Irresistible Salted Caramel Apple Bars for Fall

Fall Salted Caramel Apple Bars Delight 🍏🍬🍂

1. Introduction

As the leaves turn vibrant shades of orange and red, there’s no better way to celebrate the season than with a decadent dessert that combines the crispness of fall apples with the rich sweetness of salted caramel. These salted caramel apple bars are the perfect fall dessert bars for gatherings, cozy nights in, or a special treat to indulge in. Juicy apples layered with gooey salted caramel and a buttery crust create a flavor profile that screams autumn in every bite. Whether you’re an experienced baker or trying this recipe for the first time, you’ll love how simple and satisfying these caramel apple bars are to make. Discover how to craft this delightful fall dessert today!

2. Ingredients for Fall Salted Caramel Apple Bars

• 2 cups of peeled, diced tart apples (about 2 medium apples)
• 1 cup of granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup of salted butter
• 1/4 cup of heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon of sea salt, divided
• 2 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup of rolled oats
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon of baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda
• 1/2 cup of brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

3. How to Make the Perfect Salted Caramel Apple Bars

Step 1: Prepare the apple filling

Start by peeling, coring, and dicing the tart apples into small cubes. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the apples with a tablespoon of butter and a sprinkle of cinnamon until they soften. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the salted caramel

In a saucepan, melt the remaining butter and add sugar. Stir constantly over medium heat until the mixture turns a rich amber color, about 5-7 minutes. Carefully stir in the heavy cream and 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt. Continue cooking for another minute until smooth. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the crust

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and remaining salt. Add the cold butter and mix until crumbly. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a lined 9×13 inch baking dish.

Step 4: Assemble the bars

Spread the cooled apple mixture evenly over the crust. Drizzle the salted caramel sauce over the apples, spreading gently to cover evenly. For a finishing touch, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top for enhanced flavor.

Step 5: Bake to perfection

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and bubbly. Allow to cool slightly before slicing into bars.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Salted Caramel Apple Bars

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the bars wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer-safe container for up to a month. To enjoy later, thaw in the refrigerator and serve at room temperature or warmed up in the microwave.

5. Serving Suggestions for Fall Apple Bars

These salted caramel apple bars are delightful on their own, but for an extra fall touch, serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They also pair beautifully with a cup of hot apple cider or a spicy chai latte. Looking for more fall-inspired desserts? Explore our fall apple brownies and other seasonal treats.

6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a different type of apple?

Absolutely! Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples work well because they hold their shape and balance sweetness with tartness. Feel free to experiment with your favorite fall apple varieties.

Are these bars suitable for gluten-free diets?

To make gluten-free salted caramel apple bars, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure oats are certified gluten-free.

How long does it take to prepare and bake?

The entire process takes about 1 hour, including prep, baking, and cooling time. The most time-consuming part is assembling and baking the bars.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! These bars can be made 1-2 days in advance. Store them in the refrigerator, and let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

• Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master — Perfect for slicing and dicing apples safely and efficiently.
• CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set — Ensures even baking and easy cleanup of your salted caramel apple bars.
• Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker — Chill your beverages while baking or enjoy a refreshing drink with your dessert.
• TOSHIBA Compact & Smart Microwave — Quickly warm up or serve your bars with ease.

Investing in these tools ensures a smooth baking experience and elevates your fall dessert game!

8. Conclusion

There’s no better way to celebrate the joy of fall than with these homemade salted caramel apple bars. Combining tart apples, buttery crust, and decadent salted caramel, each bite offers a perfect harmony of flavors—sweet, salty, and spiced. Enjoy making this seasonal treat for family gatherings, holidays, or just because you deserve a comforting, delicious dessert. Happy baking!

9. Final Tips & Inspiration

For an extra crunch, sprinkle chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts over the salted caramel before baking. You can also swap the caramel sauce with a drizzle of chocolate for a different twist. Combine this recipe with your other favorite fall desserts or use leftover caramel as a topping for ice cream or yogurt. Embrace the flavors of autumn and indulge in this irresistible treat!

Print