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To make salted caramel apple pie bars, you need a few key ingredients. First, gather 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. You will also need 1 cup of cold, cubed unsalted butter. For the filling, use 4 medium apples, 1/4 cup of light brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Don’t forget 1/2 cup of salted caramel sauce and sea salt flakes for topping.

Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

Indulge in the deliciousness of Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars, a perfect dessert treat for any occasion! This easy recipe combines sweet apples and rich caramel with a touch of sea salt for a delightful twist. Follow simple steps to create these irresistible bars that will wow your friends and family. Plus, discover tips for customizing, serving, and storing!

Ingredients
  

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

4 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and diced

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)

1/2 cup salted caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Sea salt flakes, for topping

Instructions
 

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

    Make the crust: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter into the mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

      Press the crust into the bottom of the prepared baking dish evenly. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.

        Prep the apple filling: In a separate bowl, mix the diced apples with lemon juice, brown sugar, and cinnamon. If using, fold in the chopped pecans. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

          Assemble the bars: Pour the apple mixture over the pre-baked crust, spreading it evenly. Drizzle half of the salted caramel sauce over the apples.

            Make the topping: In a small bowl, combine the remaining flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in the butter until crumbly. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the apples and caramel.

              Bake: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.

                Cool and Cut: Allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 20-30 minutes. Drizzle with the remaining salted caramel sauce, sprinkle a few sea salt flakes on top, and slice into bars.

                  Serve: For best results, serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.

                    Prep Time: 10 mins | Total Time: 1 hr | Servings: 16 bars

                      - Presentation Tips: Serve these bars on a rustic wooden board, garnished with extra apple slices and a drizzle of caramel.