Introduction to Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars
If you're in search of a treat that perfectly blends nostalgia with a modern twist, look no further than salted caramel apple pie bars. These delightful bars capture the essence of classic apple pie while offering the convenience of easy, handheld portions. Ideal for gatherings or cozy nights in, this dessert takes the beloved flavors of sweet apples, buttery crust, and luscious caramel to a new level.
Why are Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars the perfect treat?
There’s something truly magical about the combination of sweet, spiced apples and rich, salty caramel. With every bite, you’ll enjoy a harmonious mix of textures—from a crisp shortbread crust to a tender apple filling, all topped with a crunchy streusel. Plus, these bars are incredibly versatile; serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or cold with a drizzle of warm caramel sauce on top.
What’s more, they’re an effortless way to impress friends and family at your next potluck. Who can resist a dessert that’s both visually appealing and undeniably delicious? So, gather your apples and let's get baking. You'll soon discover why these salted caramel apple pie bars will become your go-to recipe for any occasion!
Ingredients for Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars
Creating the perfect batch of salted caramel apple pie bars starts with gathering the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for each delectable layer of these bars:
Shortbread Crust Ingredients
For a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth crust, gather:
- Unsalted butter – ½ cup (8 Tbsp; 113g), melted
- Granulated sugar – ¼ cup (50g)
- Pure vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon
- Salt – ¼ teaspoon
- All-purpose flour – 1 cup (125g) spooned & leveled
Apple Filling Ingredients
This is where the heart of the pie comes in! You’ll need:
- Large apples – 2, peeled and thinly sliced (about ¼ inch thick)*
- All-purpose flour – 2 tablespoons
- Granulated sugar – 2 tablespoons
- Ground cinnamon – 1 teaspoon
- Ground nutmeg – ⅛ teaspoon
Streusel Ingredients
For that irresistible crumbly topping, gather:
- Old-fashioned whole rolled oats – ½ cup (43g)
- Brown sugar – ⅓ cup (70g), packed (light or dark)
- Ground cinnamon – ¼ teaspoon
- All-purpose flour – ¼ cup (31g) spooned & leveled
- Unsalted butter – ¼ cup (4 Tbsp; 56g), cold and cubed
- Salted caramel sauce – either homemade or store-bought
Now you're all set to bake your delicious salted caramel apple pie bars! Each ingredient plays a crucial role, contributing to the gorgeous layers of flavor you'll love.
If you’re eager to get the full experience, let’s dive into the baking instructions!
Step-by-Step Preparation of Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars
Baking can be both exciting and therapeutic, especially when you’re creating something as delightful as salted caramel apple pie bars. These bars blend a buttery shortbread crust with juicy, spiced apples and a crumbly streusel topping, all topped off with luscious salted caramel. Here's a simple guide to prepare this delicious dessert!
Prepare the baking pan
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (149°C). While it's heating up, take an 8-inch square baking pan and line it with parchment paper. Don’t rush through this step! Make sure to leave some overhang, as it will help you lift out the bars later. This little trick will make cutting and serving a breeze!
Make the shortbread crust
In a medium bowl, combine ½ cup of melted unsalted butter, ¼ cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Stir it all together until smooth. Then, gently fold in 1 cup of all-purpose flour until a crumbly dough forms. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Pop it in the oven for about 15 minutes, and while it’s baking, you can start on the filling and streusel.
Combine the apple filling ingredients
For the filling, grab two large apples—a mix of tart and sweet varieties works best, like Granny Smith and Pink Lady. Peel and thinly slice them (about ¼ inch thick), and toss them in a large bowl with 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of nutmeg. Make sure every slice is coated for the ultimate flavor.
Create the streusel topping
Next, whisk together ½ cup of old-fashioned oats, ⅓ cup of packed brown sugar, ¼ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and ¼ cup of flour in a medium bowl. This is where the magic happens! Cut in ¼ cup of cold, cubed butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This will add that amazing crunch to your salted caramel apple pie bars.
Layer and bake the bars
Once your crust is ready, increase the oven temperature to 350°F (177°C). Layer the apples on the warm crust, pressing them down to fit. It might look like a lot, but trust the process! Sprinkle the streusel mixture evenly over the apples and bake for 30–35 minutes until the topping is golden brown and your kitchen smells heavenly.
Cool and cut the bars
Once baked, let the bars cool at room temperature for at least 20 minutes. Then, for the best texture, transfer them to the fridge and chill for a couple of hours (or overnight if you can wait!). When you’re ready to serve, lift the bars out using the parchment overhang, cut them into squares, and generously drizzle with your homemade or store-bought salted caramel sauce. Enjoy your delectable salted caramel apple pie bars warm, at room temperature, or cold—there’s no wrong way to savor them!
For even more baking tips and delicious recipes, feel free to check out Sally’s Baking Addiction. Happy baking!
Variations on Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars
When it comes to salted caramel apple pie bars, flexibility is key. Let's explore some delightful variations to customize these treats to your taste!
Add Nuts for Crunch
For an extra layer of texture and flavor, consider adding your favorite nuts. Pecans or walnuts work brilliantly—roughly chop them and incorporate them into the streusel topping for that satisfying crunch. Not only do they provide a pleasing contrast to the soft apple filling, but they also add a lovely nutty flavor that complements the caramel beautifully.
Incorporate Different Apple Varieties
Mixing various apple types can elevate your salted caramel apple pie bars. Try combining tart Granny Smith apples with sweet Honeycrisp or Fuji for a balanced taste. Each apple brings its unique flavor profile, resulting in a richer, more complex filling. For a little extra fun, experiment with local apple varieties to surprise your family and friends!
