Caramel apple pie bars combine the delectable flavors of caramel, apples, and buttery crust, turning a classic dessert into a convenient bar form. Perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying at home, these treats offer all the comforting taste of pie without the fuss. If you love the classic apple pie but want something a little easier to serve, this recipe is for you!
Why Make This Recipe
Making caramel apple pie bars is a great way to enjoy the flavors of autumn year-round. This recipe is not only simple but also allows you to make a large batch that is great for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings. The combination of sweet caramel, tart apples, and a crumbly topping is sure to amaze your taste buds. Plus, they are flexible enough to be served warm, at room temperature, or even chilled!
How to Make Caramel Apple Pie Bars
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3–4 apples (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), peeled and diced
- 2 tbsp flour
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper to make removing the bars easier.
Make the Crust/Topping: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Then, add the flour and salt, mixing until the mixture is crumbly. Reserve about 1/3 of this mixture for the topping. Press the remaining crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to create the crust.
Mix the Filling: In a separate bowl, toss the diced apples with the 2 tablespoons of flour, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Spread this apple filling evenly over the crust you’ve just created.
Top it Off: Crumble the reserved dough over the apple filling, ensuring a nice even layer covers the apples.
Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is bubbly. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan.
Drizzle with Caramel: Warm the caramel sauce slightly and drizzle it generously over the cooled bars before slicing them into squares. Serve and enjoy!
How to Serve Caramel Apple Pie Bars
These decadently sweet treats are best served at room temperature or slightly warmed, making them great for a cozy dessert after dinner. You can pair them with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgence. These bars are also fantastic for breakfast with a cup of coffee or as a sweet afternoon snack.
How to Store Caramel Apple Pie Bars
To maximize freshness, store your caramel apple pie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider refrigerating them, where they can last up to a week. You can also freeze them! Just cut the bars, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe container. They will keep for up to three months. Before serving, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature.
Tips for Success with Caramel Apple Pie Bars
- Choose the Right Apples: Using a combination of sweet and tart apples, like Honeycrisp and Granny Smith, can yield the best flavor.
- Don’t Overmix the Dough: When mixing the dough, be careful not to overwork it. You want a crumbly texture for that perfect crust and topping.
- Adjust the Spices: Feel free to play around with the spices! A touch of allspice or ginger can add a delightful twist to your bars.
- Serve Warm for Best Enjoyment: For the best experience, serve these bars warm with caramel sauce drizzled over the top.
Variations
You can modify this basic recipe in several ways to suit your taste. Here are a few ideas:
- Add Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts can add a delightful crunch and flavor.
- Use Different Fruits: Substitute apples with pears or even berries for a different twist.
- Spice it Up: Adding a few tablespoons of bourbon or rum to the filling can enhance the flavor profile beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of caramel sauce?
Absolutely! Feel free to use homemade caramel sauce or your favorite store-bought version. The choice will impact the flavor, but each is delicious in its own way.
2. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the bars a day or two in advance. They often taste even better after sitting, as the flavors meld together.
3. What kind of ice cream pairs well with these bars?
Vanilla ice cream is a classic choice, but caramel or even cinnamon ice cream can provide a wonderful complement to the pie bars.
Enjoy these caramel apple pie bars for an easy, delightful dessert that captures the flavors of the season! For more delicious dessert recipes, check out our Sweet Baked Apple Fritters and explore more dessert ideas on our website. Feeling adventurous?