Salted caramel apple crumble bars combine the sweet, warm flavors of fall with a deliciously gooey texture that will leave you craving more. Perfect for gatherings, these bars are easy to prepare and elevate any dessert table with their comforting aroma and mouthwatering taste. With layers of spiced apples, salted caramel, and a crunchy crumble topping, each bite is a delightful mix of sweet and savory that invites all to dig in. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and create a family favorite.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Servings: 12 servings
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: Approximately 320
- Protein: 3g per serving
- Carbohydrates: 46g per serving
- Fat: 15g per serving
- Fiber: 2g per serving
- Sugar: 25g per serving
- Sodium: 150mg per serving
Why Make This Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars
Salted caramel apple crumble bars are the ideal dessert for any occasion. They blend the tartness of fresh apples with the rich flavors of caramel, resulting in a balanced treat that appeals to everyone. Whether it’s a cozy family night or a festive gathering, these bars shine with their tempting layers and comforting textures. Plus, they are simple to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making them perfect for busy schedules.
How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan to ensure easy removal of the bars after baking.
Step 2: Mixing
In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of rolled oats, 1 cup of brown sugar, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mix these dry ingredients well. Then, pour in 1 cup of melted unsalted butter and stir until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 3: Layering
Take half of the crumb mixture and evenly press it into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the base. In another bowl, mix the diced apple with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Spread the apple mixture over the crumb base, and then drizzle 1 cup of salted caramel sauce over the apples. Crumble the remaining mixture on top to create a layered finish.
Step 4: Baking
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping turns a lovely golden brown. Once baked, remove the pan and allow it to cool completely before cutting into bars.
How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars
Serve these bars warm, allowing the caramel to ooze slightly with each bite. For an extra touch, top them with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of nuts for added texture. They also pair wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon snack.
How to Store Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars
To keep your salted caramel apple crumble bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep them longer, refrigerated storage will extend their freshness up to a week. You can also freeze the bars for up to 3 months; just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
Expert Tips for Perfect Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars
- For the best flavor, use a mix of tart and sweet apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp.
- Make your salted caramel sauce from scratch for a richer taste, or use a high-quality store-bought version for convenience.
- If you want extra crunch, consider adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the crumble mixture.
- Ensure your apples are evenly diced for consistent cooking and easier slicing of the bars.
Delicious Variations
- Nutty Delight: Add 1/2 cup of chopped almonds or walnuts to the crumble for added crunch and flavor.
- Spiced Variation: Incorporate spices such as nutmeg or ginger into the apple mixture for a warm, spiced flavor profile.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled bars for a decadent twist.
- Coconut Crumble: Substitute half of the flour with shredded coconut for a tropical flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen apples? Yes, you can use frozen apples, but make sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture in your bars.
- Is there a substitute for the caramel sauce? If you don’t have salted caramel sauce, you can use regular caramel sauce and sprinkle a little sea salt on top.
- Can these be made gluten-free? Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend to make the recipe gluten-free.
- How can I make these ahead of time? You can make the bars a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just allow them to come to room temperature before serving.
- What can I do with leftover bars? Leftovers can be crumbled on top of yogurt or served over oatmeal for a delicious breakfast.
Conclusion
Salted caramel apple crumble bars are a delightful treat that blends the essence of cozy autumn flavors with the rich, indulgent taste of salted caramel. They are simple to prepare and are sure to impress your family and friends. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and enjoy the warm, inviting aroma that fills your kitchen as these bars bake. You’ll be rewarded with a fantastic dessert that is perfect for any occasion. Happy baking!
