Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars Recipe

If you’re craving something that tastes like the sweetest slice of fall, you absolutely have to try my Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars Recipe. These bars hit all the right notes with a buttery shortbread crust, tender spiced apples, and that irresistible gooey salted caramel on top. Whether you’re baking for a cozy family night or a gathering with friends, you’ll find that this recipe is fan-freaking-tastic—and pretty much impossible to resist.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

This Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars Recipe balances simple pantry staples with bright, fresh apples and a mix of warm spices that bring it all together. The shortbread crust holds everything nicely, and don’t skip the homemade caramel if you can—it really takes these bars to the next level.

• Unsalted butter: Make sure it’s melted for the crust and cold, cubed for the streusel—this contrast helps build texture.
• Granulated sugar: Used in both crust and filling for sweetness without overpowering.
• Pure vanilla extract: Adds a beautiful depth to the buttery crust.
• Salt: A pinch in the crust to balance the sweetness and highlight flavors.
• All-purpose flour: Foundation for the crust, filling thickener, and streusel base.
• Apples: I love mixing tart Granny Smiths with sweeter Pink Lady apples—you get complexity and just the right sweetness.
• Ground cinnamon and nutmeg: Classic warming spices that transform simple fruit into dessert magic.
• Old-fashioned rolled oats: For that satisfying streusel crunch.
• Light or dark brown sugar: Adds molasses-rich flavor and moisture to the streusel.
• Caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought): Don’t skimp here—drizzling salted caramel makes these bars utterly unforgettable.

Variations

One of my favorite things about this Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars Recipe is how easy it is to make your own. I’ve tweaked the recipe many times, depending on the season or what I have on hand, and each version has its own charm.

• Apple variety swaps: Sometimes I use Honeycrisp instead of Pink Lady for a juicier bite, or add a handful of diced pears for subtle sweetness.
• Nutty topping: Adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the streusel is my go-to when I want extra crunch and nuttiness.
• Dietary tweaks: For gluten-free lovers, swapping the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free blend works surprisingly well.
• Caramel alternatives: If you want a bit less sweetness, try drizzling with a caramel glaze made with cream cheese and brown sugar instead.

How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Bake the Buttery Shortbread Crust

First things first—get your oven to 300°F (149°C) and line your 8-inch square pan with parchment paper with overhang; this makes lifting the bars out a breeze later. Then, mix your melted butter, sugar, vanilla, and salt together. Stir in your flour until it comes together like a soft dough. Press this evenly into the pan, making sure it’s firmly packed so it bakes into a nice crisp base. Pop it in the oven for 15 minutes—don’t skip this step because the crust gives the bars that perfect crunchy foundation.

Step 2: Toss the Apples with Spices and Flour

While your crust bakes, slice those apples thinly—around ¼ inch is my sweet spot, not too thick to avoid sogginess, but enough to still feel substantial. Then toss them with the flour, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This coating not only flavors the apples but thickens their juices as they bake, so you won’t have liquid pooling on the bars. I always double check that every slice is nicely coated; this step sets the stage for a luscious filling.

Step 3: Make the Crunchy Streusel Topping

Next up, the streusel—the part that gives these bars their irresistible crumble. Mix oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and flour, then cut in cold butter until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. I like to use my fingers here—it warms the butter just enough without melting it completely. Keep the butter cold because that’s what creates those beautiful little clumps that bake into crispy clusters.

Step 4: Layer Apples and Bake at 350°F

Turn your oven up to 350°F (177°C). Spread the apples evenly over your warm crust—it might seem like a lot, but pack them in, pressing down gently to fit. Then sprinkle your streusel all over the top. Bake 30–35 minutes until the streusel is golden and the apples are tender. I always peek at around 30 minutes to avoid overbaking. Once out of the oven, let it cool before popping it in the fridge to chill for at least two hours; this helps the bars set for cleaner slicing.

Step 5: Cut into Bars and Drizzle with Salted Caramel

Lift the bars out using the parchment overhang and slice them however you prefer—16 smaller bars or 12 larger ones. Now the best part: drizzle warm or room temperature salted caramel over each bar just before serving. I love how this finishing touch brings everything together with that sweet-salty richness that’s just dreamy.

How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars Recipe

Garnishes

I keep it simple by drizzling extra salted caramel on top, but feel free to add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt if you want that little crunch and burst of salty goodness. Sometimes I toss on a handful of chopped toasted pecans for a nutty contrast. A dollop of whipped cream or scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side makes these bars feel extra special.

Side Dishes

These bars are a perfect cozy dessert, so I like pairing them with a hot cup of coffee or chai tea. They also go surprisingly well with a simple green salad with tangy vinaigrette if you want to balance the sweetness for a light meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday parties, I’ve arranged these bars on a rustic wooden board with caramel sauce in a ramekin for dipping. Another favorite is layering bars in a trifle dish with whipped cream and chopped nuts for an elevated look. Ribbon-wrapped small boxes with a bar inside also make darling gifts!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After baking, these bars last beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. I usually keep them chilled because the caramel and filling hold their texture best that way. They’re just as delicious eaten cold or warmed slightly in the microwave.

Freezing

I’ve frozen these bars wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, I thaw them overnight in the fridge. Freezing doesn’t compromise flavor or texture, which is such a win when you want to prep ahead for a party or busy week.

Reheating

To warm leftovers, a quick zap in the microwave for 20-30 seconds does wonders without melting the caramel too much. Alternatively, I reheat slices in a low oven (about 300°F) wrapped loosely in foil for 10 minutes to get a gentle warmth that revives the fresh-baked feel.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars Recipe is one I keep coming back to when I want comfort food with a touch of elegance. Every bite reminds me of cozy family gatherings and the joy of sharing homemade treats. I know you’ll love how easy it is to whip up these bars, and even more, you’ll adore the smiles they bring to your table. So grab some apples, make a batch, and get ready for your new favorite dessert bar!

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