If you crave the cozy comfort of classic apple pie but want something easier to share (and eat with your hands!), these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars will totally wow you. Imagine a buttery shortbread base, cinnamon-spiced apples, a crumbly golden streusel, and a final flourish of gooey salted caramel — every bite is packed with all the best flavors of fall desserts! Whether you’re prepping them for a festive gathering, after-school treat, or just because, these bars are destined to become a superstar in your baking rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are refreshingly basic, but each one shines to create something truly special. Don’t skimp on quality here: fresh apples, creamy butter, and real vanilla make all the difference in taste and texture.
- Unsalted Butter (1 cup, melted): This forms the rich, tender base for the shortbread crust and gives the streusel topping its classic melt-in-your-mouth crumb.
- Granulated Sugar (1/2 cup + 2 tablespoons): Adds sweetness to both the crust and the apple filling without overpowering the natural flavors.
- Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons): Don’t skip it! Vanilla deepens and enhances both the crust and overall aroma.
- All-Purpose Flour (2 cups for crust, 2 tablespoons for apples, 1/4 cup for streusel): Provides structure in each layer; measuring accurately ensures your bars hold together but aren’t dense.
- Apples (3 large, peeled, cored, and diced): Choose crisp varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the right balance of tart and sweet.
- Ground Cinnamon (1 teaspoon): The quintessential spice for apple desserts, it infuses warmth throughout.
- Ground Nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): A pinch is all you need to give the apples an autumnal, aromatic kick.
- Old-Fashioned Oats (1/2 cup): These add robust texture and chew to the buttery streusel.
- Brown Sugar (1/3 cup, packed): Brings molasses-y depth and moisture to the crumb topping.
- Unsalted Butter (1/4 cup, cold and cubed): Essential for that classic, chunky crumble.
- Salted Caramel Sauce (1/2 cup): Whether homemade or store-bought, this is the magical finishing touch that takes the bars from good to absolutely irresistible.
How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars
Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Preheat the Oven
Start by lining a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. This is more than just a neat-freak habit; it ensures your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars lift out effortlessly later. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) to get the shortbread base started at a gentle temperature.
Step 2: Make the Shortbread Crust
In a large bowl, mix together the melted butter, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and flour. Stir until a soft dough forms; it should look a bit crumbly but will press together in the pan. Firmly and evenly press this dough into the bottom of your prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with your hands or the back of a measuring cup. Bake for 15 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly — this creates the perfect (and sturdy!) foundation for your apple filling.
Step 3: Prepare the Apple Filling
While the crust bakes, toss your peeled and diced apples with flour, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Make sure every piece is coated; the flour helps soak up some of the juices so your bars slice neatly. Pour this apple mixture over the warm crust, spreading it out in an even layer.
Step 4: Make and Sprinkle the Streusel
To assemble the crumbly streusel, combine old-fashioned oats, brown sugar, and flour in a medium bowl. Add the cold, cubed butter, and use your fingers, a fork, or a pastry cutter to mix until you have clumps ranging from pea-sized to slightly larger. Scatter the streusel generously over the apples, making sure every bit gets a little buttery crunch.
Step 5: Bake the Bars
Increase your oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake the bars for 30 to 35 minutes. The magic happens as the apples soften, the streusel turns golden, and the whole kitchen starts to smell like pie heaven. The bars are ready when the topping is crisp and lightly browned.
Step 6: Cool and Finish with Salted Caramel
Let the bars cool completely in the pan (this part requires some patience — it helps them set!). Once cooled, drizzle generously with salted caramel sauce, then use the parchment to lift out and slice into neat bars. Your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are now ready to steal the spotlight!
How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars
Garnishes
Take your bars over the top with a final scatter of flaky sea salt, a few extra drizzles of caramel, or a dusting of powdered sugar. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on top turns each bar into a stunning plated dessert, while a dollop of fresh whipped cream makes them feel extra festive.
Side Dishes
Balance the sweet richness of these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars with a hot mug of coffee or apple cider. For something savory, serve them alongside a spread of sharp cheeses and nuts to create a memorable fall dessert platter.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the bars smaller for bite-sized party treats, or use mini tart pans if you want individualized desserts. Wrap slices in parchment and tie with twine for rustic gifts; they’re a perfect bake sale or picnic addition. You can even layer cubes of the bars in a trifle with more caramel and whipped cream for a dessert that looks as exciting as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you don’t polish them off by then, pop them in the fridge where they’ll stay moist and tasty for up to five days.
Freezing
To freeze, let the bars cool completely and skip the caramel drizzle until after thawing. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. When the craving strikes, just thaw at room temperature and finish with a fresh drizzle of caramel.
Reheating
If you prefer your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars a little warm, reheat single bars in the microwave for about 15 seconds or in a low oven for a few minutes. Add your caramel just before serving for that irresistibly gooey finish.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of apple?
Absolutely. While tart varieties like Granny Smith or firm Honeycrisp offer the best texture and a balanced sweet-tart flavor, you can use any apple you love or a mix for even more depth.
Is it possible to make these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend and use gluten-free oats in the streusel. The result is just as delicious — perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
Can I make my own salted caramel sauce?
Definitely! Homemade salted caramel is surprisingly simple and lets you control the saltiness. But if you’re short on time, a quality store-bought version makes these bars come together even faster.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
Check that the streusel topping is turning golden and crisp, and that the apples are fork-tender but not mushy. The aroma of bubbling baked apples is also a pretty good cue!
Can I make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars in advance?
Yes, they’re perfect for making ahead! Prepare the full batch a day or two before, then top with caramel just before serving or after the bars have cooled and been sliced.
Final Thoughts
Sharing these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars is one of life’s simple joys. With layers of buttery, fruity, and salty-sweet flavor, they’re guaranteed to impress anyone lucky enough to snag a piece. Don’t wait for a special occasion — bake a batch soon and taste just how incredible homemade bars can be!
Print
Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars capture all the cozy comfort of classic apple pie in a simple, hand-held treat. With a buttery shortbread base, warmly-spiced apples, a crumbly oat streusel topping, and a generous drizzle of rich salted caramel, these easy-to-serve bars are perfect for fall gatherings, holidays, or whenever you crave a decadent dessert.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
For the Apple Filling:
- 3 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
For the Streusel Topping:
- 1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
- 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
For Finishing:
- 1/2 cup salted caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan & Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving enough overhang to lift the bars out easily after baking.
- Make the Shortbread Crust: In a medium bowl, mix the melted butter, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and all-purpose flour together until a soft dough forms. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan, ensuring an even layer. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove from the oven and let cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
- Prepare the Apple Layer: In another bowl, toss the diced apples with all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg until the apples are evenly coated. Spread this apple mixture evenly over the baked crust.
- Make the Streusel Topping: In a small bowl, combine the old-fashioned oats, brown sugar, and all-purpose flour. Using a fork or pastry cutter, cut in the cold, cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Evenly sprinkle the streusel topping over the apples.
- Bake the Bars: Increase the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). Bake the assembled bars for 30–35 minutes, or until the streusel is golden brown and the apples are tender.
- Cool and Finish: Remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cool, drizzle generously with salted caramel sauce, then lift out using the parchment and slice into 16 bars before serving.
Notes
- Use a mix of tart and sweet apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, for balanced flavor.
- Bars cut best when completely cooled; for neatest edges, chill in the fridge before slicing.
- Homemade salted caramel sauce adds a special touch, but high-quality store-bought also works well.
- Bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 110mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 35mg