These salted caramel apple bars have everything you crave in a fall dessert. A rich, buttery shortbread crust forms the base. On top sits a gooey apple filling made with fresh sliced apples, warm spices, and just the right amount of sweetness. A golden crumble topping adds the perfect crunch. Each bar is finished with a drizzle of thick, salted caramel that ties everything together. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday gathering or keeping a batch in the fridge for yourself, these bars are a guaranteed hit.
Table of Contents
Why This is the Best Salted Caramel Apple Bar Recipe
- Perfectly balanced flavors with sweet apples, salty caramel, and a hint of spice in every bite
- Incredibly easy to make using simple steps and no fancy tools
- One dough does double duty as both the crust and the crumble topping saving time and effort
- Makes a full pan of salted caramel apple bars that are perfect for parties, potlucks, and cozy nights in
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“Some energy bars include whole grains, dried fruit and nuts, offering a good balance of carbs, protein, fiber and healthy fat for sustained energy.” Natalie Allen, Clinical Instructor of Nutrition and Dietetics, Missouri State University
You’ll Also Love
➤ Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake
➤ Apple Cider Whoopie Pies
Ingredients Needed
Here’s everything you need to make a batch of delicious salted caramel apple bars. The ingredients are grouped by layer to make preparation even easier.
For the Shortbread Crust
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
For the Apple Filling
- 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
For the Streusel Topping
- 1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
- 4 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
- Salted caramel sauce for drizzling, homemade or store-bought
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
The Best Apples for Baking
For the perfect salted caramel apple bars, choose firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Pink Lady. These varieties hold their shape during baking and bring a tart edge that balances the sweetness of the caramel.
Old-Fashioned vs. Quick Oats
Old-fashioned rolled oats give the streusel a hearty, chewy texture that holds up well during baking. Quick oats can work in a pinch but will create a softer topping.
Salted vs. Unsalted Butter
Salted butter adds an extra pop of flavor to both the crust and the streusel topping. If you prefer to control the salt more precisely, use unsalted butter and add a pinch of salt separately.
Flour Choices
All-purpose flour keeps the structure light and tender. For a gluten-free option, use a one-to-one gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.
How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Bars
- Preheat your oven to 300°F and line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper. Let the parchment hang over the edges so you can lift the bars out easily later.
- Start with the crust. In a medium bowl, mix the melted butter, granulated sugar, vanilla, and salt until smooth. Add the flour and stir until the dough forms. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan to create an even layer. Bake for 15 minutes. While the crust bakes, move on to the filling and topping.
- Prepare the apple filling by combining the thinly sliced apples with flour, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Toss everything together until the apples are evenly coated and set the bowl aside.
- For the streusel topping, combine oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and flour in a separate bowl. Add the cold, cubed butter. Use your fingers, a fork, or a pastry cutter to blend until the mixture turns into coarse crumbs.
- Raise the oven temperature to 350°F. Layer the apple mixture on top of the warm crust. Don’t worry if it seems like a lot of apples. Pack them tightly to help them cook evenly.
- Sprinkle the streusel evenly over the apple layer. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the top turns golden brown and the apples feel soft when pierced.
- Let the bars cool at room temperature for at least 20 minutes. Then chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours so they set properly. Once chilled, lift the bars out using the parchment and cut them into squares.
- Drizzle salted caramel sauce over each bar before serving. These salted caramel apple bars taste amazing chilled, at room temperature, or slightly warmed.
Salted Caramel Apple Bars
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, mix melted butter, granulated sugar, vanilla, and salt until smooth. Stir in flour until a dough forms. Press into pan evenly. Bake for 15 minutes.
- Meanwhile, prepare apple filling: toss sliced apples with flour, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
- For the streusel: combine oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and flour. Add cold butter and mix until crumbly.
- Raise oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). Layer apple mixture over warm crust and press gently.
- Sprinkle streusel evenly on top. Bake 30–35 minutes until golden brown and apples are tender.
- Cool at room temperature for 20 minutes, then refrigerate at least 2 hours before slicing.
- Drizzle salted caramel sauce before serving. Serve chilled, room temp, or slightly warmed.
Notes
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Calories: 265 | Total Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 30mg | Sodium: 95mg | Total Carbohydrates: 36g | Dietary Fiber: 2g | Sugars: 21g | Protein: 2g Nutrition Disclaimer Nutritional information provided is an estimate and may vary based on the products and brands you use. Calculate the actual nutrition values using your preferred nutrition calculator and the exact ingredients you choose.What You’ll Need
★ 8-inch square baking pan
★ Parchment paper
★ Mixing bowls (medium and large)
Pro Tips for Perfect Apple Bars
Chill the Streusel for Better Texture
For a crisp and crumbly topping, place the streusel mixture in the freezer for 30 to 60 minutes before using. This helps the butter stay solid and creates distinct, crunchy bits after baking.
Avoid Overmixing the Dough
Mix the crust just until the ingredients come together. Overmixing can make the crust tough and dense instead of tender.
