The aroma wafting from my kitchen reminded me of crisp autumn days, when apples are freshly picked and the promise of warm desserts fills the air. Today, I’m thrilled to share my beloved recipe for Salted Caramel Apple Bars, a delightful treat that effortlessly merges the comforting flavors of fall with a touch of indulgence. Not only are these bars a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone reaching for seconds, but they also come together in just over an hour, perfect for those evenings when time is tight. With a buttery crust, tender apples, and a luscious drizzle of salted caramel, each bite is a warm hug you won't forget. Ready to take your baking game to the next level? Let’s dive into the cozy world of Salted Caramel Apple Bars!
Why are Salted Caramel Apple Bars irresistible?
Unforgettable flavor: The combination of sweet apples, buttery crust, and rich salted caramel creates a mouthwatering experience that's hard to resist.
Cozy comfort: These bars evoke the warmth of autumn, making them the perfect treat for chilly evenings spent at home.
Easy preparation: With just over an hour of total time, you can whip up these delicious treats even on a busy day.
Perfect for sharing: Slice them up and bring them to gatherings or enjoy them with your loved ones for a delightful dessert that everyone will adore.
If you love caramel flavors, be sure to check out my Caramel Brownie Cheesecake for another indulgent treat!
Salted Caramel Apple Bars Ingredients
For the Crust
- All-purpose flour – a vital base for creating a tender and crumbly crust.
- Old-fashioned oats – adds a delightful chewiness and rustic texture.
- Brown sugar – provides a warm, molasses-like sweetness that complements the crust.
- Granulated sugar – balances the flavors with a touch of sweetness.
- Baking soda – helps the crust rise, creating a light and airy texture.
- Salt – enhances all the sweet flavors beautifully.
- Unsalted butter – ensures the perfect richness in the crust; just melt it for ease!
- Vanilla extract – a splash brings extra warmth and depth to the flavor.
For the Filling
- Apples – choose tender varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a juicy bite.
- Lemon juice – brightens the apples and prevents browning.
- Cinnamon – adds a cozy warmth that pairs perfectly with the apples.
- Nutmeg – a pinch infuses the filling with an inviting autumn spice.
- Salted caramel sauce – brings that luscious, sweet-salty flavor; store-bought or homemade both work wonders!
For Garnishing
- Sea salt – a sprinkle on top elevates the flavor; it’s the secret to the salted caramel finish!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Salted Caramel Apple Bars
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is warming up, grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to ensure your Salted Caramel Apple Bars don’t stick after baking.
Step 2: Mix the Crust Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of old-fashioned oats, ¾ cup of brown sugar, ½ cup of granulated sugar, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Pour in 1 cup of melted unsalted butter and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing everything together until you achieve a crumbly consistency.
Step 3: Bake the Base
Press about two-thirds of the mixture firmly into the bottom of your greased baking dish. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden and fragrant, setting the stage for your Salted Caramel Apple Bars.
Step 4: Prepare the Apple Filling
While the crust is baking, take 4 medium-sized peeled, cored, and diced apples and toss them in a bowl with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg. Mix until the apples are evenly coated, allowing their delicious flavors to blend while the crust bakes.
Step 5: Layer the Apples and Caramel
Once your crust is golden, remove it from the oven and evenly layer the apple mixture on top. Drizzle ½ cup of salted caramel sauce generously over the apples, allowing it to soak into the warm filling, creating a rich flavor in your Salted Caramel Apple Bars.
Step 6: Add the Crumble Topping
Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture evenly over the apple and caramel layers. This topping will provide a delightful crunch to contrast with the tender apples and creamy caramel.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden
Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 30-35 minutes. You'll know your Salted Caramel Apple Bars are ready when the top is golden brown and the apples are tender, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
Step 8: Cool and Garnish
Once finished, remove the dish from the oven and let the bars cool in the pan for at least 15-20 minutes. Before slicing, sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt to enhance the salted caramel flavor, making each bite of your delicious Salted Caramel Apple Bars unforgettable.
Salted Caramel Apple Bars Variations
Feel free to get creative and make these bars truly yours with delightful twists and substitutions!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a tasty alternative. Your flavor won't skip a beat!
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Nutty Touch: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the crumble topping for a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor. This little addition takes the texture to the next level.
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Higher Spice Level: Boost the flavor profile by increasing the cinnamon to 2 teaspoons or adding a pinch of allspice for a warm kick. Your taste buds will thank you for the aromatic lift!
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Maple Sweetener: Swap out the granulated sugar for pure maple syrup in the crust to give it a beautiful caramelized flavor and moistness. It feels like cozy mornings with pancakes and syrup all over again!
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Caramel Sauce Variety: If you're feeling adventurous, experiment with different flavored sauces, like a rich chocolate or bourbon caramel sauce. It’s a fun way to surprise your palate!
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Fruit Fusion: Mix in a handful of dried cranberries or raisins with the apple filling to add chewy bites of sweetness. This colorful twist offers a delightful surprise in each slice!
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Vegan Version: Substitute butter with coconut oil and use a flax egg for an entirely plant-based treat. You won’t miss the dairy one bit with this adaptation!
