Irresistible Salted Caramel Apple Bars for Fall
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Indulge in the rich flavors of fall with these irresistible salted caramel apple bars. Perfectly sweet and salty, these treats are sure to become a seasonal favorite.
These salted caramel apple bars are the perfect blend of sweet and salty, making them an ideal treat for your fall gatherings. The combination of fresh apples and rich caramel sauce creates a delightful dessert that everyone will love.
Why You Will Love These Bars
- Decadent caramel flavor perfectly complemented by tart apples
- A delightful combination of textures from the chewy crust to the gooey topping
- Great for sharing at fall parties or simply enjoying at home
The Perfect Fall Treat
As the leaves start to change and the air turns crisp, nothing says fall like the combination of apples and caramel. These salted caramel apple bars capture the essence of the season, making them a perfect dessert for any autumn gathering. Whether you're celebrating a holiday or simply enjoying a cozy evening at home, these bars bring warmth and nostalgia to every bite.
The tartness of fresh apples pairs beautifully with the sweetness of caramel, creating a flavor profile that is both comforting and exciting. With each mouthful, you experience a delightful contrast between the crunchy crust and the gooey topping, making these bars not just a treat for the taste buds, but also a feast for the senses.
Making Memories with Friends and Family
These salted caramel apple bars are not just a dessert; they are an opportunity to create lasting memories with loved ones. Imagine gathering around the table with friends and family, sharing stories and laughter while enjoying these delectable treats. They are perfect for potlucks, birthday parties, or a simple backyard gathering.
As you cut the bars into squares and serve them, the delightful aroma of caramel and baked apples fills the room, inviting everyone to indulge. Sharing a homemade dessert is a heartwarming way to connect with others, making every bite even more enjoyable and special.
Tips for Perfecting Your Bars
To achieve the best results with your salted caramel apple bars, it's essential to choose the right type of apples. Varieties such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp provide a wonderful tartness that balances the sweetness of the caramel. Make sure to peel and dice the apples evenly to ensure uniform cooking and flavor distribution throughout the bars.
Additionally, allow the bars to cool completely before slicing. This step is crucial as it helps the bars set properly, making them easier to cut and serve. If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding nuts or a sprinkle of oats to the crust for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Filling
- 2 cups peeled and diced apples (about 2 medium apples)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ cup brown sugar
For the Caramel Topping
- 1 cup caramel sauce
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
Make sure to have all your ingredients measured out and ready to go before you start!
Instructions
Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract. Gradually mix in the flour and salt until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9x9 inch baking dish.
Make the Filling
In a separate bowl, toss the diced apples with cinnamon and brown sugar. Spread the apple mixture evenly over the crust.
Add the Caramel
Drizzle the caramel sauce over the apple filling, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Sprinkle sea salt on top for that extra flavor kick.
Bake the Bars
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the edges are golden brown. Allow to cool completely before slicing into bars.
Enjoy your delicious salted caramel apple bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or on their own!
Storing Your Salted Caramel Apple Bars
Once baked and cooled, these salted caramel apple bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend their freshness, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
For longer storage, consider freezing the bars. Cut them into squares, wrap each piece in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.
Serving Suggestions
These salted caramel apple bars are delicious on their own, but you can elevate your serving experience by adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top. The creamy texture beautifully complements the chewy bars and adds a delightful contrast to the sweet and salty flavors.
For a fun twist, consider drizzling additional caramel sauce over the top before serving. This not only enhances the caramel flavor but also makes for a stunning presentation that will impress your guests. Dusting with a sprinkle of cinnamon can also add an extra touch of fall flavor.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
Absolutely! Store-bought caramel sauce is a great time-saver.
→ How should I store the bars?
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze the salted caramel apple bars?
Yes, you can freeze the bars for up to 3 months. Just make sure they are well-wrapped.
→ What type of apples are best for this recipe?
A mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples works wonderfully for a balance of tartness and sweetness.
Irresistible Salted Caramel Apple Bars for Fall
Indulge in the rich flavors of fall with these irresistible salted caramel apple bars. Perfectly sweet and salty, these treats are sure to become a seasonal favorite.
Created by: Chloe Baker
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 16 bars
What You'll Need
For the Crust
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Filling
- 2 cups peeled and diced apples (about 2 medium apples)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ cup brown sugar
For the Caramel Topping
- 1 cup caramel sauce
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract. Gradually mix in the flour and salt until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9x9 inch baking dish.
In a separate bowl, toss the diced apples with cinnamon and brown sugar. Spread the apple mixture evenly over the crust.
Drizzle the caramel sauce over the apple filling, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Sprinkle sea salt on top for that extra flavor kick.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the edges are golden brown. Allow to cool completely before slicing into bars.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 90mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 20g
- Protein: 2g