Baking a delicious batch of Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars is a delightful way to enjoy the classic flavors of apple pie in a more manageable form. These bars are perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or simply as a sweet treat at home. With layers of tender apples, a crumbly streusel topping, and drizzled caramel sauce, they make a show-stopping dessert that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: The straightforward steps make this recipe accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
- Flavorful Layers: Enjoy the perfect balance of sweet apples, warm spices, and rich caramel.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve them warm, at room temperature, or chilled—perfect for any occasion!
- Great for Sharing: Cut them into smaller bars for easy sharing at parties or gatherings.
- Make Ahead Friendly: These bars can be prepared ahead of time and stored, making them ideal for busy schedules.
Tools and Preparation
To create these delightful Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures that your baking process goes smoothly and your final product is perfect.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 8-inch square baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Pastry blender (or two forks)
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- 8-inch square baking pan: This size is perfect for creating thick and chewy bars that hold their shape well.
- Parchment paper: Lining your pan with parchment makes it easy to lift out the baked bars without sticking.
- Mixing bowls: Having multiple mixing bowls allows you to prepare different components simultaneously.
- Pastry blender: This tool helps achieve the right crumb texture in the streusel topping quickly.
Ingredients
Baking apple pie as bars is so much easier!
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 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 (4 Tbsp; 56g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
– homemade salted caramel or store-bought caramel sauce
How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 300°F (149°C). Line the bottom and sides of an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper leaving enough overhang on all sides. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
Stir the melted butter, granulated sugar, vanilla, and salt together in a medium bowl.
* Add the flour and stir until everything is combined.
* Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan.
* Bake for 15 minutes and then remove from the oven.
Step 3: Make the Apple Filling
Combine the sliced apples, flour, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg together in a large bowl until all of the apples are evenly coated. Set aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Streusel Topping
Whisk the oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and flour together in a medium bowl.
* Cut in the chilled butter with a pastry blender or two forks until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
* Set aside.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Turn the oven up to 350°F (177°C). Evenly layer the apples on top of the warm crust.
* Press them down tightly to fit.
* Sprinkle with streusel topping and bake for 30–35 minutes or until golden brown.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Remove from the oven and allow to cool for at least 20 minutes at room temperature.
* Chill in the refrigerator for at least two hours (or overnight).
* Lift out using parchment overhang and cut into bars.
Drizzle each bar with salted caramel sauce before serving. Enjoy warm or cold!
How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars
These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet night, these bars can elevate any occasion.
For a Cozy Night In
- Warm with Ice Cream: Serve the bars warm and add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a delicious contrast.
- With Whipped Cream: Top them with light whipped cream to enhance the flavors and add a creamy texture.
At a Party
- Cut into Bite-Sized Pieces: Slice the bars into smaller squares for easy sharing among guests at your next gathering.
- Drizzle Extra Sauce: Offer additional salted caramel sauce on the side for guests to drizzle over their portions.
For Special Occasions
- Garnished with Nuts: Sprinkle some chopped nuts on top for added crunch and flavor, making it festive.
- On a Dessert Platter: Arrange the bars alongside other desserts like brownies or cookies for an impressive dessert spread.
How to Perfect Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars
Creating the perfect Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time.
- Use Fresh Apples: Choose firm, crisp apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t Overmix the Crust: Mix until just combined to keep the crust flaky and tender.
- Layer Apples Tightly: Press the apple slices down firmly to ensure even cooking and avoid gaps in your filling.
- Chill Before Serving: Allowing the bars to chill in the refrigerator helps them set properly, making cutting easier.
Best Side Dishes for Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars
Pairing side dishes with your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that complements the caramel flavors beautifully.
- Caramel Sauce Dip: Serve extra caramel sauce on the side for those who want an indulgent touch.
- Coffee or Tea: A warm beverage balances the sweetness of the bars nicely, making it perfect for any time of day.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can provide a light contrast to the richness of the bars.
- Cheese Plate: Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda for an interesting flavor profile alongside sweet treats.
- Chocolate Covered Pretzels: The salty crunch of pretzels pairs well with sweet flavors, offering variety in textures.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.
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Skipping the parchment paper: Not lining your baking pan can lead to a messy removal. Always line the pan with parchment paper for easy lifting and cleanup.
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Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can result in tough bars. Combine ingredients just until they are incorporated for a tender crust.
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Not using cold butter: Failing to use cold butter in the streusel can make it too soft. Cut in chilled butter for that perfect crumbly texture.
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Ignoring cooling time: Cutting the bars before they cool properly can cause them to fall apart. Allow them to cool at room temperature and then chill for best results.
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Using overly ripe apples: Overripe apples can become mushy during baking. Choose firm apples for a better texture in your bars.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
- Make sure they are completely cooled before storing.
Freezing Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars
- Wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Label and date the container for easy tracking.
Reheating Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars
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Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Place bars on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
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Microwave: Heat individual bars on a microwave-safe plate for about 15-20 seconds. Check frequently to avoid overheating.
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Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid. Warm gently for about 5 minutes, flipping occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of apples are best for Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars?
Firm varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work well. They hold their shape during baking and offer great flavor balance.
Can I use gluten-free flour for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Just make sure it’s a one-to-one replacement for best results.
How do I make homemade salted caramel sauce?
To make salted caramel sauce, melt sugar over medium heat until golden brown, then slowly add heavy cream and salt while stirring constantly.
Can I customize these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars?
Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts, raisins, or even different spices like ginger or cardamom to suit your taste preferences.
Final Thoughts
These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. With options to customize the flavors and ingredients, you can make them truly your own. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress family and friends alike!
Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars, a perfect twist on the classic apple pie. These bars feature tender, spiced apples layered within a buttery crust and topped with a crumbly streusel, all drizzled with rich salted caramel. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, these bars are sure to impress friends and family alike. Easy to prepare and versatile for serving, they can be enjoyed warm or chilled. With just the right balance of sweetness and spice, these dessert bars make for an irresistible treat any time of year.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large apples, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 Tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/3 cup packed light or dark brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- homemade salted caramel or store-bought caramel sauce
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (149°C) and line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, combine melted butter, granulated sugar, vanilla, and salt. Add flour and mix until combined; press into the prepared pan. Bake for 15 minutes.
- In a large bowl, coat sliced apples with flour, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- For the streusel topping, mix oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and flour in a medium bowl. Cut in cold butter until crumbly.
- Increase oven temperature to 350°F (177°C). Layer apples over the crust and sprinkle with streusel topping. Bake for 30–35 minutes until golden.
- Allow to cool at room temperature for 20 minutes; chill for at least two hours before cutting into bars.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (60g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg