Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars Recipe

As the seasons change and the air turns crisp, there's no better way to welcome fall than with the perfect dessert: Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars. This mouthwatering treat combines the classic flavors of caramel, apples, and a buttery crust, giving you all the deliciousness of apple pie without the hassle of a traditional pie crust. Whether you're hosting a family gathering, attending a potluck, or simply indulging in a cozy night in, these bars will have everyone coming back for seconds. Keep reading to discover the magic behind this recipe and how to make it yourself.

this Recipe

What are Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars?

Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are a twist on the beloved apple pie. Instead of a full pie, these bars are layered with a buttery shortbread crust, a juicy cinnamon-spiced apple filling, and a rich, gooey salted caramel topping. The blend of sweet and salty flavors with the tender texture of the apples and the crunch of the crust make it a dessert that’s impossible to resist. These bars are perfect for fall and holiday gatherings and provide a simple yet delightful alternative to more time-consuming desserts.

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Ingredients List for Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Before you begin, make sure you have all the ingredients on hand. Here’s what you’ll need to create the layers of flavor in these delightful bars:

For the Shortbread Crust:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Apple Filling:

• 3 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best), peeled and thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, to prevent browning)

For the Salted Caramel Sauce:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon sea salt

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Substitutions and Variations

Every baker likes to add their own personal touch to a recipe, and Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are no exception. Here are a few substitutions and variations you can try to make this recipe your own:

• Gluten-Free Option: Swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it’s a 1:1 ratio blend to ensure the texture stays consistent.
• Dairy-Free Version: Substitute the butter with a vegan butter alternative and use coconut cream in place of the heavy cream for the salted caramel sauce.
• Apple Variety: While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples are ideal due to their tart flavor and firmness, you can use other varieties like Fuji or Braeburn. Just be mindful that some apples might be sweeter and less firm when baked.
• Additional Spices: Feel free to experiment with extra spices like ground ginger or cardamom for a warmer flavor profile. A touch of vanilla extract in the apple filling can also add depth.
• Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the apple filling or sprinkle them over the caramel layer before baking for added texture and flavor.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you’ve got all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the actual preparation. Follow these simple steps to create the perfect Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars:

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or foil. Leave some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the flour and salt to the mixture and continue mixing until the dough starts to come together. It should be crumbly but hold together when pressed.
4. Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan, creating an even layer. Use your hands or the bottom of a flat measuring cup to press it down firmly.
5. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling

1. While the crust is baking, peel, core, and thinly slice the apples. Place the apple slices in a large bowl and toss with the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, flour, nutmeg, and lemon juice if using.
2. Once the crust is out of the oven and slightly cooled, spread the apple mixture evenly over the shortbread crust.

Step 3: Make the Salted Caramel Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the granulated sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula. The sugar will begin to clump, then melt into a deep amber color.
2. Once the sugar is fully melted, add the cubed butter and stir until the butter is fully incorporated. Be careful, as the mixture will bubble up when the butter is added.
3. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, continuing to stir. The caramel will bubble up again, but keep stirring until it smooths out into a rich, creamy consistency.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the sea salt. Let the caramel cool slightly before pouring it over the apple layer.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

1. After the apple layer is spread over the crust, drizzle the salted caramel sauce evenly over the apples.
2. Bake the bars in the oven for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the caramel is bubbling slightly.
3. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely before cutting. For easier slicing, refrigerate the bars for at least 1 hour.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

While this recipe is fairly straightforward, there are a few pitfalls to watch out for to ensure your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars turn out perfectly:

• Overbaking the Crust: The shortbread crust should be lightly golden when you remove it from the oven. Overbaking it at this stage can result in a too-hard crust that becomes difficult to cut or chew.
• Undercooking the Caramel: The caramel should reach a deep amber color and smooth texture. If you don’t cook the sugar long enough, it may taste too sweet and lack depth of flavor.
• Not Letting the Bars Cool Completely: Cutting into the bars too early can cause them to fall apart. Make sure they are fully cooled and ideally chilled for a clean cut.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation matters when serving these delectable bars! Here’s how to make them look just as good as they taste.

How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

• Warm or Cold: These bars are delicious both warm and cold. If serving warm, you can reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds and pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• With Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream or store-bought whipped topping adds an extra layer of indulgence.
• With Extra Caramel Drizzle: For caramel lovers, drizzle a little extra salted caramel sauce over the top before serving.

Presentation Ideas for Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

• Dust with Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a beautiful contrast to the caramel and gives the bars a professional, bakery-style finish.
• Serve on Decorative Plates: Serve the bars on a rustic wooden tray or autumn-themed plates for a cozy fall vibe.
• Cut into Uniform Squares: Use a sharp knife to cut the bars into even squares or rectangles for a clean, polished look.

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Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the bars a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Double the Recipe: These bars tend to disappear fast! If you're feeding a crowd, consider doubling the recipe and baking in two pans.
• Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months—just thaw them in the fridge before serving.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of making my own?

Yes, if you’re short on time, you can use a good-quality store-bought caramel sauce. However, making your own salted caramel adds an extra layer of flavor and richness.

What’s the best apple variety for this recipe?

Granny Smith apples are ideal because of their tart flavor and firm texture, but you can also use Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Braeburn apples.

Can I freeze these bars?

Yes, these bars freeze well! Just make sure to cool them completely, then wrap them tightly and store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.

How do I store the bars after baking?

Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay fresh for about 5 days and taste even better the next day.

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Conclusion

Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are the perfect blend of sweet, salty, and spiced fall flavors. With a buttery shortbread crust, juicy cinnamon apples, and decadent salted caramel sauce, they offer all the comfort of traditional apple pie in an easy-to-make, portable form. Whether you're making these for a special occasion or just to satisfy a seasonal craving, these bars are sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this irresistible dessert!

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