Can I make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are perfect for making ahead. You can prepare them up to 3 days in advance and store them covered in the refrigerator. The flavors actually improve over time, making them even more delicious. For longer storage, wrap individual bars tightly and freeze for up to 3 months

What's the best way to prevent soggy Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars?

The key to avoiding soggy bars is properly coating your apple slices with flour before layering them over the crust. This flour mixture absorbs excess juices during baking. Also, make sure to let the bars cool completely and chill them for at least 2 hours - this helps everything set properly and prevents sogginess.

Can I use different types of apples in my Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars?

Yes! I recommend using a combination of sweet and tart apples for the best flavor. Great options include Honeycrisp, Pink Lady, or Gala for sweetness, paired with Granny Smith or Braeburn for tartness. Avoid very soft apples like Red Delicious, as they may become mushy during baking.

How do I know when my Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are done baking?

Your bars are ready when the streusel topping is golden brown and the edges are lightly set. This typically takes 30-35 minutes at 350°F. The center may still look slightly soft, but it will continue to cook from residual heat and firm up as it cools. Don't overbake, as this can make the bars dry.

Can I make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars without the salted caramel?

While the salted caramel makes these bars extra special, they're absolutely delicious on their own! The combination of the buttery shortbread crust, spiced apple filling, and crunchy streusel creates a perfect dessert. You could also substitute with a simple powdered sugar glaze, vanilla icing, or serve with whipped cream or ice cream.

Ultimate Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Name: Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 3 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted; 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour; 2 large apples, peeled and thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/2 cup (43g) old-fashioned rolled oats; 1/3 cup (70g) packed light brown sugar; 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 cup (31g) all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup (56g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed; Salted caramel sauce for serving

Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

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Ultimate Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars with buttery shortbread crust, spiced apple filling, crunchy streusel topping, and divine salted caramel drizzle. Easier than traditional pie but just as delicious!

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
Yield: 16 bars
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
2 large apples, peeled and thinly sliced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 cup (43g) old-fashioned rolled oats
1/3 cup (70g) packed light brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 cup (31g) all-purpose flour
1/4 cup (56g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
Salted caramel sauce for serving

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 300°F (149°C). Line 8-inch square pan with parchment paper.
Make crust: Mix melted butter, sugar, vanilla, salt, and flour. Press into pan. Bake 15 minutes.
Prepare filling: Toss sliced apples with flour, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Make streusel: Combine oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, flour. Cut in cold butter until crumbly.
Increase oven to 350°F. Layer apples over crust, top with streusel. Bake 30-35 minutes.
Cool 20 minutes, then chill 2 hours before cutting.
Serve with salted caramel drizzle.

Notes

Use mix of sweet and tart apples for best flavor
Chill bars completely before cutting for clean slices
Store covered in refrigerator up to 5 days
Can freeze for up to 3 months
Homemade salted caramel is recommended but store-bought works

Find it online: https://recipeshots.com/salted-caramel-apple-pie-bars/