How to Make Caramel Apple Pie Bars with Crumb Topping

Posted on February 8, 2026

There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of apples, warm spices, and buttery crust drifting through the kitchen. Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars capture that feeling perfectly, making them an ideal treat for crisp autumn afternoons, holiday gatherings, or cozy weekends at home. These bars were inspired by classic apple pie traditions, where families would gather around the table to enjoy a dessert that felt both simple and special. By transforming the beloved pie into easy-to-slice bars, this recipe brings all the nostalgic flavors you love into a more shareable, fuss-free format. Each bite offers layers of tender shortbread crust, cinnamon-spiced apples, and a rich caramel finish balanced with just the right touch of salt.

Why You’ll Love These Apple Pie Bars

These bars strike the perfect balance between indulgent and approachable. The buttery base is sturdy yet tender, the apple filling is soft and fragrant, and the caramel topping adds a luxurious sweetness without overpowering the fruit. Unlike traditional pies, these bars are easy to transport, cut cleanly, and serve at gatherings. They’re equally suited for bake sales, family celebrations, or a quiet moment with a cup of tea. The layered structure ensures every slice has a bit of everything, making them consistently delicious from edge to center.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Shortbread Crust

2 ½ cups (315 g) all-purpose flour
¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
½ teaspoon fine salt

For the Apple Filling

6 cups (about 750 g) apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
⅔ cup (135 g) brown sugar
2 tablespoons (15 g) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

For the Crumble Topping

1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
½ cup (100 g) brown sugar
½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, melted

For the Salted Caramel Drizzle

1 cup (240 g) caramel sauce
½ teaspoon flaky sea salt

How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

1. Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press firmly into the prepared pan to form an even base. Bake for 15 minutes, just until lightly golden.

2. Make the Apple Filling

In a separate bowl, toss the sliced apples with brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Mix until the apples are evenly coated and glossy.

3. Assemble the Layers

Spread the apple mixture evenly over the warm crust. In another bowl, stir together flour, brown sugar, and melted butter until crumbly. Sprinkle this topping generously over the apples.

4. Bake to Perfection

Return the pan to the oven and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the apples are tender. Let the bars cool completely in the pan.

5. Add the Finishing Touch

Once cooled, drizzle the caramel sauce over the bars and sprinkle with flaky sea salt. Lift from the pan, slice into squares, and serve.

Tips for the Best Results

Choose apples that hold their shape when baked, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.
Let the bars cool fully before slicing to ensure clean edges.
Adjust the salt level to taste; a little goes a long way in balancing the sweetness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?

Yes, you can experiment with various apple varieties, but it’s best to choose ones that maintain their structure during baking. Apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn offer a pleasant balance of sweetness and tartness. Mixing two varieties can also enhance flavor complexity, giving the filling more depth without becoming mushy.

How should I store Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars?

These bars store well at room temperature for up to two days when kept in an airtight container. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to five days. If chilled, allow the bars to come to room temperature before serving so the crust softens and the flavors shine.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely. These bars are an excellent make-ahead dessert. You can bake them a day in advance and add the caramel drizzle just before serving. This makes them perfect for gatherings, as the flavors develop even more overnight.

Is it possible to freeze these apple pie bars?

Yes, these bars freeze beautifully. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before enjoying.

Final Thoughts

Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars are more than just a dessert; they’re a celebration of comforting flavors that define the fall season. The combination of buttery crust, spiced apples, and rich caramel creates a dessert that feels familiar yet elevated. Whether you’re baking for a festive occasion or simply treating yourself, these bars deliver consistent, crowd-pleasing results. Their ease of preparation makes them accessible to home bakers of all skill levels, while their layered presentation gives them a bakery-style appeal. What truly sets these bars apart is their versatility. They can be dressed up with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoyed on their own as a simple afternoon indulgence. Sharing them with family and friends often sparks conversations about favorite seasonal traditions and cherished memories tied to apple desserts. Baking these bars is a reminder that some of the best recipes are those that bring people together through warmth, aroma, and taste. Once you try them, they’re bound to become a staple in your seasonal baking rotation. Print