Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars

Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars

Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars are an irresistible treat that captures the essence of fall with every bite. This recipe brings together warm, spiced apples topped with a buttery crumble and drizzled with luscious salted caramel. The moment you take a bite, the sweet and savory flavors blend harmoniously, making these bars a delightful indulgence. Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in, these bars are not just a dessert; they’re an experience. The balance of textures—from the soft, juicy apples to the crunchy top—makes this dish worth making time and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this recipe for its ease of preparation and family-friendly approach. With simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry, this dessert is quick to whip up, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. The appeal of Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars extends beyond their delicious flavor; they are also stunning to look at, with their golden crumb topping and rich caramel glaze. Plus, they’re versatile—perfect as a dessert or a sweet snack.

Ingredients for Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars

This delightful recipe only requires a handful of ingredients, each contributing to the rich, comforting flavors of the bars:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted: Rich and creamy, it forms the base of the crumble.
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetness that balances the tart apples and savory caramel.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm aroma and depth to the flavor profile.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the sweetness and complements the salted caramel.
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Creates the thick, crumbly topping that holds everything together.
• 3 cups peeled and thinly sliced apples (about 3 medium): Gives the bars their fruity essence and moisture.
• 1/2 cup salted caramel sauce: The star ingredient that introduces a sweet sophistication.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Brings a cozy warmth and spiciness to the dish.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a hint of earthiness that rounds out the flavors.

Step-by-Step Directions for Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars

Follow these straightforward steps to create your Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C): Preparing the oven ensures that your bars cook evenly and come out perfectly golden brown.

2. Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper: This makes for an easy release of the bars after they’ve cooled, allowing for clean cuts.

3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt: Stir until all ingredients are well-blended into a smooth mixture.

4. Gradually add flour and stir: Mix until you achieve a crumbly texture. This is the foundation for the crust.

5. Press two-thirds of this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan: Compacting this layer creates a sturdy base for the apples and crumble.

6. In a separate bowl, toss thinly sliced apples with cinnamon and nutmeg: This step infuses the apples with warmth and depth.

7. Spread this apple mixture over the crust: Evenly distribute the spiced apples, making sure to cover the crust thoroughly.

8. Drizzle salted caramel sauce generously over the apples: This luscious layer adds richness and flavor.

9. Crumble the remaining flour mixture over the top: This final touch adds the crunchy element to complement the soft apples.

10. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender: The aroma wafting will tempt anyone in the vicinity!

11. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan: This step is crucial for cutting perfect squares without crumbly disasters.

Tips & Tricks for Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars

To elevate your Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars, consider these chef’s secrets:

• Use a mix of apple varieties: Combining tart and sweet apples can enhance flavor complexity, making your bars more interesting.

• Add nuts for crunch: Chopped pecans or walnuts sprinkled on top before baking add extra texture and flavor.

• Opt for homemade caramel: If time permits, homemade salted caramel sauce will elevate these bars to a whole new level of gourmet flavor.

• Serve warm with ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream on top adds a delightful creaminess that pairs perfectly.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

These bars are delightful on their own, but you can also serve them with some creative ideas for a complete experience:

• Top with whipped cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream enhances the richness.

• Drizzle with additional caramel: For caramel lovers, an extra drizzle of warm salted caramel just before serving is heavenly.

• Pair with spiced tea or coffee: The warm flavors of ginger, cinnamon, or nutmeg in these beverages complement the apple crumble beautifully.

Nutritional Information for Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars

While indulging in these delightful bars, it’s worth noting some nutritional elements. Each serving typically ranges around:

• Calories: Approximately 250-300
• Fat: 12-15g
• Carbohydrates: 35-40g
• Protein: 2-3g

Keep in mind that these bars are perfect for an occasional treat rather than an everyday indulgence.

Storing Tips & Variations for Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars

To keep your Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars fresh and flavorful, consider the following tips:

• Freezing: These bars freeze exceptionally well. Slice them into squares, wrap them tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months for a quick dessert later.

• Reheating: Enjoy them warm by popping them in the microwave for a few seconds or a quick bake to bring back the fresh-out-of-the-oven experience.

• Healthier swaps: Substitute half the butter with applesauce for a lighter version without sacrificing too much flavor.

• Creative variations: Swap apples for pears or add a handful of dried cranberries for a different textural twist.

Conclusion Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars

With their beautiful blend of flavors and textures, Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars are truly a must-try recipe. The combination of spiced apples and rich caramel, all wrapped in a crunchy crust, makes these bars irresistible to anyone who loves a good dessert. Don’t wait any longer—gather your ingredients and start baking today! Your taste buds will thank you.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen apples for this recipe?
   Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture.

2. How long can I store these bars?
   They can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the fridge for a week.

3. Can I use gluten-free flour?
   Absolutely! Substitute with a gluten-free flour blend, and ensure the baking powder used is also gluten-free if needed.

4. What if I don’t have unsalted butter?
   You can use salted butter, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to balance the flavors.

5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
   Yes! These bars can be made a day or two in advance. Just store them properly in an airtight container.

With these answers, you’re well-equipped to embark on your baking journey with Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars

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• Author: noah-reed
• Total Time: 60 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Irresistible Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars combine warm, spiced apples with a buttery crumble and luscious salted caramel, making them a delightful treat for any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 cups peeled and thinly sliced apples (about 3 medium)
• 1/2 cup salted caramel sauce
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt; stir until well-blended into a smooth mixture.
4. Gradually add flour and stir until you achieve a crumbly texture.
5. Press two-thirds of this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan.
6. In a separate bowl, toss thinly sliced apples with cinnamon and nutmeg.
7. Spread this apple mixture over the crust.
8. Drizzle salted caramel sauce generously over the apples.
9. Crumble the remaining flour mixture over the top.
10. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until topping is golden brown and apples are tender.
11. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting.

Notes

To elevate your bars, use a mix of apple varieties, add nuts for extra crunch, or serve warm with ice cream.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 30mg