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Salted Caramel Apple Bars

Mouthwatering Salted Caramel Apple Bars for Fall Bliss

Indulge in Salted Caramel Apple Bars, a delightful fusion of tender apples and rich caramel—perfect for autumn gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Cooling Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Course Desserts
Cuisine American
Servings 12 slices
Calories 240 kcal

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk

Ingredients
  

For the Crust and Topping

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour gives the base a sturdy yet tender texture.
  • 1 cup old-fashioned oats adds chewiness and depth of flavor.
  • ¾ cup brown sugar infuses a rich sweetness and moisture.
  • ½ cup granulated sugar brings sweetness that balances the brown sugar.
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda helps the crust rise slightly for a perfect bite.
  • ¼ teaspoon salt enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, melted binds the ingredients and adds richness.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract adds warm, aromatic notes to the crust.

For the Apple Filling

  • 4 medium-sized apples, peeled, cored, and diced choose a mix of tart and sweet varieties for complex flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice prevents browning and brightens the apple flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon cinnamon adds warmth and comforting spice to the filling.
  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg introduces a subtly sweet and earthy flavor.

For the Caramel Drizzle

  • ½ cup salted caramel sauce use store-bought for convenience or homemade for an extra special touch.
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt (for garnishing) enhances the caramel’s rich flavor.

Instructions
 

Step-by-Step Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, old-fashioned oats, brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking soda, and salt. Use a whisk to ensure all ingredients are well mixed. Pour in the melted butter and vanilla extract, and mix until the mixture resembles a crumbly texture.
  • Take about two-thirds of the crumbly mixture and firmly press it into the bottom of your greased baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until it turns lightly golden.
  • While the crust bakes, toss the diced apples in a separate bowl with lemon juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir until the apples are evenly coated and set aside.
  • After removing the crust from the oven, layer the spiced apple mixture evenly over the baked base. Drizzle the salted caramel sauce generously on top.
  • Sprinkle the remaining crumbly mixture over the top evenly.
  • Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 30-35 minutes until golden brown.
  • Once baked, let the Salted Caramel Apple Bars cool in the pan for at least 15-20 minutes before serving.

Notes

For best flavor, use a mix of tart and sweet apples. Watch baking time closely to avoid over-baking. Cool completely before cutting for neat slices.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 240kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 2gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 120mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 0.5mg
Keyword apple bars, autumn recipes, caramel bars, easy dessert, fall dessert, Salted Caramel Apple Bars
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