Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars bring together the comforting flavors of classic apple pie with a decadent salted caramel twist, all packed into easy-to-handle bars. These delightful treats are perfect for sharing at gatherings, celebrations, or simply enjoying with a cozy cup of tea. The sweet aroma of baked apples mingling with the rich scent of caramel creates a warm and inviting atmosphere in your kitchen that everyone will love.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Servings: 12 bars
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 250
• Protein: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 41g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 24g
• Sodium: 150mg

Why Make This Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are an ideal choice for anyone who loves the classic taste of apple pie but wants something easier to serve and enjoy. The combination of sweet apples and rich salted caramel creates a perfect balance of flavors while the buttery crust adds just the right amount of crunch. These bars are sure to impress your family and friends, making them a wonderful addition to any dessert table.

How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Creating these delicious bars is simple and can be done in a few easy steps. Let’s walk through the process of preparing, mixing, and baking these delightful treats!

Ingredients:

• 1 pie crust
• 4 cups apples, peeled and sliced
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 cup salted caramel sauce
• 1 tablespoon butter

Directions:

• Step 1: Preparation

  Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to ensure easy removal of the bars after baking.

• Step 2: Mixing

  In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, brown sugar, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and lemon juice. Mix until the apples are well-coated and the ingredients are evenly distributed; the sweetness of the sugars will enhance the natural flavors of the apples.

• Step 3: Layering

  Roll out the pie crust and carefully place it in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Pour the apple mixture over the pie crust and spread it evenly, ensuring every corner is filled with those juicy apple slices.

• Step 4: Drizzling and Dotting

  Drizzle the salted caramel sauce generously over the apples. Be sure to cover as much of the apple layer as possible for that rich flavor. Then, dot the mixture with small pieces of butter to add to the creaminess as it bakes.

• Step 5: Baking

  Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the crust is lightly golden. The enticing smell of caramel and baking apples will fill your kitchen!

• Step 6: Cooling

  Allow the bars to cool in the dish for at least 30 minutes. This cooling time will help them set, making it easier to slice them into perfect bars.

How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Serve these delectable bars warm or at room temperature. They are delightful on their own, but consider adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top for an extra treat. They also pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making them perfect for afternoon snacks or dessert at family gatherings.

How to Store Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. To enjoy later, simply warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.

Expert Tips for Perfect Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

• Choose firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and flavor in your bars.
• If preferred, you can substitute half of the granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a deeper, caramel-like flavor.
• For added complexity, try mixing in a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts to the apple mixture.
• Ensure the caramel sauce is a good quality for the richest flavor.

Delicious Variations

• Nutty Crunch Bars: Add chopped nuts of your choice for extra texture and flavor.
• Berry Apple Combo: Mix in a cup of fresh blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist that adds brightness.
• S’mores Style: Spread a layer of mini marshmallows on top before baking for a gooey twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use store-bought caramel sauce? Yes, store-bought caramel sauce works just fine and saves time!
• What can I use if I don’t have a pie crust? You can make a simple oat crumble topping or use a graham cracker crust instead.
• Can I freeze these bars? Yes, these bars freeze well! Wrap them tightly and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months.
• What can I substitute for the flour? You can use almond flour or gluten-free flour blends for gluten-free options.
• How do I know when the bars are done baking? The bars are done when the apples are tender and the edges of the crust are golden brown.

Conclusion

Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars combine the best elements of traditional apple pie with a fun, modern twist. The combination of tart apples, sweet caramel, and a buttery crust makes every bite a delightful experience. Whether you’re serving them at a cozy get-together or simply enjoying them at home, these bars are sure to be a hit. Get your ingredients ready, and savor the joy of baking these treats!