1. Can I make these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars gluten-free?

Yes, you can make the crust and streusel gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to double-check all the other ingredients, such as the oats and caramel, to ensure they meet your dietary needs.

2. How do I store leftover Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars?

Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you have extra, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw them in the fridge before serving and adding the caramel drizzle.

3. Can I use store-bought caramel sauce for these bars?

While homemade salted caramel adds a rich, personalized touch, you can absolutely use store-bought caramel sauce. If using pre-made caramel, be sure to choose one with a good flavor balance to complement the sweetness of the apple filling.

4. What apples are best for Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars?

For the best flavor and texture, use a combination of sweet and tart apples. Some great sweet options are Honeycrisp, Pink Lady, or Gala, while tart varieties like Granny Smith or Braeburn offer the perfect balance to the sweetness of the caramel.

Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars – Easy & Delicious Recipe

Name: Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 3 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup (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 (56g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed; Homemade salted caramel or store-bought caramel sauce

Description

Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars offer a delicious twist on the classic apple pie, with a buttery shortbread crust, spiced apple filling, a crumbly streusel topping, and a rich salted caramel drizzle. These bars are easy to make and perfect for any fall gathering, providing the ideal balance of sweet, salty, and spiced flavors in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2 cup (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 (56g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
Homemade salted caramel or store-bought caramel sauce

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 300°F (149°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Make the shortbread crust: Stir the melted butter, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt together 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.
Make the apple filling: In a large bowl, combine thinly sliced apples, flour, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Toss to coat the apples evenly. Set aside.
Make 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. Set aside.
Increase the oven temperature to 350°F (177°C). Evenly layer the apples on top of the warm crust. Press the apples down to fit. Top with the streusel mixture.
Bake for 30-35 minutes until the streusel is golden brown and the apples are tender.
Remove from the oven and let cool for at least 20 minutes at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Once chilled, drizzle the bars with salted caramel and cut them into bars.

Notes

Chill the bars after baking for the best results, as they firm up and are easier to cut.
Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for more depth of flavor.
If you prefer a firmer crust, press it down tightly before baking.
The salted caramel topping can be made ahead of time or store-bought for convenience.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 250
Sugar: 25g
Sodium: 90mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 30mg