Name: Delicious Apple Pie Bars with Salted Peanut Butter Caramel Treats
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Gluten-Free Oat Flour; 1 cup Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats; 1/2 cup Brown Sugar (or coconut sugar as substitute); 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon; 1/2 tsp Baking Soda; 1/4 tsp Salt; 1/3 cup Butter (or Vegan Butter) (melted); 1 tsp Vanilla Extract; 3 cups Honeycrisp Apples (thinly sliced); 1/4 cup Pure Maple Syrup (or honey/agave as substitutes); 2 tbsp Cornstarch or Arrowroot Starch; 1/2 cup Peanut Butter (or almond/sunflower seed butter as substitutes); 2 tbsp Coconut Oil; 1/4 tsp Sea Salt

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As the leaves begin to turn and that crisp autumn air settles in, the warm notes of cinnamon will have you dreaming of apple orchards. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Healthy Apple Pie Bars with Salted Peanut Butter Caramel—a delightful twist on the classic dessert that’s both gluten-free and vegan-friendly. Not only are these bars easy to make, but they also double as a guilt-free breakfast treat or a wholesome snack for those extra apple-filled days. With a crunchy oat crumble topping and a creamy, salted peanut butter drizzle, each bite balances sweetness and nutty flavor perfectly. Are you ready to indulge in a healthier slice of fall? Let’s get baking!

Why are these apple pie bars irresistible?

Flavor Explosion: The sweetness of Honeycrisp apples combined with a creamy, salted peanut butter caramel creates a dessert that’s utterly addictive.

Guilt-Free Indulgence: These bars are gluten-free and vegan-friendly, making them a smart choice for those craving a healthier treat.

Easy to Make: With a straightforward recipe that requires minimal prep, you can whip these up quickly, leaving you more time to enjoy!

Versatile Enjoyment: Whether as a cozy dessert or a grab-and-go snack, they fit seamlessly into any part of your day. Don’t forget to pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special dessert experience!

Ready to explore more? Try making these Apple Zucchini Bread for an equally delightful treat!

Apple Pie Bars Ingredients

For the Base and Topping

Gluten-Free Oat Flour – Provides structure and is the primary base ingredient; can substitute with all-purpose flour if gluten is not a concern.
Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats – Adds texture and chewiness to the crumble topping; ensure oats are gluten-free if necessary.
Brown Sugar – Sweetness that enhances the flavor of the bars; coconut sugar is a possible substitute, although it may slightly affect crumble quality.
Ground Cinnamon – An aromatic spice that infuses warmth into the filling, making the bars feel cozy and inviting.
Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent to help the bars rise for a light texture.
Salt – Enhances the overall flavor and balances sweetness, ensuring every bite is satisfying.
Butter (or Vegan Butter) – Provides moisture and richness to the crumble and filling; choose vegan butter for a plant-based option.
Vanilla Extract – Serves as an aromatic flavor enhancer, elevating the overall taste of the bars.

For the Apple Filling

Honeycrisp Apples – Known for their tender sweetness and slight tartness, they make an ideal filling; other apple varieties may be used but can affect taste and texture.
Pure Maple Syrup – A natural sweetener for the apple filling; can substitute with honey or agave syrup if desired.
Cornstarch or Arrowroot Starch – Used to thicken the apple mixture, ensuring a stable filling when baked; vital for maintaining the bars’ structure.

For the Salted Peanut Butter Caramel

Peanut Butter – The main component of the caramel drizzle, providing rich creaminess; almond or sunflower seed butter can be used for nut allergies.
Coconut Oil – Adds richness and a slight coconut flavor to the caramel, making it irresistible.
Sea Salt – Enhances the flavor of peanut butter and caramel, creating a perfect balance of sweet and salty in these apple pie bars.

These Apple Pie Bars with Salted Peanut Butter Caramel are not just a sweet treat, but a deliciously crafted experience waiting to be enjoyed!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Healthy Apple Pie Bars with Salted Peanut Butter Caramel

Step 1: Prep the Oven & Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms, take an 8×8 inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang to easily lift the bars later. Lightly spray the parchment with cooking spray to prevent any sticking, ensuring your Healthy Apple Pie Bars with Salted Peanut Butter Caramel come out perfectly.

