Save Chewy, sweet, and crunchy, these bars combine buttery caramel, tart dried apples, and popcorn for a fun treat perfect for snacking or dessert.
I first brought these caramel apple popcorn bars to a fall party and everyone grabbed seconds. The combination of gooey caramel and crisp apple pieces won rave reviews, and now they're my go-to for picnics and movie nights.
Ingredients
- Popcorn: 8 cups plain popped popcorn (about 1/3 cup kernels, air-popped or lightly salted)
- Dried apple rings: 1 cup, chopped
- Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup
- Packed light brown sugar: 2/3 cup
- Light corn syrup: 1/4 cup
- Fine sea salt: 1/4 teaspoon
- Pure vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
- Ground cinnamon (optional): 1/4 teaspoon
- White or dark chocolate chips, melted (optional for drizzling): 1/2 cup
Instructions
- Prepare pan:
- Line a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease.
- Mix popcorn and apples:
- In a large bowl, combine the popped popcorn and chopped dried apples. Set aside.
- Cook caramel:
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in brown sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring constantly. Let boil for 2 minutes without stirring.
- Finish caramel:
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract (and cinnamon, if using).
- Combine with popcorn:
- Immediately pour the hot caramel over the popcorn-apple mixture. Use a spatula to gently toss until all pieces are evenly coated.
- Shape bars:
- Quickly press the mixture into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a greased spatula or piece of parchment.
- Drizzle chocolate (optional):
- If desired, drizzle melted chocolate over the bars.
- Cool:
- Allow to cool at room temperature for at least 1 hour until set.
- Cut and serve:
- Lift out of the pan using the parchment, and cut into 12 bars.
Save We always made a batch with our kids after apple picking. Licking the spoons and pressing the mixture into the pan was part of the fun. These treats bring together all the best fall flavors in one bite.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (butter). May contain tree nuts if added. Popcorn and dried apples are naturally gluten-free, but verify labels to avoid cross-contamination. Corn syrup is generally gluten-free, but check packaging if highly sensitive.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl, medium saucepan, 9x13-inch baking pan, parchment paper, spatula.
Nutritional Information
Each bar has approximately 185 calories, 7 g total fat, 30 g carbohydrates, and 1 g protein.
Save Enjoy these bars for autumn parties or pack them as a sweet lunchbox surprise. Their chewy caramel and fruity taste make them a favorite for all ages!
Recipe Guide
- → What makes these bars chewy and sweet?
The combination of buttery caramel and dried apples creates a chewy texture, while brown sugar and corn syrup offer sweetness.
- → Can I substitute dried apples with other fruits?
Yes, dried pears or cranberries work well for variation, adding a unique flavor twist.
- → Is there a nut-free option available?
You can omit nuts entirely, sticking with popcorn and fruit, or add roasted pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
- → How long do the bars stay fresh?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and crunch.
- → Are these bars suitable for gluten-free diets?
Popcorn and dried apples are naturally gluten-free; just check ingredient labels to avoid cross-contamination.
- → What is the best pan size for making these bars?
A 9x13-inch baking pan offers the right thickness and yields twelve generous bars.