Irresistible Salted Caramel Apple Bars for Fall

Name: Irresistible Salted Caramel Apple Bars for Fall
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup rolled oats; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 3 medium apples, peeled and diced; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 cup granulated sugar; 6 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon sea salt

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Indulge in the warm flavors of fall with these irresistible salted caramel apple bars. Perfectly balanced with sweet and salty notes, they are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Created by

Imogen Price

Last updated on 2025-12-18T13:14:29.326Z

Fall is the perfect season for warm desserts, and these salted caramel apple bars bring together the rich flavors of caramel and the tartness of apples. Each bite is a delightful combination of textures and tastes that will remind you of cozy evenings.

        Why You'll Love These Bars
        Decadent salted caramel that complements the tart apples
Soft and chewy texture that melts in your mouth
Ideal for sharing at fall gatherings or enjoying on a chilly day

      

The Perfect Fall Treat

As the leaves change color and the air turns crisp, there's nothing quite like enjoying a delicious dessert that embodies the essence of fall. These salted caramel apple bars are the perfect treat to celebrate the season. The combination of sweet, juicy apples and rich caramel creates a comforting dessert that evokes cozy memories of autumn gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply indulging on a chilly evening, these bars will warm your heart and satisfy your sweet tooth.

The beauty of these apple bars lies in their versatility. They can be served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra touch of indulgence, or enjoyed at room temperature for a delightful snack. Their soft and chewy texture makes them easy to slice and share with friends and family. With each bite, you’ll experience the delightful balance of flavors that makes these bars a fall favorite.

Ingredients That Shine

The ingredients in these salted caramel apple bars are simple yet incredibly flavorful. Fresh apples, preferably a mix of tart and sweet varieties, are the star of the filling, offering a burst of flavor that complements the rich caramel. The oats and brown sugar in the base add a delightful crunch and depth, while the salted caramel ties the entire dessert together with its decadent sweetness and savory finish.

Using high-quality ingredients is key to achieving the best flavor in your bars. Opt for unsalted butter to control the saltiness, and don’t skimp on the caramel sauce. Making your own salted caramel ensures that it’s perfectly smooth and allows you to adjust the salt to your liking. The combination of these carefully chosen ingredients will elevate your dessert, ensuring that it impresses everyone at your next gathering.

Tips for Success

To ensure your salted caramel apple bars turn out perfectly, be sure to follow the recipe measurements closely. Baking is a science, and precision can greatly affect the final result. Make sure your apples are diced evenly for consistent cooking, and don’t be afraid to adjust the spices to suit your taste. A dash more cinnamon can enhance the fall flavors, making the bars even more inviting.

Letting the bars cool completely before slicing is crucial. This allows the filling to set properly, making it easier to cut clean bars without them falling apart. You can even refrigerate the bars for a short time if you’re in a hurry. Once cooled, they can be stored in an airtight container, making them a convenient treat to have on hand for unexpected guests or as a delightful addition to your lunchbox.

Ingredients

For the Base and Topping

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Filling

3 medium apples, peeled and diced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon

For the Salted Caramel

1 cup granulated sugar
6 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon sea salt

Make sure to gather all your ingredients before starting for a smooth preparation process.

Instructions

Prepare the Base

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, oats, brown sugar, granulated sugar, melted butter, cinnamon, and salt until crumbly. Press half of the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9x9 inch baking dish.

Make the Filling

In another bowl, toss the diced apples with lemon juice, granulated sugar, and cinnamon. Spread the apple mixture evenly over the crust in the baking dish.

Prepare the Salted Caramel

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the granulated sugar, stirring constantly until it turns a deep amber color. Remove from heat and carefully add the butter and cream, stirring until smooth. Stir in the sea salt, then pour the caramel over the apple layer.

Top and Bake

Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over the caramel. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until golden brown. Let it cool completely before slicing into bars.

Serve these delicious bars at room temperature or warmed slightly for an extra treat!

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, use a mix of sweet and tart apples. You can also add chopped nuts for added crunch.

Serving Suggestions

These salted caramel apple bars are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. For a warm dessert, serve them straight from the oven with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. This combination creates a comforting dessert that is perfect for chilly evenings. Alternatively, for a more casual approach, cut the bars into smaller squares and present them on a platter for guests to grab and enjoy.

You can also elevate the presentation by drizzling extra salted caramel over the top before serving. This adds a beautiful finish and extra flavor that will entice anyone who lays eyes on them. Consider adding a sprinkle of chopped nuts or a pinch of sea salt on top for added texture and a gourmet touch.

Storing and Freezing

If you find yourself with leftovers (though we doubt that will be the case!), storing your salted caramel apple bars is easy. Simply place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigeration is an option, though it may alter the texture slightly. When stored in the fridge, they can last up to a week.

For longer storage, consider freezing the bars. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat them gently in the oven for that freshly baked taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of apple?

Yes, feel free to use any apples you prefer, such as Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for sweetness.

→ How should I store these bars?

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I make the salted caramel ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the salted caramel a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just warm it slightly before using.

→ Is it possible to make these gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.