Directions to follow
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring there’s an overhang on the sides for easy lifting later.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and either use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Take about two-thirds of this mixture and press it evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan to create the crust.
- In another bowl, toss the thinly sliced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice until they’re well coated.
- Evenly spread the apple mixture over the crust layer you just created.
- Drizzle salted caramel sauce generously over the top of the apples.
- Crumble the leftover flour and butter mixture over the apples and caramel, ensuring even coverage.
- Sprinkle coarse sea salt lightly over the entire surface for that perfect sweet-salty combination.
- Bake in your preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender.
- Allow the dessert to cool completely in the pan before lifting it out and cutting it into bars for serving.
Best ways to enjoy it
When it comes to serving these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars, the options are endless! For a comforting dessert, serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. You can also drizzle extra salted caramel on top and garnish with a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added crunch. For a brunch delight, pair them with a hot cup of coffee or spiced cider—it’s an unbeatable combination sure to please your guests!
How to store & freeze
To keep your leftover bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend their life, consider freezing them. Place the bars in a freezer-safe container and layer parchment paper between them to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to three months—just thaw in the fridge before enjoying. Always remember to use safe food handling practices to preserve quality!
Helpful cooking tips
- Use cold butter! This is crucial for achieving that flaky texture in your crust.
- Feel free to mix apple varieties for a more complex flavor profile—Granny Smith and Honeycrisp work beautifully together.
- If you want an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a pinch of ginger to the apple mix.
- Keep your pearls of wisdom close: letting the bars cool completely will make cutting them easier.
Creative twists
Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, think about trying different flavor variations. How about adding a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch? You could also switch out the caramel sauce for a chocolate drizzle for a mouthwatering contrast. For the more adventurous, consider incorporating a touch of bourbon into your caramel sauce for an adult twist!
Common questions
What is the prep time for Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars?
The preparation time is about 20 minutes, and with baking, the total time is approximately 70 minutes.
Can I use a different type of apple for this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different varieties like Fuji, Gala, or even a mix, as this will change the flavor profile and sweetness slightly.
How long can I keep the leftover bars in the fridge?
These bars can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, but they’re best enjoyed within the first few days when they’re fresh!
