Irresistible Salted Caramel Apple Bars for Fall
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Irresistible Salted Caramel Apple Bars for Fall
These Salted Caramel Apple Bars are the perfect blend of sweet and salty, making them a delicious treat for the fall season. The combination of tender apples, rich caramel, and a buttery crust will leave you wanting more!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Sweet and salty flavor combination that is irresistible
- Tender apples baked in a rich caramel sauce
- Perfect for sharing at fall gatherings
The Perfect Fall Treat
As the leaves turn golden and the air becomes crisp, there's nothing quite like indulging in a warm dessert that embodies the essence of fall. These Salted Caramel Apple Bars combine the freshness of apples with the decadence of caramel, making them a delightful treat for any autumn gathering. Whether you're hosting a cozy dinner or enjoying a quiet evening at home, these bars are sure to elevate your fall experience.
The sweetness of the caramel pairs beautifully with the tartness of the apples, creating a balanced flavor profile that will leave your taste buds craving more. Each bite is a harmonious blend of textures, from the crumbly crust to the tender apple filling, topped with a rich ribbon of caramel. It’s a dessert that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a standout centerpiece at any table.
Sharing the Joy
Fall is a season of togetherness, and these Salted Caramel Apple Bars are perfect for sharing. Imagine serving them at a potluck or family gathering, where everyone can enjoy a slice of this delightful dessert. They’re easy to transport and serve, allowing you to spread joy through your baking. Your friends and family will appreciate the effort, and you might just become the go-to dessert maker for future gatherings.
Additionally, these bars are a fantastic way to use seasonal apples. With so many varieties available in fall, you can experiment with different types to find your perfect combination. Whether you prefer tart Granny Smiths or sweet Honeycrisps, each variety will add its unique flavor to the recipe, making it versatile and adaptable to your taste.
Tips for Perfect Bars
To ensure your Salted Caramel Apple Bars turn out perfectly, start by choosing high-quality ingredients. Fresh apples are key to achieving the best flavor, so consider visiting a local farmers' market for the freshest selection. Additionally, if you're making homemade caramel, be sure to monitor it closely. Overcooked caramel can become too hard, while undercooked caramel may not set properly.
Another tip is to let the bars cool completely before slicing. This helps them hold their shape and makes for cleaner cuts. If you're in a hurry, you can refrigerate them for a bit to speed up the cooling process. Lastly, don’t be shy with the sea salt topping; it enhances the sweetness and brings out the flavors beautifully.
Ingredients
For the crust and topping
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
For the apple filling
- 3 cups peeled and diced apples
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the caramel
- 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, melted butter, salt, and cinnamon. Mix until crumbly. Press half of the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
Make the apple filling
In another bowl, toss the diced apples with granulated sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Spread the apple mixture evenly over the crust.
Add caramel and topping
Drizzle the caramel sauce over the apples and sprinkle the remaining crust mixture on top.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing into bars.
Serve
Drizzle with extra caramel and sprinkle with sea salt before serving. Enjoy your irresistible salted caramel apple bars!
Enjoy these delicious bars warm or at room temperature!
Storing Your Bars
Once your Salted Caramel Apple Bars are baked and cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them, where they can last up to a week. Just make sure to allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.
If you're making these bars ahead of time, you can also freeze them. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat if desired.
Pairing Suggestions
These Salted Caramel Apple Bars are wonderfully versatile when it comes to pairing. For a cozy evening, serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to complement the rich flavors. The creaminess balances the sweetness of the caramel and the tartness of the apples, creating a delightful contrast.
For those who enjoy a little extra warmth, a cup of spiced cider or a pumpkin latte pairs beautifully with these bars. The spices in the drinks echo the flavors in the dessert, enhancing the overall fall experience. Whether it’s a gathering with friends or a quiet night in, these pairings elevate the enjoyment of your delicious creation.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
Yes, pears or a mix of apples and pears would work well.
→ How do I store leftover bars?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
→ Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
→ How can I make homemade caramel sauce?
Melt 1 cup of sugar in a saucepan over medium heat until it turns golden brown, then slowly stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream and a pinch of salt.
Irresistible Salted Caramel Apple Bars for Fall
Irresistible Salted Caramel Apple Bars for Fall
Created by: Keira Dalton
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 bars
What You'll Need
For the crust and topping
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
For the apple filling
- 3 cups peeled and diced apples
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the caramel
- 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, melted butter, salt, and cinnamon. Mix until crumbly. Press half of the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
In another bowl, toss the diced apples with granulated sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Spread the apple mixture evenly over the crust.
Drizzle the caramel sauce over the apples and sprinkle the remaining crust mixture on top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing into bars.
Drizzle with extra caramel and sprinkle with sea salt before serving. Enjoy your irresistible salted caramel apple bars!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 51g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 30g
- Protein: 3g