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Extra Sea Salt: For those who really love that sweet-salty combo, increase the garnish sea salt to taste after baking. It ensures every bite is perfectly balanced and oh-so-delicious!
If you enjoy exploring more caramel flavors, don’t miss out on my delightfully rich Chocolate Caramel Cheesecake or try the velvety Caramel Cheesecake Brownie for another indulgent experience!
What to Serve with Salted Caramel Apple Bars
When it comes to creating a delightful meal experience, a warm dessert like this deserves to be paired with just the right accompaniments.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a deliciously cool contrast that perfectly balances the warm, sweet flavors.
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Spiced Hot Apple Cider: This inviting drink echoes the apple flavors of the bars while adding a cozy warmth, making it ideal for chilly evenings.
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Whipped Cream: Light, airy whipped cream brings a touch of luxury to each bite, enhancing the salted caramel experience without overwhelming it.
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Chopped Nuts: Consider adding crushed pecans or walnuts on top for a crunchy texture that complements the softness of the apple and caramel layers.
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Coffee or Espresso: A hot cup of coffee or a rich espresso provides a pleasantly bitter contrast to the sweetness of the bars, perfect for those who enjoy a well-rounded experience.
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Milk or Almond Milk: Refreshing and simple, a glass of milk helps wash down the rich flavors and can be a kid-friendly pairing to please the whole family.
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Caramel Drizzle: A little drizzle of extra caramel sauce on the side can amplify the indulgence, inviting even more excitement with each delectable bite.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad featuring crisp pears or tangy berries offers a refreshing palate cleanser while contrasting beautifully with the richness of the bars.
These delightful accompaniments are sure to elevate your experience with Salted Caramel Apple Bars, creating memorable moments around the table!
Expert Tips for Salted Caramel Apple Bars
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Choose the Right Apples: Opt for firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a lovely texture. Avoid mealy varieties that won't hold up when baked.
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Prevent Sogginess: Ensure the crust is baked until lightly golden before adding the apple mixture. This step helps create a barrier that keeps the bars firm.
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Evenly Coat Your Apples: Toss the apples well with lemon juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg to ensure every piece is flavorful. This mix enhances the overall taste of your Salted Caramel Apple Bars.
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Use Quality Caramel Sauce: Whether homemade or store-bought, choose a rich salted caramel sauce for the best flavor. A high-quality sauce makes all the difference.
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Store Properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This way, you can enjoy your Salted Caramel Apple Bars even longer!
How to Store and Freeze Salted Caramel Apple Bars
Room Temperature: Store your Salted Caramel Apple Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and delicious.
Fridge: If you want to extend their shelf life, keep the bars in the refrigerator for up to a week. Be sure to cover them to maintain their softness.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, placing them in the freezer. They will last for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warm.
Make Ahead Options
These Salted Caramel Apple Bars are perfect for meal prep and can make your busy weeknights a breeze! You can prepare the crumbly crust up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can toss the diced apples with lemon juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg and keep them chilled separately for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bake the crust, layer the apple mixture and salted caramel, then sprinkle the crumble topping and bake as directed. This way, you’ll have deliciously fresh bars with minimal effort, just as scrumptious as if baked on the same day!
Salted Caramel Apple Bars Recipe FAQs
What type of apples should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! I recommend using firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. These apples hold their shape well during baking and provide a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness.
How should I store leftover Salted Caramel Apple Bars?
You can store your Salted Caramel Apple Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you'd like to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. Just remember to cover them to maintain their softness!
Can I freeze Salted Caramel Apple Bars?
Very! To freeze, wrap the cooled bars tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they will last for up to 3 months. To enjoy them later, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warm.
What can I do if my crust becomes too crumbly?
No worries! If your crust mixture seems too dry, you can add a tablespoon or two of melted butter until it reaches the desired consistency. It should hold together when pressed into the pan but not be overly wet or greasy.
Is it safe for my pet to eat these Salted Caramel Apple Bars?
While apples themselves are safe for dogs, the salted caramel sauce and sugars are not advisable for pets. It's best to enjoy these delicious bars yourself and offer your furry friends plain, unsweetened apple slices as a treat.
How do I know when my Salted Caramel Apple Bars are done baking?
You'll know your bars are ready when the top is golden brown and the apples are tender. A good visual cue is that the edges will start to pull slightly away from the sides of the pan, and the aroma will fill your kitchen, beckoning you to dive in!
Delicious Salted Caramel Apple Bars for Cozy Evenings
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- mixing bowl
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Filling
- 4 medium apples peeled, cored, and diced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ½ cup salted caramel sauce store-bought or homemade
For Garnishing
- 1 pinch sea salt for sprinkling on top
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all crust ingredients until crumbly.
- Press two-thirds of the mixture into the bottom of the baking dish and bake for 10-12 minutes.
- Toss diced apples with lemon juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Layer the apple mixture on top of the baked crust and drizzle with salted caramel sauce.
- Sprinkle remaining crumble over the apple and caramel layers.
- Bake for an additional 30-35 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool for 15-20 minutes and sprinkle with sea salt before slicing.
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