As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of freshly baked salted caramel apple bars wafting through your home. Perfect for a cozy evening with family or a fun get-together with friends, these treats bring a touch of warmth to any fall gathering. Inspired by classic apple desserts and the irresistible allure of caramel, these bars are destined to become a new favorite.
What sets these salted caramel apple bars apart is not just their delightful blend of flavors but also their easy preparation. With simple, wholesome ingredients and a few straightforward steps, you can create a dessert that captures the essence of autumn like no other. Whether you’re lounging on a chilly day or hosting a festive holiday party, these bars offer an experience that combines nostalgia with culinary delight.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe for salted caramel apple bars is the perfect fusion of sweet and savory that everyone loves. With a buttery crust, juicy apple filling, and a rich layer of salted caramel, it’s a dessert that appeals to all tastes. If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both impressive and easy to make, look no further. These bars are ideal for potlucks, family gatherings, or even a cozy night in with your loved ones. Plus, they provide a wonderful way to use those delicious fall apples!
What Does The Recipe Taste Like
The taste of these salted caramel apple bars is a delightful harmony of flavors. Each bite begins with a crumbly, buttery crust that melts in your mouth, followed by the tartness of fresh apples that are lightly spiced with cinnamon. The finale comes from the warm, oozy salted caramel topping, which adds depth and a luxurious sweetness that makes you crave more. The subtle hint of salt cuts through the sweetness, making each bar perfectly balanced. It’s a flavor experience that transports you straight to an autumn orchard.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients
- For the crust:
2 cups all-purpose flour – This forms the base of your bars, providing structure and a tender texture.1/2 cup granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and helps create a tender crumb in the crust.1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed – Essential for creating a flaky, buttery crust.1/4 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness of the sugar and enhances flavor.1/4 cup ice water – Binds the ingredients together to form the dough.
- For the filling:
3 cups apples, peeled, cored, and chopped – Tart apples are best for a fresh flavor; try Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.1/2 teaspoon cinnamon – Adds warmth and enhances the apple flavor.1/4 cup brown sugar – Gives depth and a slight caramel flavor.
- For the caramel topping:
1 cup granulated sugar – This is the base of the caramel and needs to be heated to achieve that perfect texture.1/2 cup heavy cream – Adds richness and creaminess to the caramel.1/4 teaspoon sea salt – Essential for that salted caramel flavor that takes these bars to the next level.
Optional Additions
- Chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts can add a lovely crunch.
- A sprinkle of nutmeg for an additional warm spice flavor.
- For an extra layer of flavor, drizzle some melted chocolate on top before serving.
Special Garnishes
- Whipped cream dollops can add a light and creamy touch.
- A sprinkle of sea salt on top enhances the salted caramel flavor.
- Fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the crust: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the ice water, mixing until the dough just comes together. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the filling: In another bowl, combine the chopped apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Toss until the apples are evenly coated and set aside.
3. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Roll out the crust: After chilling, roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface. Fit it into the greased baking dish, pressing it into the corners. Trim any excess dough from the edges.
5. Add apple filling: Spread the apple mixture evenly over the crust.
6. Make the caramel: In a saucepan, melt the granulated sugar over medium heat. Stir constantly until it melts and turns a golden amber color. Slowly add the heavy cream (be careful, it will bubble) and stir until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the sea salt.
7. Assemble and bake: Pour the caramel over the apple layer, spreading it evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the apples are tender and the edges are golden brown.
8. Cool and serve: Let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Recipe Variations
These salted caramel apple bars are versatile, allowing for various personal touches. You can experiment with different types of apples to see which combination you enjoy best. Consider adding dried cranberries for a tangy twist or swapping out the traditional caramel for a chocolate drizzle. For those who prefer a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour, ensuring all other ingredients are also gluten-free. The possibilities are endless!
Serving and Storage Tips
These salted caramel apple bars can be served immediately or stored for later enjoyment. If you’re planning to serve them at a gathering, cut them into small squares for easy sharing. Place leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week. For extended storage, freeze the uncut bars for up to 3 months; thaw them in the fridge overnight before serving.
Helpful Tips
- Ensure your butter is cold for the crust. This helps create a flaky texture.
- Don’t skip chilling the crust; it helps maintain its shape during baking.
- Feel free to adjust the salt in the caramel to your preference—it’s all about personal taste!
Special Equipment
For this recipe, you will need a few key pieces of equipment, such as:
- A 9×13 inch baking dish to hold your bars.
- A medium-sized saucepan for making caramel.
- A mixing bowl for combining the crust ingredients.
- A rolling pin to roll out the dough for the crust.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen apples for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen apples. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before using them in the filling.
Is there a way to make these bars dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the butter with a plant-based version and use coconut cream in place of heavy cream for the caramel.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
Your bars are done when the apples are tender and the edges of the crust are golden brown. You can also test by inserting a knife or toothpick to see if it comes out clean.
Can I make the salted caramel in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the salted caramel ahead of time. Just store it in a jar in the refrigerator and gently reheat it before drizzling over the bars, if desired.
Conclusion
These salted caramel apple bars are not just a dessert; they’re an experience filled with sweet flavors and beloved fall aromas. Perfect for gathering with family and friends, this recipe captures the essence of togetherness and comfort. We hope you’ll give this recipe a try and consider sharing your experiences or adaptations in the comments below.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a cozy evening, these bars offer a delicious way to create memorable moments with your loved ones. Trust us; once you taste them, you’ll be coming back for more!
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Irresistible Salted Caramel Apple Bars Sweet Savory Delight
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in irresistible salted caramel apple bars a perfect blend of sweet savory Enjoy this delight in every bite ideal for any occasion
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 250 calories
- Sugar: 16 grams
- Fat: 12 grams
- Saturated Fat: 12 grams
- Carbohydrates: 36 grams
- Fiber: 1 gram
- Protein: 2 grams