Measure Flour the Right Way
Use the scoop and level method. Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. This prevents adding too much flour, which can dry out the crust and topping.
Slice Apples Evenly
Cut your apples into thin, even slices about a quarter-inch thick. This ensures they cook at the same rate and turn tender without turning mushy.
Use a Metal Pan if Possible
Metal pans conduct heat more evenly than glass, helping the crust bake through without overbrowning the top.
Recipe Variations
Gluten-Free Salted Caramel Apple Bars
Swap the all-purpose flour in the crust, filling, and streusel with a one-to-one gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Make sure the oats are certified gluten-free if needed.
Nut-Free Version
If you typically add chopped nuts to the streusel topping, you can simply leave them out. For extra texture, replace the nuts with a bit more rolled oats or shredded coconut.
Apple Crisp Bars
For a simpler version with less sweetness, reduce the caramel or leave it out completely. You’ll still get the cozy flavor of apple crisp in bar form.
Lower Sugar Option
Cut the sugar in the filling and streusel slightly without losing flavor. You can also use a naturally sweet apple like Fuji or Gala to make up for the reduced sugar.
Mini Apple Bars for Snacking
Bake the same recipe in a mini muffin tin lined with paper cups for small, bite-sized treats that are easy to serve at parties or pack for lunch.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Why is my crust soggy
The crust may not have baked long enough before adding the filling. Always pre-bake the shortbread base to give it a firm structure. Also, make sure to leave excess liquid from the apple filling in the bowl before layering it on.
Why is my filling watery
Some apples release more juice than others. Using firm baking apples and adding a bit of flour helps absorb the moisture. If needed, a small amount of cornstarch can thicken the filling even more.
Why did my streusel topping melt
This usually happens when the butter is too soft. Make sure the butter is cold and cut into cubes before mixing. For best results, chill the streusel mixture before baking.
What do you need for a caramel apple bar
You need a sturdy crust, a spiced apple filling, a crumbly oat topping, and a rich salted caramel sauce to drizzle over the top.
What toppings go well with salted caramel
Crushed pecans, sea salt flakes, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream make great additions to these bars.
How to stop caramel from sliding off apples
Let the bars cool completely before drizzling the caramel. A cold surface helps the caramel set instead of running off.
How do you keep apple pie bars from being soggy
Always pre-bake the crust and avoid adding too much liquid from the filling. Cooling the bars completely also helps them firm up.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
At Room Temperature
You can store salted caramel apple bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Keep them in a cool spot away from direct sunlight.
In the Refrigerator
For longer freshness, place the bars in a sealed container and refrigerate them. They will stay good for five to six days while keeping their texture and flavor.
How to Freeze
To freeze the entire batch, let the bars cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. For individual bars, wrap each one separately before freezing. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for about an hour. Reheat gently in the microwave if you prefer them warm.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the best apples for apple bars
Firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Pink Lady, and Cortland work best. They hold their shape during baking and provide a balance of tartness and sweetness that pairs perfectly with salted caramel.
Do I have to peel the apples
Yes, peeling the apples gives the filling a smooth texture. The skins can become tough or chewy after baking, so it’s best to remove them.
Can I double this recipe
Absolutely. You can double the ingredients and use a 9 by 13-inch baking dish. The bake time may need a slight increase, so check that the streusel is golden and the apples are tender before removing from the oven.
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce
Yes, store-bought caramel works just fine for salted caramel apple bars. Just be sure to choose a thick, high-quality sauce. If it is too runny, chill it slightly before drizzling.
Medical Disclaimer
The information shared in this salted caramel apple bars recipe is for general use only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Always consult with your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your diet or if you have specific health concerns. Never ignore medical guidance based on information found online. Your personal health needs may vary, and it’s important to make informed choices with professional support.
Final Thoughts
These salted caramel apple bars bring together everything you love in a dessert. The buttery shortbread crust, tender spiced apples, and golden oat crumble create a perfect bite every time. The drizzle of salted caramel on top adds a rich finish that makes them impossible to resist.
If you tried this recipe, leave a comment and a star rating to let others know how it turned out. Share your photos or favorite variations on Pinterest or Facebook.
Did you make any changes or try a gluten-free or nut-free version? Let us know below. We’d love to hear how you made these salted caramel apple bars your own.
High-Protein Nutrition Specialist and Wellness Advocate with over a decade of experience.
My human-first approach blends science-backed guidance with real-life empathy, shaped by my own journey through fatigue and muscle loss. Today, I help people reclaim strength, energy, and confidence through high-protein nutrition that’s both practical and empowering.
- Anne Newgenthttps://goldfoodie.com/author/anne-newgent/
- Anne Newgenthttps://goldfoodie.com/author/anne-newgent/
- Anne Newgenthttps://goldfoodie.com/author/anne-newgent/
- Anne Newgenthttps://goldfoodie.com/author/anne-newgent/
