Salted Caramel Apple Bars are a cozy, delicious treat that combines sweet, tart apples with rich caramel and a hint of salt. These bars have a soft, buttery crust and a gooey caramel drizzle that pools over tender apple slices, creating the perfect mix of flavors and textures. They’re like having a slice of apple pie and a caramel candy all in one easy-to-eat bar.
I love making these bars when the weather starts to cool down because they instantly make the kitchen smell warm and inviting. My favorite part is the touch of salt sprinkled on top—it really makes the caramel pop and balances out the sweetness. Whenever I share these bars with friends, they always ask for the recipe because they’re both comforting and a little special.
These bars are great served slightly warm, maybe with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side. They also keep well, so I often wrap them up to take along to parties or to enjoy as a snack the next day. They’re an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert that makes any gathering feel a little sweeter.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Granny Smith apples are great for a tart flavor and hold up well during baking. You can swap with Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn for a sweeter or softer filling.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best so you control the salt level, especially with the salted caramel. If needed, use a quality margarine, but the flavor may change slightly.
Brown Sugar: It adds moisture and a rich flavor to both crust and caramel. You can substitute with coconut sugar for a more caramel-like taste and a bit less sweetness.
Heavy Cream: This makes the caramel rich and smooth. For a lighter alternative, use half-and-half, but expect a thinner sauce.
How Do You Get the Perfect Crumbly Texture for the Crust and Topping?
Getting a crumbly crust and topping means mixing just until combined and using melted butter for richness and cohesion. Here’s what helps:
- Mix dry ingredients first to distribute spices and leavening evenly.
- Add melted butter and egg slowly, stirring gently to form crumbs, not a dough ball.
- Press 2/3 of this crumb mixture firmly into the pan for a sturdy crust; leave the rest loose for the topping.
- Bake until the top is golden brown to ensure it crisps without drying out.
A light hand and patience lead to that tender, crumbly texture that makes these bars so delightful.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking pan – perfect size for these bars and helps them bake evenly.
- Parchment paper – makes it easy to lift bars out without sticking.
- Mixing bowls – handy for combining dry ingredients, apple filling, and dough separately.
- Small saucepan – you’ll use this to make the smooth salted caramel drizzle right on the stove.
- Whisk and wooden spoon – the whisk keeps the caramel smooth, and the spoon helps mix thicker dough parts well.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient amounts to get the texture and taste just right.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap apples for pears or a mix of apples and pears for a slightly softer, sweeter filling with similar texture.
- Add 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans) in the topping for a crunchy contrast and nutty flavor.
- Mix in 1 tsp ground ginger or nutmeg to the apple filling for a warm spice twist perfect for fall.
- Use caramel sauce with a hint of bourbon or vanilla for a richer, adult-friendly drizzle.
How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust and Topping:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
For the Apple Filling:
- 4-5 medium apples (Granny Smith or your choice), peeled, cored, and diced or sliced
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
For the Salted Caramel Drizzle:
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp sea salt (or to taste)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and around 45-50 minutes for baking. Allow an extra 15 minutes for cooling before adding the caramel drizzle. Overall, plan for roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pan and Crust:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it. In a large bowl, mix the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Stir in melted butter and egg until the mixture forms a crumbly dough. Press about two-thirds of this dough evenly on the bottom of your prepared pan to make the crust.
2. Make the Apple Filling:
In another bowl, toss the peeled and chopped apples with granulated sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and flour until all the pieces are coated well. Spread this apple mixture evenly over the crust layer in your pan.
3. Add the Topping and Bake:
Crumble the remaining dough evenly over the apple layer. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the topping turns golden and the apples are tender.
4. Prepare and Add the Salted Caramel Drizzle:
While baking, prepare the salted caramel sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, then whisk in the brown sugar. Cook for about 2 minutes, then slowly whisk in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 3 to 5 minutes while stirring often, until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and sea salt. Once the bars have cooled for at least 15 minutes, drizzle this caramel sauce generously over the top.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Cut the bars into squares and enjoy them warm or at room temperature. These salted caramel apple bars make a perfect sweet treat any time of year!
Can I Use Frozen Apples for the Filling?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mixing with the sugar and spices. This helps prevent a soggy crust.
How Should I Store Leftover Bars?
Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat gently before serving for the best taste.
Can I Make the Caramel Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can make the caramel sauce up to 3 days in advance. Keep it refrigerated in a sealed jar and warm slightly before drizzling over the bars.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream in the Caramel?
If you don’t have heavy cream, use half-and-half or whole milk, but keep in mind the caramel will be thinner and less rich. Simmer a bit longer to thicken if needed.
