Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, letting it hang over the edges for easy removal.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Incorporate the cold butter cubes using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press about two-thirds of this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. This forms your crust!
- In another bowl, toss the apple slices with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice until the apples are well coated.
- Spread the apple mixture evenly over the crust layer.
- Drizzle the salted caramel sauce generously over the apples.
- Crumble the remaining flour mixture over the top of the apples and caramel to create a nice topping.
- Finish by lightly sprinkling coarse sea salt over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the topping turns golden brown and the apples are fork-tender.
- Allow the bars to cool completely inside the pan before lifting them out and cutting into squares.
Best ways to enjoy it
These salted caramel apple pie bars are scrumptiously versatile! Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert, or enjoy them plain as a delicious snack. Pair them with a warm cup of spiced cider or a latte for a perfect afternoon treat. They’re also great topped with whipped cream or a drizzle of extra caramel sauce if you’re feeling indulgent!
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate them for about a week if you want them to last longer. For longer storage, these bars freeze beautifully—just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. To enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge and warm them gently in the oven so the caramel softens deliciously.
Helpful cooking tips
- Make sure your butter is really cold; this helps to create a flaky crust.
- Feel free to mix different apple types for enhanced depth of flavor.
- For a deeper salted caramel flavor, consider making your own caramel sauce at home.
- Be patient and let the bars cool completely before cutting—they’ll hold together better!
Creative twists
Want to customize these bars? Here are a few ideas to inspire you:
- Swap the apples for pears or a mixture of the two for a different flavor profile.
- Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch and richness.
- Experiment with spices—try adding ginger or allspice for a fall-inspired twist.
- For a chocolate lover’s version, sprinkle miniature chocolate chips over the apples before adding the caramel.
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare and bake these bars?
Preparation takes about 20 minutes, and baking requires 45-50 minutes. Allow extra time for cooling before cutting.
Can I use other types of apples?
Certainly! Feel free to use whatever apples you have on hand, but tart varieties like Granny Smith work particularly well for a balanced flavor.
How should I store leftovers?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them tightly wrapped.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
With these salted caramel apple pie bars, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing dessert in no time. Whether for a holiday feast or a cozy family meal, these bars are sure to become a favorite!
