Caramel Apple Pretzel Bars (Printer View)
Sweet apples, flaky biscuit crust, and pretzel crumble make these bars an irresistible autumn treat.
# Components:
→ Biscuit Base
01 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
03 - 2 teaspoons baking powder
04 - 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
05 - 3/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
06 - 2/3 cup cold whole milk
→ Caramel Apple Layer
07 - 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced
08 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
09 - 1/3 cup light brown sugar
10 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
11 - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
12 - Pinch of salt
→ Pretzel Crumble
13 - 1 cup mini pretzels, coarsely crushed
14 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
15 - 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
→ Caramel Sauce
16 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
17 - 2 tablespoons water
18 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
19 - 1/4 cup heavy cream
20 - 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
# Method:
01 - Preheat oven to 375°F. Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring overhang for easy removal.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in cold butter with a pastry cutter or fork until mixture resembles pea-sized crumbs. Add cold whole milk; stir gently until just combined. Evenly press biscuit dough into the bottom of the prepared pan.
03 - In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring frequently, 5 to 8 minutes until apples are tender and mixture becomes syrupy. Distribute apple mixture evenly atop biscuit base.
04 - Combine crushed pretzels, melted butter, and granulated sugar in a small bowl. Evenly sprinkle pretzel mixture over apple layer.
05 - Transfer pan to oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until topping is golden and center is set. Cool in pan for at least 20 minutes.
06 - In a small saucepan, combine granulated sugar and water over medium heat. Cook without stirring until mixture turns deep amber, 5 to 7 minutes. Remove from heat; carefully whisk in butter, followed by heavy cream and sea salt. Let sauce cool slightly.
07 - Drizzle prepared caramel sauce generously over cooled bars. Use parchment overhang to lift bars out of pan. Cut into 16 pieces and serve.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- Sweet and salty flavor combination
- Perfect dessert for gatherings or fall occasions
02 -
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days
- May contain wheat, milk, and traces of nuts depending on ingredients
03 -
- Add chopped toasted pecans to the pretzel crumble for extra crunch
- Serve with vanilla ice cream for an extra creamy dessert