Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Name: Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 16.0
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp vanilla extract; 3 cups peeled and sliced apples; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 tsp cinnamon; 1/4 tsp nutmeg; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tbsp cornstarch; 1 cup caramel sauce; 1/4 tsp sea salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Experience the delightful fusion of sweet and salty with these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars. Layered with a buttery crust, spiced apple filling, and a rich salted caramel drizzle, these bars are the perfect dessert for your holiday gatherings. Easy to share and bursting with flavor, they are sure to become a festive favorite among your family and friends.

Created by

Tom

Last updated on 2025-10-23T04:17:55.034Z

These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are not just delicious; they are a symphony of flavors and textures. The buttery crust provides a perfect foundation, while the spiced apple filling evokes the warm tastes of fall. Topped with a generous drizzle of salted caramel, these bars are an enticing combination of sweet and salt. Perfect for any festive gathering, they are easy to slice and serve, making them a hit among guests.

The Perfect Holiday Treat

Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are more than just a dessert; they are an experience that brings comfort and joy to every holiday gathering. The combination of sweet caramel and tart apples creates a symphony of flavors that is sure to impress your guests. Whether you're hosting a Thanksgiving feast or a cozy family Christmas, these bars offer a delightful twist on the classic apple pie everyone loves.

These bars are particularly appealing because they can be made ahead of time, leaving you free to enjoy the festivities. The easy-to-slice format makes them perfect for sharing, and their beautiful presentation adds a touch of elegance to your dessert table. Your friends and family will appreciate how simple yet indulgent they are, making them a must-have on your holiday menu.

Versatility of Flavors

One of the best aspects of Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars is their adaptability. While the recipe calls for traditional spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, feel free to experiment with flavors that suit your taste. Consider adding a hint of ginger for a warm kick or swapping in different fruits, such as pears, for a unique twist. This versatility allows you to make these bars your own and cater to various palates.

These bars are also perfect for different occasions. You can transform them for summer picnics by serving them chilled, or add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a decadent winter dessert. No matter how you choose to serve them, they will always be a crowd-pleaser.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

After you have made your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars, you might wonder about the best way to store them. To keep them fresh, simply place the bars in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They are best enjoyed within five days, but in reality, they may disappear much sooner, given their irresistible flavor!

When it comes to serving, consider pairing these delicious bars with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream. A sprinkle of chopped nuts on top adds a delightful crunch and enhances the salted caramel flavor. For a visually appealing presentation, drizzle additional caramel sauce on the plate when serving. Your guests will be raving about this delightful treat long after the last slice has been enjoyed.

Ingredients

For the crust

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp vanilla extract

For the filling

3 cups peeled and sliced apples
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp nutmeg
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp cornstarch

For the caramel

1 cup caramel sauce
1/4 tsp sea salt

Make sure to gather all ingredients before starting.

Instructions

Prepare the crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine flour, butter, sugar, and salt. Mix until crumbly. Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased baking dish.

Make the apple filling

In another bowl, mix sliced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Spread the filling over the crust in the baking dish.

Bake the bars

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the apples are tender and the crust is lightly golden.

Add the caramel

Once out of the oven, drizzle the salted caramel sauce over the bars. Let them cool completely before slicing into squares.

Enjoy your delicious Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars!

Tips for Success

To ensure that your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars turn out perfectly, start with high-quality ingredients. Fresh apples will provide the best flavor, while unsalted butter contributes to the overall texture of the crust. Thoroughly mix your filling so that every bite is bursting with flavor. Additionally, don't skip the resting time after baking; letting the bars cool completely will help them set properly, making slicing easier.

Consider using a high-quality caramel sauce for the topping, as this will elevate the overall taste of the bars. If you have the time, homemade caramel sauce can make a world of difference in flavor and texture.

Nutritional Information

While indulging in Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars is a treat, it's also important to be mindful of the nutritional content. Each bar contains a mix of wholesome ingredients, including fiber-rich apples and rich butter. However, due to the sugar content from the caramel and the added sugars, it's best to enjoy these bars in moderation.

If you're looking to lighten the recipe, consider using a sugar substitute, or reduce the amount of caramel sauce without sacrificing too much flavor. Remember, the goal is to satisfy your sweet tooth while still enjoying the scrumptious goodness that these bars bring.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of apple?

Yes, feel free to use your favorite apples suitable for baking.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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