Delicious Easy Caramel Apple Pie Bars topped with caramel drizzle and apples

Easy Caramel Apple Pie Bars

ByCasey Monroe

why make this recipe

Easy Caramel Apple Pie Bars are a delightful treat that combines the classic flavors of apple pie with the simplicity of bars. They are perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a sweet treat at home. With a buttery crust, sweet and spiced apples, and a crumbly topping, these bars are sure to please everyone. Plus, they’re easy to make and can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

how to make Easy Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Ingredients:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup unsalted butter
  • 3/4 cup white sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 5 Granny Smith apples, peeled and diced
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup white sugar
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon grated nutmeg
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch, or as needed

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
  2. Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  3. In a food processor, combine flour, 1 cup butter, 3/4 cup white sugar, egg, baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Pulse until it crumbles and can be formed into dough when pinched.
  4. Pour 3/4 of the dough into the prepared pan. Press down with your hands until the crust is even and well-packed.
  5. Melt 3 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced apples, brown sugar, 1/2 cup white sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Cook and stir until the apples soften, about 5 minutes.
  6. Stir in cornstarch, mixing well. Add more cornstarch if needed until the liquid thickens.
  7. Pour the caramel-apple mixture over the crust and smooth it with a spatula until even.
  8. Crumble the remaining dough on top.
  9. Bake in the preheated oven until the top is golden brown, about 30 to 40 minutes.
  10. Let cool for 10 minutes, then cut into bars.

Tips:

If you don’t have a food processor, you can use a hand beater to combine the crust ingredients. Drizzling with a homemade salted caramel sauce or using store-bought caramel sauce adds a delicious touch.

how to serve Easy Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Serve these bars warm or at room temperature, either plain or drizzled with caramel sauce. They make a great dessert and can also be enjoyed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

how to store Easy Caramel Apple Pie Bars

You can store these bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. Just remember to bring them to room temperature before serving for the best taste.

tips to make Easy Caramel Apple Pie Bars

  • Use Granny Smith apples for their tartness, which complements the sweetness of the sugar.
  • Feel free to mix in some chopped nuts for added texture.
  • Make sure not to overbake; watch for a golden-brown top to keep the bars tender.

variation

You can add dried cranberries or raisins for an extra layer of flavor. Alternatively, try using different types of apples for variety.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of apple?
Yes, while Granny Smith apples are recommended for their tart flavor, you can use any variety of apple you like.

2. Can I freeze these bars?
Yes, you can freeze the bars for up to 3 months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.

3. How can I make them gluten-free?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour mix. Make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.