Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars Recipe

If you're looking for a delightful dessert that combines the classic flavors of apple pie with the indulgence of salted caramel, then these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are the perfect treat! Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving something sweet, these bars are sure to impress. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

What are “Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars”?

Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are a mouthwatering dessert that layers buttery shortbread crust, spiced apple filling, and a rich salted caramel topping. These bars offer the comforting taste of apple pie with a twist, making them a unique and irresistible treat.

Ingredients List for Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

For the Crust:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Apple Filling:

• 3 cups Granny Smith apples, peeled and diced
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

For the Salted Caramel Sauce:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon sea salt

Substitutions and Variations

• Apples: You can substitute Granny Smith apples with Honeycrisp or Fuji for a sweeter flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour for the crust.
• Vegan Option: Replace butter with coconut oil and use a plant-based cream for the caramel sauce.
• Caramel: Store-bought salted caramel sauce can be used for convenience.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

How to Cook Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Make the Crust:
   • In a medium bowl, combine the flour, softened butter, sugar, salt, and vanilla extract. Mix until crumbly.
   • Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 8x8-inch baking dish. Bake for 15 minutes until lightly golden.
3. Prepare the Apple Filling:
   • In a large bowl, mix the diced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Toss until apples are well-coated.
4. Assemble the Bars:
   • Remove the crust from the oven and spread the apple mixture evenly over it. Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes until the apples are tender.
5. Make the Salted Caramel Sauce:
   • In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the sugar until it turns a golden brown color, stirring constantly.
   • Carefully add the butter and stir until melted. Slowly add the heavy cream, whisking continuously until smooth. Stir in sea salt.
6. Finish the Bars:
   • Once the apple layer is done, pour the warm salted caramel sauce over the top. Allow to cool at room temperature for about 1 hour.
7. Chill and Cut:
   • Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours before cutting into squares.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Apples: Ensure the apples are tender but not mushy. Keep an eye on the baking time.
2. Burning the Caramel: Stir constantly when melting sugar to prevent it from burning. If it starts to smell burnt, it’s too late to save it!
3. Not Allowing Enough Cooling Time: Let the bars cool completely before slicing for clean cuts.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

• Serve warm or chilled, drizzled with extra salted caramel sauce and a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Garnish with a sprinkle of sea salt for an extra touch.

Presentation Ideas for Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

• Place the bars on a decorative platter, arranging them in a neat grid.
• Use parchment paper for easy lifting and a rustic look.
• Add a sprig of mint on top for a pop of color.

Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars Recipe Tips

• For an extra crunch, add chopped pecans or walnuts to the apple filling.
• Experiment with spices; adding a pinch of ginger can give a nice warmth to the flavor.
• Make ahead of time and store in the refrigerator; the flavors develop beautifully overnight!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I freeze Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars?
Yes! These bars freeze well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

2. How long do they last in the fridge?
They can be stored in the fridge for up to one week, though they are best enjoyed within the first few days.

3. Can I use other fruits?
Absolutely! Pears or berries can be used instead of apples for a different flavor profile.

4. What if I don’t have heavy cream for the caramel?
You can substitute with half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative.

5. Is it necessary to chill before cutting?
Chilling helps set the caramel and makes cutting the bars easier, but you can serve them warm if you prefer.

Conclusion

These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are a delightful twist on a classic dessert, combining the comforting taste of apples with the rich sweetness of caramel. With their easy preparation and crowd-pleasing flavors, they're perfect for any occasion. So grab your ingredients and get baking—you won’t regret it! Enjoy every bite of these delicious bars, and don’t forget to share with family and friends!

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