Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the scent of cinnamon and baked apples wafted through my kitchen, I knew I had struck gold with these Healthy Gluten-Free Apple Pie Bars with Salted Peanut Butter Caramel. Encouraging indulgence without the guilt, these bars combine a delicate oat crumble with the sweet-tart pops of Honeycrisp apples. They’re not just a delicious treat; they’re a true crowd-pleaser that’s vegan-friendly and perfect for any time of day, whether served as dessert or a grab-and-go breakfast. Plus, with a drizzle of silky salted peanut butter caramel, you’ll relish every bite of the enticing sweet and salty contrast. Are you ready to elevate your fall baking game with these mouthwatering bars? Why are these apple pie bars special? Guilt-Free Indulgence: With gluten-free and vegan-friendly ingredients, these bars allow you to savor a classic dessert without sacrificing your dietary needs. Flavor Explosion: The combination of warm cinnamon, sweet Honeycrisp apples, and rich salted peanut butter caramel will leave your taste buds dancing. Easy to Make: This straightforward recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels, making it an ideal project for a cozy afternoon. Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a delightful dessert, a comforting breakfast with coffee, or a sweet snack anytime. Perfect for Sharing: These apple pie bars are sure to impress friends and family at gatherings, just like my Homemade Butter Chicken or Honey Butter Chicken. Get ready to indulge in these wholesome apple pie bars that will elevate any occasion! Apple Pie Bars with Salted Peanut Butter Caramel Ingredients For the Crust and Topping Gluten Free Oat Flour – Provides structure; substitute with all-purpose flour if not gluten-sensitive. Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats – Adds texture and chewiness; ensure they’re gluten-free if needed. Brown Sugar – Offers sweetness and moisture; coconut sugar is a healthier alternative. Ground Cinnamon – Enhances flavor; essential for a warm, cozy taste. Baking Soda – Helps the bars rise and achieve a light texture. Salt – Balances sweetness; don’t skip this crucial ingredient. Butter (or Vegan Buttery Stick) – Adds moisture and richness; substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option. Vanilla Extract – Provides depth of flavor; always opt for pure extract if possible. For the Apple Filling Honeycrisp Apples – The star ingredient, offering sweetness and texture; Granny Smith can be used for a tart bite. Maple Syrup – Acts as a natural sweetener for the filling; honey can be an alternative. Cornstarch or Arrowroot Starch – Thickens the apple filling; necessary for ideal texture. Allspice & Nutmeg – Adds depth to the cinnamon flavor, enhancing overall warmth. For the Salted Peanut Butter Caramel Peanut Butter – For the caramel drizzle; creamy works best. Substitute with almond butter for nut-free versions. Coconut Oil – Used in the caramel for a smooth texture and healthy fat. Sea Salt – Enhances flavor and rounds out the sweetness of the caramel. Prepare to immerse yourself in the delightful baking experience of these Apple Pie Bars with Salted Peanut Butter Caramel! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Pie Bars with Salted Peanut Butter Caramel Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly spray the parchment with nonstick spray to ensure easy removal of your delicious apple pie bars once baked. Step 2: Make the Crumble Mixture In a large mixing bowl, combine gluten-free oat flour, old-fashioned rolled oats, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. Use a fork to mix the dry ingredients thoroughly, avoiding any lumps. Then, pour in the melted butter and vanilla extract, stirring until the mixture becomes crumbly and holds together when squeezed. Step 3: Create the Base Layer Press about 1 2/3 cups of the crumble mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Use the back of a measuring cup or your fingers to ensure it’s compact and smooth. Place the remaining crumble in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the apple filling, which will add texture to your apple pie bars. Step 4: Cook the Apples In a skillet over medium heat, melt a tablespoon of butter. Add your thinly sliced Honeycrisp apples and sauté for about 5-7 minutes or until softened. Stir in maple syrup, ground cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, cooking until the mixture thickens and becomes bubbly, about 2-3 minutes. Step 5: Assemble the Bars Pour the warm apple filling evenly over the crumb base in your prepared pan, spreading it gently to cover the entire layer. Then, sprinkle the chilled crumble mixture generously on top, ensuring an even coating over the apple filling for a perfect texture in your apple pie bars. Step 6: Bake to Perfection Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Keep an eye on the edges to avoid over-baking, as you want the bars to remain moist and chewy inside. Step 7: Cool Completely Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature. This step is crucial for the apple pie bars to set properly and makes cutting them into squares much easier. Step 8: Prepare the Salted Peanut Butter Caramel In a small saucepan, combine peanut butter, maple syrup, coconut oil, and a sprinkle of sea salt over low heat. Stir continuously until the mixture is warm and smooth, creating a luscious caramel that’s perfect for drizzling once your apple pie bars have cooled completely. Step 9: Drizzle and Slice Once cooled, drizzle the salted peanut butter caramel generously over the top of your bars. Allow it to set slightly before slicing the apple pie bars into 16 squares. The sweet and salty contrast will make each bite irresistible! Storage Tips for Apple Pie Bars with Salted Peanut Butter Caramel Room Temperature: Store bars in a covered container at room temperature for up to 2 days for the best texture and flavor. Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate the apple pie bars in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Enjoy them cold or warm them briefly in the microwave. Freezer: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before enjoying. Reheating: To reheat, place in the microwave for 15-20 seconds until warm, or pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes for that fresh-baked taste. Expert Tips for Apple Pie Bars Mixing Method: Use a fork to blend dry ingredients. This prevents clumps and ensures an even crumble in your apple pie bars. Apple Preparation: Thinly slice Honeycrisp apples for uniform cooking. This helps create a perfectly tender filling for your bars. Cooling Time: Allow the baked bars to cool completely before slicing. This step is crucial to maintain their structure and prevent them from falling apart. Baking Adjustment: Keep an eye on your baking time as it may vary based on your oven’s calibration. A toothpick should come out clean when the bars are done. Caramel Consistency: Drizzle the salted peanut butter caramel generously and let it set slightly before serving. This enhances the overall flavor of your apple pie bars. Make Ahead Options These Apple Pie Bars with Salted Peanut Butter Caramel are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the crumb mixture and refrigerate it for up to 3 days in advance, ensuring the oats remain fresh and the flavors meld beautifully. Additionally, the apple filling can be cooked ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours to save time. Just reheat the filling before assembling the bars. To maintain quality, let the assembled bars cool completely before covering and refrigerating them for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply drizzle with the salted peanut butter caramel, and enjoy the comforting flavors without the stress of last-minute baking! What to Serve with Apple Pie Bars with Salted Peanut Butter Caramel As the aroma of warm cinnamon delights your senses, you’ll want the perfect accompaniments to make this treat a standout sensation. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a delightful contrast to warm apple pie bars. The cold creaminess elevates the sweet and salty caramel. Honey Drizzled Yogurt: Tart yogurt drizzled with honey complements the pie bars beautifully, adding a refreshing tang. It’s a perfect light pairing for brunch or dessert. Spiced Chai Latte: The warm spices in a chai latte echo the flavors of the bars, making for a comforting drink pairing. Curl up with this blissful combination on cooler days. Coffee or Espresso: A strong cup of coffee enhances the flavors in the apple pie bars, balancing sweetness with its rich bitterness. Enjoy this classic combo for a delightful morning boost! Crisp Green Salad: A light, crisp salad with fresh greens and a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterpoint to the sweet bars. It’s an excellent way to balance your dessert spread. Caramel Drizzle: Drizzling additional salted caramel over the top before serving intensifies the indulgence. Let everyone enjoy an additional layer of sweet and salty goodness! These pairings will elevate your Apple Pie Bars with Salted Peanut Butter Caramel, creating a feast that’s not to be missed! Apple Pie Bars with Salted Peanut Butter Caramel Variations Feel free to play around with these fun twists on the classic apple pie bars, enhancing flavors and accommodating dietary needs. Nut-Free Option: Substitute almond butter for peanut butter to ensure a nut-free treat while still enjoying that creamy caramel richness. Fruit Variety: Swap Honeycrisp apples for different varieties like Fuji or Gala for a sweeter profile, or opt for Granny Smith for a tart contrast. Extra Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans into the apple filling for delightful texture and a nutty surprise that complements the sweetness beautifully. Sweetener Swap: Use agave nectar instead of maple syrup for a lighter touch of sweetness that beautifully blends with the other flavors. Chocolate Drizzle: For a dessert twist, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the bars instead of caramel to satisfy your sweet tooth with a rich flavor. Spice it Up: Incorporate a dash of cayenne pepper or ginger into the apple filling for a surprising kick, creating a warm and cozy profile that awakens the senses. Dried Fruit Addition: Mix in some chopped dried cranberries or raisins for an unexpected burst of sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor experience. Serving Pairing: Serve warm alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or yogurt for a luscious dessert