Name: Fall Delight Salted Caramel Apple Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups chopped apples; 1 cup salted caramel sauce; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and diced; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt

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Fall Delight Salted Caramel Apple Bars: Irresistible Fall Dessert Bars 🍏🍯✨

1. Introduction

As the leaves change and a cozy chill fills the air, nothing beats a sweet, comforting treat that captures the essence of fall. These salted caramel apple bars are the perfect fall dessert bars, combining the tartness of fresh apples with the rich sweetness of caramel and a touch of salt for a delightful balance. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or craving a homemade treat, this recipe for caramel apple bars will become your new favorite.

2. Ingredients for Salted Caramel Apple Bars

2 cups peeled and diced apples (Granny Smith or Fuji work well)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1 teaspoon flaky sea salt (for topping)
Optional: chopped nuts or sprinkles for extra crunch

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3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Make the Best Salted Caramel Apple Bars

Prepare the Apple Filling

Begin by peeling, coring, and diced the apples. Toss them with a teaspoon of cinnamon and set aside.

Create the Crust and Topping

Mix the flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt in a bowl. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or fingertips until crumbly. Reserve some for topping if desired.

Assemble the Bars

Press half of the crumbly mixture into a greased baking pan to form the crust. Spread the diced apples evenly over the crust. Drizzle with caramel sauce and sprinkle with remaining crumbly mixture on top.

Bake the Fall Dessert Bars

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for approximately 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Remove from oven and sprinkle with flaky sea salt while still warm.

Cool and Serve

Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally topped with whipped cream or ice cream for an even more decadent experience.

4. Storage Tips for Perfectly Fresh Salted Caramel Apple Bars

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. To keep them moist and delicious, reheat slightly before serving. For longer storage, you can freeze the bars wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to one month.

5. Serving Suggestions and Pairings

These fall dessert bars pair wonderfully with a cup of hot cider, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of extra caramel sauce. They’re perfect for holiday celebrations, potlucks, or cozy family nights.

6. FAQ About Salted Caramel Apple Bars

Can I use fresh or canned apples?

Fresh apples are preferred for their crisp texture, but canned or frozen diced apples can work in a pinch. Drain excess liquid before adding.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure oats are certified gluten-free for a safe and delicious gluten-free version.

How long do these salted caramel apple bars take to prepare?

From start to finish, including baking and cooling, plan on about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Active prep time is approximately 20 minutes.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set — This set helps you prepare pastry, caramel, and more with ease, ensuring your salted caramel apple bars turn out perfect every time.
Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker — Keeps your drinks icy cold while you bake, perfect for serving alongside these fall dessert bars.
Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker — You can use this to warm up your caramel sauce or make homemade caramel from scratch.

8. Related Recipes for Fall Dessert Bars

9. Conclusion

Enjoy the warm aroma and delightful taste of these salted caramel apple bars during the cozy fall months. Their perfect combination of tart apples, sweet caramel, and a hint of salt makes them an irresistible treat for family and friends. With simple steps and accessible ingredients, you can create a delicious fall dessert that will impress everyone. Happy baking!