Salted Caramel Apple Bars: Your New Fall Favorite! 🍎✨🍯

1. Introduction

Discover the irresistible charm of salted caramel apple bars, a delightful fall dessert that perfectly combines the tartness of fresh apples with rich, buttery caramel and a touch of sea salt. Whether you’re seeking an easy apple dessert to impress guests or a cozy treat for family gatherings, these bars are sure to become your new favorite. Their luscious caramel topping, tender apple filling, and crisp crust make them a must-try for the autumn season.

2. Ingredients for Salted Caramel Apple Bars

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup old-fashioned oats
1 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
4 large apples (Granny Smith or Fuji), peeled and sliced
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 cup salted caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Sea salt flakes for sprinkling

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Salted Caramel Apple Bars

Preparing the Crust and Topping

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, and salt. Stir until well combined.

Add Cold Butter

Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Reserve about one-third of this mixture for the topping.

Press the Base

Press the remaining mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish to form the crust. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes until lightly golden.

Filling and Assembly

Prepare the Apples

In a bowl, toss the sliced apples with granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Spread the apple mixture evenly over the pre-baked crust.

Add Caramel and Topping

Drizzle the salted caramel sauce over the apples. Sprinkle the reserved oat mixture for added crunch and texture.

Bake the Bars

Return to the oven and bake at 350°F (175°C) for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown.

Finish with Salt and Serve

Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt flakes on top while still warm for that perfect salty-sweet contrast. Allow to cool slightly before slicing into squares.

4. Storage Tips for These Fall Apple Dessert Bars

To keep your salted caramel apple bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, they freeze well—wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

5. Serving Suggestions for Your Delicious Apple Bars

Serve these easy apple dessert bars warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgence. They also pair wonderfully with a cup of spiced tea or pumpkin spice latte during chilly fall evenings.

Need to elevate your baking game? Check out some top baking tools like the Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker or the CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set to make your baking process even smoother!

6. Frequently Asked Questions about Salted Caramel Apple Bars

Can I substitute the apples?

Yes, you can use pears or a mix of different apples for varied flavors. For a different twist, try caramelized pears for a more seasonal variation.

Are these bars suitable for vegans?

You can make this fall dessert vegan by using vegan butter and vegan caramel sauce. Check out some vegan baking supplies at this link.

How long does it take to prepare?

The total preparation and baking time is approximately 1 hour, making it perfect for a quick yet impressive easy apple dessert.

7. Kitchen Tools That You Might Need for This Recipe

To enhance your baking experience, consider using these essential tools:

CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set — for effortless baking and clean-up
Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker — to keep your beverages cold during baking sessions
Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master — perfect for peeling or slicing apples quickly

8. Conclusion

There’s no denying that salted caramel apple bars are a quintessential fall dessert. With their perfect balance of tart apples, gooey caramel, and a buttery, crunchy crust, they elevate any seasonal gathering or family dinner. Whether you enjoy them warm or chilled, these bars are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and become a staple for autumn celebrations. Give this recipe a try today, and enjoy the taste of fall in every bite!