Step 2: Make Base and Topping
In a large mixing bowl, combine the gluten-free oat flour, old-fashioned rolled oats, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. Stir in melted butter and vanilla extract until the mixture becomes crumbly. Reserve about one cup of this mixture for topping later. Firmly press the remaining crumble mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan, creating an even layer that will form the base of your delicious apple pie bars.

Step 3: Prepare Apple Filling
In a skillet, melt a bit of butter over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced Honeycrisp apples, pure maple syrup, ground cinnamon, allspice, and nutmeg. Cook the apple mixture for about 5 to 7 minutes until the apples soften and become fragrant. Stir in cornstarch and a hint of vanilla extract to improve the thickness, letting it simmer for another couple of minutes until your filling is cohesive and thickened.

Step 4: Assemble Bars
Once the apple filling is ready, pour it evenly over the crust you prepared earlier. Sprinkle the reserved crumble mixture generously on top of the apple filling, creating a beautiful golden layer that will bake into a delicious topping. Place the assembled bars into the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the top is golden brown and your kitchen is filled with the irresistible aroma of apple pie.

Step 5: Make Caramel
While the bars are baking, prepare the salted peanut butter caramel. In a medium bowl, mix together the peanut butter, pure maple syrup, coconut oil, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Heat the mixture in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds until warm and runny, then stir well to combine. Once your Healthy Apple Pie Bars have cooled, drizzle this creamy caramel over the top for an indulgent finish.

Step 6: Cool & Serve
After baking, remove the apple pie bars from the oven and let them cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes. This allows the bars to set properly. Once cooled, use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out of the pan and place on a cutting board. Cut into squares and serve at room temperature or warm. Perfect for an afternoon treat or a wholesome dessert, complement these bars with your favorite ice cream or whipped cream!

What to Serve with Healthy Apple Pie Bars with Salted Peanut Butter Caramel

The cozy flavors of fall invite delightful pairings that will elevate every bite of this scrumptious treat.

Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The rich, creamy texture melds beautifully with the warm apple flavors, providing an indulgent contrast.
Fresh Whipped Cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream adds a light, airy touch that perfectly balances the dense oat crumble.
Cinnamon Spiced Tea: This warm beverage accentuates the bars’ flavors, creating a comforting combination perfect for cool evenings.
Caramel Drizzle: Enhance the experience by serving with extra peanut butter caramel on the side for those who can’t get enough of that creamy sweetness.
Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some walnuts or pecans over the bars for added crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the apples beautifully.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing side of mixed seasonal fruits offers a crisp contrast that brightens up the dessert.
Hot Apple Cider: This classic fall drink pairs wonderfully with your bars, inviting warmth and nostalgia to every gathering.
Dark Chocolate Squares: A small piece of dark chocolate alongside adds a sophisticated touch, enhancing the caramel’s sweetness with its richness.
Ginger Tea: The warmth and spice of ginger tea provide a lovely contrast to the sweetness of the bars, making for a soothing conclusion to your meal.

Expert Tips for Apple Pie Bars

Slice Apples Thinly: Ensure apples are sliced thinly for optimal cooking and a soft texture, allowing them to blend nicely with the crumble.
Don’t Skip the Caramel: The salted peanut butter caramel is essential; it elevates the entire dessert and adds a creamy richness to the apple pie bars.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh Honeycrisp apples yield the best flavor and texture, enhancing the overall quality of your delicious bars.
Check Baking Time: Every oven is different; watch the bars closely to ensure the crumble topping turns golden but doesn’t burn, achieving the perfect bake.
Store Properly: Keep the apple pie bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week for continued freshness, easy snacking, and enjoyment!

How to Store and Freeze Apple Pie Bars with Salted Peanut Butter Caramel

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week to maintain freshness and flavor; these apple pie bars stay delicious cold or at room temperature.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the bars tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Thawing: To enjoy frozen bars, simply thaw in the fridge overnight or warm them gently in the microwave for a few seconds for a cozy treat.