experience reminiscent of a classic Caramel Peach Dump. These variations promise to deliver a delightful twist to your apple pie bars, making them perfect for any gathering or cozy night in. Apple Pie Bars with Salted Peanut Butter Caramel Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right apples for this recipe? Absolutely! For this recipe, Honeycrisp apples are preferred due to their sweet-tart balance and firmness. However, if you’re looking for a tart flavor, Granny Smith apples are also a great choice. The key is to select apples that are firm and free of any dark spots or bruising. What is the best way to store leftover apple pie bars? Very! To keep your apple pie bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to let them cool completely before placing them in the fridge to maintain their texture. When ready to enjoy, you can eat them cold or warm them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. Can I freeze apple pie bars? Absolutely! You can wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge or warm them directly from the freezer for a delicious treat. What should I do if my caramel sauce is too thick? Don’t worry! If your salted peanut butter caramel turns out too thick, just add a splash of coconut oil or a bit of warm water to loosen it up. Stir until it’s at your desired consistency for drizzling. A gentle heat can also help to get it smooth again. Are there any allergens I should consider with this recipe? Yes! While the recipe is vegan-friendly, it does include peanut butter, which can be an allergen for some. If you’re making these for someone with nut allergies, I recommend substituting the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or almond butter (if allergies allow) to keep that creamy texture without any nut ingredients. What adjustments can I make for a different flavor profile? Very! Feel free to experiment with different types of apples, such as Fuji or Gala, for varied sweetness and texture. You can also add nuts for extra crunch or dried cranberries for an added pop of flavor. Spice lovers might enjoy increasing the amounts of allspice or nutmeg for a more pronounced warmth! Sweet Apple Pie Bars with Salted Peanut Butter Caramel Bliss Healthy Gluten-Free Apple Pie Bars with Salted Peanut Butter Caramel offer a guilt-free indulgence with a delightful sweet and salty contrast. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 35 minutes minsCooling Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins Servings: 16 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 180 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Crust and Topping1 cup Gluten Free Oat Flour Substitute with all-purpose flour if not gluten-sensitive.1 cup Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats Ensure they’re gluten-free if needed.1/2 cup Brown Sugar Coconut sugar is a healthier alternative.1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon Essential for a warm, cozy taste.1 teaspoon Baking Soda Helps the bars rise.1/4 teaspoon Salt Don’t skip this crucial ingredient.1/2 cup Butter (or Vegan Buttery Stick) Substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Always opt for pure extract if possible.For the Apple Filling4 cups Honeycrisp Apples Granny Smith can be used for a tart bite.1/4 cup Maple Syrup Honey can be an alternative.2 tablespoons Cornstarch or Arrowroot Starch Necessary for ideal texture.1/2 teaspoon Allspice1/4 teaspoon NutmegFor the Salted Peanut Butter Caramel1/2 cup Peanut Butter Creamy works best; use almond butter for nut-free versions.2 tablespoons Coconut Oil For a smooth texture.1/4 teaspoon Sea Salt Enhances flavor. Equipment 8x8 inch baking panSkilletMixing BowlParchment Paper Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly spray it with nonstick spray.In a large mixing bowl, combine gluten-free oat flour, old-fashioned rolled oats, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. Mix thoroughly and add melted butter and vanilla extract until crumbly.Press about 1 2/3 cups of the crumble mixture into the bottom of your prepared pan. Chill the remaining crumble mixture in the refrigerator.Sauté thinly sliced Honeycrisp apples in a skillet with butter for 5-7 minutes. Add maple syrup, ground cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, cooking until thickened.Spread the warm apple filling over the crumb base in your pan and sprinkle the chilled crumble on top.Bake for 30-35 minutes until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.Cool completely at room temperature before cutting into squares.Combine peanut butter, maple syrup, coconut oil, and sea salt in a saucepan over low heat. Stir until smooth.Drizzle the salted peanut butter caramel over the top of the bars and let it set before slicing into 16 squares. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 23gProtein: 4gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 8mgSodium: 90mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 2gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 2IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 6mg NotesStore bars in a covered container for up to 2 days at room temperature or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Freeze individual bars for up to 3 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
