances sweetness.
• All-Purpose Flour: Forms the structure of the crust.

For the Apple Filling:

• Apples (two types recommended): One sweet (like Honeycrisp) and one tart (like Granny Smith) for balanced flavor.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the apples.
• Ground Cinnamon: Adds warm spice.
• Ground Nutmeg: Enhances the spice profile.
• All-Purpose Flour: Thickens the filling.

For the Streusel Topping:

• Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: Adds texture and chew.
• Brown Sugar: Gives a deeper sweetness.
• Ground Cinnamon: Complements the apples.
• All-Purpose Flour: Helps bind the streusel.
• Unsalted Butter: Creates the crumbly texture.

For the Salted Caramel:

• Homemade or store-bought salted caramel: This drizzled topping is the star of the show, bringing a sweet-salty balance to the bars.

Ingredient Alternatives

If you’re looking for substitutions, here are a few options:

• Flour: You can swap all-purpose flour for gluten-free flour to make the recipe gluten-free.
• Butter: For a dairy-free version, use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute.
• Oats: If you prefer not to use oats, consider replacing them with chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for a crunchier streusel topping.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 300°F (149°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal later.
2. Prepare the Shortbread Crust: Stir together melted butter, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt in a medium bowl. Add the flour and mix until combined. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 15 minutes.
3. Make the Apple Filling: In a large bowl, combine thinly sliced apples, flour, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Toss to coat the apples evenly.
4. Prepare the Streusel Topping: In a separate bowl, whisk together oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and flour. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture forms coarse crumbs.
5. Assemble the Bars: Once the crust is baked, layer the apple filling evenly on top, pressing the apples down to fit. Top with the streusel mixture.
6. Bake the Bars: Increase the oven temperature to 350°F (177°C). Bake for 30-35 minutes until the streusel is golden brown and the apples are tender.
7. Cool and Chill: Let the bars cool for at least 20 minutes at room temperature. Then, refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow them to firm up.
8. Add the Salted Caramel: Drizzle generously with homemade or store-bought salted caramel before cutting into bars.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

• Don’t Skip Chilling: Chilling the bars after baking is essential to ensure they set properly and cut into neat bars.
• Use Fresh Apples: Fresh, firm apples are best for the filling. Opt for a mix of tart and sweet varieties to balance the flavor.
• Check for Doneness: The streusel should be golden brown, and the apple filling should be bubbling when the bars are done.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them even further with some great pairing options:

• Ice Cream: Vanilla or cinnamon ice cream makes an excellent companion to these bars.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream complements the sweet-salty flavors.
• Nuts: Add a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch.

For a fun twist, try making these bars with different fruit fillings like pears or mixed berries. The salted caramel topping will still be a perfect match!

Seasonal and Health Benefits of Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

These bars are perfect for the fall season when apples are at their best. They offer a cozy, comforting dessert that’s perfect for gatherings, family get-togethers, or just enjoying a sweet treat with your favorite hot beverage.

While delicious, these bars are a bit indulgent, so enjoy them in moderation. You can make the recipe ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freeze for later enjoyment.

Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars provide a delightful twist on a classic dessert and are sure to impress your family and friends. Whether for a special occasion or just a cozy weekend treat, they bring all the flavors of apple pie with the added richness of salted caramel, making them a must-try recipe!

Conclusion: Why You’ll Love Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars offer a comforting twist on a classic dessert with a shortbread crust, spiced apple filling, crunchy streusel topping, and, of course, a generous drizzle of homemade salted caramel. These bars are not only easy to make but also a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Whether you’re craving a fall-inspired treat or need a simple dessert for a special occasion, this recipe is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

With its perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors, Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars elevate the traditional apple pie and are bound to become a new favorite in your dessert repertoire. Don’t forget to experiment with different apples and even make it ahead of time for a quick and delightful dessert when you need it most. Get ready to indulge in one of the most irresistible treats you’ll ever bake!

FAQ for Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

More Relevant Recipes

• Easy Apple Crisp Bars: These bars are a perfect follow-up to Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars. Made with sweet apples and a crunchy oat topping, they are a simpler version of a traditional apple crisp, ideal for those looking for a comforting dessert with a similar flavor profile.
• Apple Pie Snickerdoodles: If you love the combination of apples and spices, these Apple Pie Snickerdoodles are a must-try. With the same cinnamon-sugar goodness, these soft and chewy cookies take the flavor of apple pie to a whole new level with a twist of snickerdoodle charm.
• Salted Caramel Truffles: For those who can’t get enough of salted caramel, these decadent truffles make the perfect treat. The rich caramel center, combined with a sprinkle of sea salt, makes for a delightfu

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