Reheating: If preferred warm, reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through; enjoy with that luscious salted peanut butter caramel drizzle!

Apple Pie Bars with Salted Peanut Butter Caramel Variations

Customize your healthy apple pie bars to fit your taste and dietary preferences with these creative twists.

Nut-Free: Use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter for a nut-free caramel drizzle. It’s equally creamy and delicious!
This small change opens up these delightful bars to anyone with nut allergies. Enjoying these treats becomes accessible for all!
Lower Sugar: Reduce the maple syrup used in the filling and caramel to lower the overall sugar content without sacrificing flavor.
Your apple pie bars can still be sweet while being kinder to your waistline! Who says healthy can’t be delicious?
Extra Crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, into the crumble topping for delightful texture and added flavor.
This twist not only adds a satisfying crunch but also infuses the bars with nutritional goodness. Your family will love the surprise!
Fruit Medley: Mix diced pears or cranberries into the apple filling for an exciting flavor combination.
Just imagine the burst of different fruit flavors mingling together in every bite—it’s a game-changer for your dessert!
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves to the cinnamon in the filling for a warm, spiced flavor that screams fall.
This warming addition elevates the entire dessert and creates a cozy vibe perfect for chilly evenings!
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the caramel for an indulgent twist. It pairs beautifully with the salty sweetness!
chocolate lovers will rejoice with this rich addition. After all, why not add a touch of decadence to your healthy dessert?
Vegan Option: Ensure all ingredients, especially the butter and caramel, are vegan-friendly by substituting with plant-based alternatives.
Many friends and family members will be thankful to have a delightful dessert that fits their lifestyle.

Looking for more delicious recipes? You’d love my take on Honey Butter Chicken or the rich flavors of Garlic Butter Steak to round out your meals!

Make Ahead Options

These Healthy Apple Pie Bars with Salted Peanut Butter Caramel are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the base and topping mixture up to 24 hours in advance by storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, the apple filling can be cooked and refrigerated for 3 days, ensuring all flavors meld beautifully. When ready to bake, just layer the chilled apple filling over the base, sprinkle with the reserved crumble, and proceed with baking. To maintain the bars’ quality, let them cool completely before cutting and drizzling with peanut butter caramel. You’ll have delicious bars ready to enjoy any time!

Apple Pie Bars with Salted Peanut Butter Caramel Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best apples for my pie bars?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using Honeycrisp apples as they are sweet with a slight tartness that complements the dish perfectly. You can also try Granny Smith for a tarter bite or Gala for extra sweetness, but keep in mind that different varieties will yield varying flavors and textures in the final product.

How should I store my apple pie bars?
To maintain freshness, store your Apple Pie Bars with Salted Peanut Butter Caramel in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. This keeps them deliciously moist and full of flavor. These bars can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, making them a handy snack for any time of day!

Can I freeze these apple pie bars?
Very! For longer storage, wrap each bar tightly in foil or plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. These bars can be successfully frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy them later, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight or warm them gently in the microwave for a few seconds.

What if my bars come out too crumbly?
If your apple pie bars turn out crumbly, it could be due to not enough binding agents or overbaking. Make sure you are measuring your ingredients accurately, especially the butter and wet ingredients. If you find they’re still too crumbly, consider adding a bit more melted butter or a splash of plant-based milk to help bind them together.

Are these apple pie bars safe for my pets or those with nut allergies?
Oh, that’s a great consideration! They are not safe for pets, especially due to the peanut butter in the caramel. For those with nut allergies, you can substitute the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or pumpkin seed butter for a similar creamy texture without the nuts. Always check your ingredients to ensure they are allergy-friendly for your guests!

How can I make these bars lower in sugar?
You can reduce the sugar content by cutting back on the pure maple syrup used in the apple filling. Try using only half the amount specified or substituting with a low-calorie sweetener. Additionally, opt for unsweetened applesauce in place of maple syrup to maintain moisture while cutting back on sugar.