Pin it A decadent treat featuring layers of crisp spiced apples, buttery biscuit base, crunchy pretzels, and gooey caramel, perfect for autumn gatherings or a festive snack.
I first made these bars for my family after a weekend trip to the orchard. Their blend of sweet and spicy flavors was an instant hit, and they've become our go-to fall dessert ever since.
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Ingredients
- Biscuit Base: 1 1/2 cups (180 g) all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter melted, 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar, 1/2 tsp salt
- Apple Layer: 3 medium tart apples peeled cored and diced, 2 tbsp lemon juice, 1/4 cup (50 g) brown sugar, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg, 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to heat preference), 1 tbsp cornstarch
- Pretzel & Caramel Topping: 1 cup (60 g) mini salted pretzels roughly chopped, 3/4 cup (180 ml) caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade), 1/4 tsp flaky sea salt
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Instructions
- Prepare the Pan:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch (20x20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- Biscuit Base:
- In a medium bowl, mix flour, melted butter, sugar, and salt until a crumbly dough forms. Press evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the biscuit base.
- Bake the Base:
- Bake the base for 12–14 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
- Apple Layer:
- While the base bakes, toss diced apples with lemon juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cayenne pepper, and cornstarch in a bowl until well coated.
- Assemble Layers:
- Spread the apple mixture over the biscuit base in an even layer. Sprinkle chopped pretzels evenly over the apples. Drizzle caramel sauce generously over the pretzel and apple layer. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
- Bake Bars:
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for 20–22 minutes until the caramel is bubbling and the apples are tender.
- Cool & Serve:
- Allow to cool completely in the pan before lifting out and cutting into bars.
Pin it The first time I shared these bars at our family bonfire, everyone asked for seconds. Now it's a ritual every autumn!
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Required Tools
8x8-inch (20x20 cm) baking pan, mixing bowls, parchment paper, sharp knife
Allergen Information
Recipe contains wheat and dairy. If sensitive, use gluten-free flour and pretzels, and double-check sauce labels for nuts or soy.
Nutritional Information
Each bar contains approximately 210 calories, 7 g total fat, 36 g carbohydrates, and 2 g protein.
Pin it 
Enjoy these flavorful bars for your next cozy gathering. They're sure to become a seasonal favorite!
Common Questions
- → Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, substitute gluten-free flour and pretzels to create a gluten-free version of these bars.
- → How do I store the bars after baking?
Once cooled, keep the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- → Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
Pears make a great substitute if you wish to vary the flavors or use seasonal produce.
- → What makes the bars spicy?
A dash of cayenne pepper in the apple layer adds gentle heat that elevates the flavor profile.
- → Should I use store-bought or homemade caramel sauce?
Either works well; homemade brings a richer taste, but store-bought offers convenience.
- → Is it necessary to peel the apples?
Peeling apples yields a softer texture, though leaving the skin on can add rustic appeal and extra fiber.
- → How do I cut the bars neatly?
Let the bars cool completely before slicing with a sharp knife for clean edges and distinct layers.
