Salted Caramel Apple Bars are a delightful fusion of sweet and salty flavors, perfect for any occasion. With a buttery crust enveloping tender Granny Smith apples and rich caramel, these bars are topped with a sprinkle of coarse sea salt for that perfect finishing touch. The combination creates a treat that is both indulgent and comforting, making it a must-try for dessert lovers. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking to satisfy a sweet tooth, these bars will surely impress!

Why You’ll Love This Salted Caramel Apple Bars

There are countless reasons to adore these salted caramel apple dessert bars. First, they deliver a heavenly balance of flavors, making every bite a delightful experience. Second, they’re easy to prepare, allowing you to whip up a batch in no time. Third, they cater to different dietary needs; you can even make gluten-free salted caramel apple bars with simple substitutions. Fourth, these bars are visually appealing, with their golden crust and glossy caramel topping. Fifth, they store well, making them perfect for meal prep. Lastly, they can be customized with nuts or even chocolate chips, offering various salted caramel apple bar variations to suit your preferences.

Ingredients for Salted Caramel Apple Bars

Gather these items:

2 cups butter, softened
1 cup white sugar
1 and ½ cups powdered sugar
1 Tablespoon vanilla extract
4 cups flour
2 medium apples, chopped (Granny Smith preferred)
1 14 ounce bag caramels, unwrapped (or 11 oz unwrapped Caramel Bits)
⅓ cup whipping cream

½ teaspoon vanilla extract
2 teaspoons coarse sea salt (adjust as desired)

How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Bars Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9×13 inch pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil and lightly spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, white sugar, and powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy. Add 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract and beat until fully combined. Gradually mix in the flour until a soft dough forms.
Step 3: Press half of the prepared dough evenly into the bottom of the lined 9×13 pan to create the crust layer. Place the remaining dough in the refrigerator to chill while the base bakes. Bake the base in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.

Step 4: While the crust bakes, melt the caramels, whipping cream, and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract together in the microwave for 1 minute. Stir until smooth. Stir in the chopped apples evenly into the caramel mixture. Once the crust is out of the oven, pour this filling evenly over the hot crust. Lightly sprinkle 2 teaspoons of coarse sea salt over the filling, distributing it evenly but sparingly to balance the sweetness.
Step 5: Remove the remaining chilled dough from the refrigerator and crumble it evenly over the caramel apple layer. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25 to 30 minutes, until the filling is bubbly and the top layer is firm and golden.

Step 6: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into 16 squares to ensure they hold together well. Serve and enjoy the decadent blend of salty caramel and tart apples.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Salted Caramel Apple Bars

Keep these in mind:

Use tart apples like Granny Smith for the best contrast against the sweetness of the caramel.
Let the bars cool completely before cutting for cleaner slices.

For an extra flavor kick, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon to the apple filling.
Make sure not to overmix the dough; it should be soft and slightly crumbly.
These bars are a hit when served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!

Best Ways to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Bars

These bars are incredibly versatile! Serve them warm with a drizzle of extra caramel sauce for an indulgent dessert experience. They can also be enjoyed cold, making them a perfect option for packed lunches or picnics. Pair with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an irresistible treat. If you want a twist, try them with a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added crunch!

How to Store and Reheat Salted Caramel Apple Bars

Store any leftovers of your homemade salted caramel apple bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds until warm. They also freeze well; wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions About Salted Caramel Apple Bars

What’s the secret to perfect Salted Caramel Apple Bars?

The key to perfect salted caramel apple treats lies in using high-quality caramel and tart apples. Ensure your crust is not overbaked, as it should be soft yet firm enough to hold the filling’s moisture.

Can I make Salted Caramel Apple Bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These caramel apple dessert squares can be made a day in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Salted Caramel Apple Bars?

To avoid common pitfalls, ensure your butter is softened but not melted. Also, watch the baking time closely; overbaking can lead to dry bars, while underbaking may result in a soggy base.

Variations of Salted Caramel Apple Bars You Can Try

Get creative with these variations for your salted caramel and apple snack bars. Add nuts like walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch, or incorporate spices like nutmeg for a warm flavor. You can also make a salted caramel apple crumble bars version by adding an additional crumb topping. For a chocolate twist, sprinkle chocolate chips over the caramel layer before adding the apples!

For more information on baking techniques, check out this baking basics guide. If you’re interested in learning about the health benefits of apples, visit this Healthline article on apples. And for tips on how to store baked goods, see this Food Network guide.

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