By playing around with these variations, you'll create a personalized version of this classic dessert that everyone will love!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars
Use fresh apples for the best flavor
Selecting the right apples is crucial for your salted caramel apple pie bars. Fresh, crisp apples like Granny Smith for tartness and Pink Lady for sweetness create a delightful balance. You’ll want to slice them thinly—about ¼ inch works best—to ensure they become tender without losing their shape. This not only enhances the taste but also makes for a beautiful presentation. For more apple varieties, check out the USDA website.
Tips for making streusel perfectly crumbly
Achieving that perfect streusel topping is easier than you think! Make sure your butter is cold and cubed before mixing it in, as this helps achieve that crumbly texture. For even better results, use a pastry blender or your hands to incorporate the butter until it resembles coarse crumbs. A mixture that’s slightly uneven can add delightful texture to your salted caramel apple pie bars. Remember, don’t overmix—those buttery bits are the key to a crispy streusel!
Happy baking!
Serving Suggestions for Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars
Pair with Ice Cream
Nothing beats the classic combination of salted caramel apple pie bars and a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The warmth of the bars combined with the coolness of the ice cream creates a delightful contrast that enhances both flavors. For an extra treat, you can drizzle more salted caramel sauce over the top before serving. Trust us—this pairing might just become your new favorite dessert duo!
Serve with Whipped Cream
If you prefer a lighter topping, a dollop of freshly whipped cream is a perfect match for your salted caramel apple pie bars. The airy texture complements the richness of the caramel and the sweetness of the apples beautifully. For an elevated touch, add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the whipped cream to echo the spices in the bars. This simple addition will impress your friends and family during gatherings!
Explore other topping ideas or garnish options on sites like Food Network or Serious Eats to expand your dessert game further.
Time Breakdown for Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars
Preparation time
The preparation time for these delicious salted caramel apple pie bars is about 25 minutes. This is when you’ll gather your ingredients, make the shortbread crust, and prepare the apple filling and streusel topping.
Cooking time
The cooking time will take around 45 minutes. This includes baking the crust and then the apple pie bars until they achieve that golden-brown finish.
Total time
Overall, the total time from start to finish is approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes. This includes cooling time, so plan accordingly if you're making these for a special occasion! After chilling, you're ready to cut, drizzle with caramel, and indulge in these creamy, satisfying bars.
For a smooth process, consider prepping the salted caramel sauce beforehand or use a store-bought version for convenience. Either way, your guests will love these bars!
Remember to check out more ideas on baking with apples at The Kitchn.
Nutritional Facts for Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars
When indulging in salted caramel apple pie bars, it's helpful to know what you're putting into your body. Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutrition you can expect per bar:
Calories
Each bar packs approximately 200 calories, making it a satisfying treat without overly straying from your daily limits.
Total Fat
These delicious bars contain around 9 grams of total fat. The buttery crust and rich caramel contribute to this, providing a decadent feel.
Sugar
Sweetened with natural sugars from apples and added sweetness from caramel, each bar has roughly 12 grams of sugar. Moderation is key, but the flavors are certainly worth it!
For more detailed nutritional information, websites like USDA FoodData Central offer extensive databases to help you understand the nutritional value of ingredients. Enjoy your baking adventure!
FAQ about Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! To turn your salted caramel apple pie bars into a gluten-free delight, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, such as Bob's Red Mill or King Arthur. Make sure to check if your oats are certified gluten-free as well to maintain their gluten-free status.
How do I store leftovers?
Storing leftovers is a breeze! Keep your salted caramel apple pie bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy them longer, they freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. Just thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
Sure thing! If you're short on time, feel free to use store-bought caramel sauce. Look for a high-quality brand for the best flavor. This can save you some prep time while still giving you that delicious salted caramel experience in each bite.
For tips on selecting the best caramel sauce, check out this helpful guide.
Conclusion on Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars
In summary, these salted caramel apple pie bars offer a delightful twist on a classic favorite. With their buttery shortbread crust, spiced apple filling, and rich caramel drizzle, they’re perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy—give this recipe a try and satisfy your sweet tooth!
Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars
Equipment
- 8-inch square baking pan
- medium bowl
- large bowl
- whisk
- Pastry Blender
Ingredients
Shortbread Crust
- ½ cup unsalted butter melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
Apple Filling
- 2 large apples peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 Tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Streusel
- ½ cup old-fashioned whole rolled oats
- ⅓ cup packed brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup unsalted butter cold and cubed
- homemade salted caramel or store-bought caramel sauce
Instructions
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 300°F (149°C). Line the bottom and sides of an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper leaving enough overhang on all sides. Set aside.
- Make the crust: Stir the melted butter, granulated sugar, vanilla, and salt together in a medium bowl. Add the flour and stir until everything is combined. Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 15 minutes and then remove from the oven.
- Make the apple filling: Combine the sliced apples, flour, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg together in a large bowl until all of the apples are evenly coated. Set aside.
- Make the streusel: Whisk the oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and flour together in a medium bowl. Cut in the chilled butter with a pastry blender or two forks until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside.
- Turn the oven up to 350°F (177°C). Evenly layer the apples on top of the warm crust. Sprinkle the apple layer with streusel and bake for 30–35 minutes or until the streusel is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool for at least 20 minutes at room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. Cut into bars and drizzle with salted caramel sauce before serving.
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