Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars Recipe

These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are a delicious and decadent treat that combines the classic flavors of apple pie with a touch of salty caramel. A buttery shortbread crust is layered with tender apples, a crunchy streusel topping, and a drizzle of homemade or store-bought salted caramel sauce. These bars are perfect for fall gatherings, holiday celebrations, or any occasion where you want a sweet and satisfying dessert.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars:

For the Shortbread Crust:

• Unsalted butter: Melted, adds richness and a tender texture.
• Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a crisp crust.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and adds a touch of savory flavor.
• All-purpose flour: The main dry ingredient, provides structure.

For the Apple Filling:

• Apples: Peeled and thinly sliced, use a mix of tart and sweet apples for a balanced flavor.
• All-purpose flour: Helps thicken the filling.
• Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness.
• Ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and a classic spice flavor.
• Ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle warm and nutty flavor.

For the Streusel:

• Old-fashioned whole rolled oats: Adds a hearty and chewy texture to the streusel.
• Brown sugar: Packed, adds sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor.
• Ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice to the streusel.
• All-purpose flour: Helps bind the streusel ingredients together.
• Unsalted butter: Cold and cubed, creates a crumbly texture.

For Serving:

• Homemade salted caramel or store-bought caramel sauce: Adds a sweet and salty finishing touch.

How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat the oven to 300°F (149°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on all sides for easy removal.

In a medium bowl, stir together the melted butter, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Add the flour and stir until well combined. Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove from the oven.

Step 2: Make the Apple Filling

While the crust is baking, combine the sliced apples, flour, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a large bowl. Toss until all the apple slices are evenly coated.

Step 3: Make the Streusel

In another bowl, whisk together the oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and flour. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or two forks until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Turn the oven up to 350°F (177°C). Layer the apple filling evenly over the warm crust, pressing down to fit. Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the apples. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the streusel is golden brown.

Step 5: Cool, Chill, and Serve

Remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool for at least 20 minutes at room temperature. Then, chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight.

Once chilled, lift the bars from the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into 12 or 16 bars and drizzle each with salted caramel sauce before serving.

How to Serve

• Dessert: These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are a delicious and satisfying dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
• Party Treats: Cut them into smaller squares and serve them as party snacks or treats for a gathering.
• Lunchbox Surprise: Pack them in lunchboxes for a sweet and satisfying treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Freeze the bars for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pie crust?

Yes, you can use a store-bought pie crust if you’re short on time.

Can I make these bars without the caramel sauce?

Yes, you can omit the caramel sauce or drizzle the bars with a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and milk or lemon juice.

Can I use a different type of fruit?

Yes, you can experiment with other fruits like berries or peaches, but you may need to adjust the baking time accordingly.

How can I make these bars gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1-to-1 baking flour blend.

Print