Name: Fall Salted Caramel Apple Bars Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; ½ cup granulated sugar; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; 4 large apples, sliced; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; ½ cup caramel sauce; 1 teaspoon sea salt flakes

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Fall Salted Caramel Apple Bars Delight 🍏🍯✨

1. Introduction

Welcome to your new favorite fall dessert! These Salted Caramel Apple Bars combine the juicy sweetness of fresh apples with rich, gooey caramel and a perfect hint of sea salt. Whether you’re looking for a comforting treat or a show-stopping dessert for your holiday gatherings, these Caramel Apple Bars are sure to impress. Not only do they capture the flavors of fall, but they also make a wonderful addition to any rustic or elegant dessert table.

2. Ingredients for Salted Caramel Apple Bars

2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour
1 cup of rolled oats
1 cup of packed brown sugar
½ teaspoon of salt
1 cup of unsalted butter, cold and cubed
4 large Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
1 cup of caramel sauce
¼ teaspoon of sea salt for sprinkling
Optional: chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Fall Salted Caramel Apple Bars

Preparing the Crust and Topping

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, and salt. Stir well to evenly distribute all the dry ingredients.

Add the Butter

Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This creates a flaky, buttery crust and crumble topping.

Bake the Crust

Press two-thirds of the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 15 minutes or until lightly golden.

Prepare the Apple Layer

While the crust is baking, peel and slice the apples. Toss them with a little sugar and cinnamon if desired. Once the crust is ready, distribute the apples evenly over the baked base.

Assemble the Layers

Drizzle the caramel sauce over the apples, spreading evenly. Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture over the top for a delightful crunch. Finish with a light sprinkle of sea salt for that perfect salted caramel flavor.

Bake the Final Product

Return the assembled bars to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the caramel is bubbly.

Cooling and Serving

Let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent fall treat.

4. Storage Tips for 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 fresh longer, freeze individual bars wrapped tightly with plastic wrap and foil. They reheat beautifully in the microwave or oven, making delicious fall dessert bars ready whenever you crave them.

5. Serving Suggestions

Serve these salted caramel apple bars warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of extra caramel sauce. They make a wonderful addition to autumn potlucks, holiday dinners, or cozy family gatherings. Incorporate seasonal flavors like cinnamon or nutmeg for an even more festive twist.

6. FAQs About Salted Caramel Apple Bars

Can I use different types of apples?

Yes! Granny Smith apples give a nice tart contrast, but Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn apples also work well for a sweeter flavor.

Are these Bars gluten-free?

Not unless you use gluten-free oat and flour options. Substitute with certified gluten-free products if needed.

How long does it take to prepare these Caramel Apple Bars?

The total prep and baking time is approximately 1 hour, making it a perfect last-minute fall dessert.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! They can be baked a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Warm slightly before serving for the best flavor and texture.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

To make your Salted Caramel Apple Bars flawlessly, consider investing in these reliable kitchen tools:

CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set: This set ensures your baking pans are nonstick and easy to clean, making your baking experience smoother.
Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master: Perfect for slicing apples efficiently and quickly.
Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker: Ideal for preparing caramel sauce or keeping desserts warm for serving.
Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker: Keep your drinks cool or create festive beverages to pair with your dessert.

8. Conclusion

There’s no better way to celebrate the flavors of fall than with these irresistible Salted Caramel Apple Bars. Combining the best of seasonal fruits, rich caramel, and a crunchy topping, these Fall Dessert Bars will become a recurring favorite for your family and friends. Whether you’re serving them at holiday gatherings or enjoying a cozy night in, they’re guaranteed to bring smiles and satisfy sweet cravings. Happy baking!