Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars: A Decadent Fall Treat

Autumn’s arrival brings a wave of cozy comfort, and what better way to embrace the season than with these irresistible Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars? Imagine the warm, buttery crumble topping, the sweet and tart apple filling infused with rich caramel, and that delightful hint of salt – it’s a symphony of flavors that will transport you to a world of pure autumnal bliss. These bars are not just a dessert; they’re an experience, perfect for sharing with loved ones during chilly evenings or impressing guests with a truly special treat. From the simple elegance of their appearance to the complex depth of their flavor, these Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars are guaranteed to become a new family favorite. This recipe perfectly balances sweet and savory, creating a delightful contrast that will leave you craving more. Let’s dive into the details of crafting these magical bars.

Why You’ll Love This Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars Recipe

These Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars are more than just a delicious dessert; they’re a testament to the magic of simple ingredients combined in perfect harmony. Here’s why you’ll fall head over heels for this recipe:

• Unbelievably Easy: The recipe is surprisingly simple, even for novice bakers. The steps are straightforward, and the result is stunning.
• Perfectly Balanced Flavors: The sweet apples, rich caramel, and subtle saltiness create a flavor profile that’s both comforting and sophisticated. It’s a delicious balance you won’t find anywhere else.
• Stunning Presentation: These bars look as good as they taste. The golden-brown crumble topping and the glistening caramel apples make them a showstopper dessert for any occasion.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the bars ahead of time and store them for later. They’re delicious served warm or at room temperature.
• Adaptable to Your Preferences: Feel free to experiment with different types of apples, nuts, or spices to personalize the recipe to your liking. You can even try adding a swirl of chocolate for an extra decadent touch!
• Perfect for Sharing: These bars are ideal for potlucks, bake sales, or simply sharing with family and friends. They’re always a crowd-pleaser.

This recipe is a delightful blend of classic crumble and the modern twist of salted caramel, creating a truly unique and unforgettable dessert. It’s the perfect recipe to showcase your baking skills while ensuring a delightful treat for everyone. Consider this your go-to recipe for fall gatherings, holiday celebrations, or just a cozy night in.

Why You Should Try This Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars Recipe

In a world of overly complicated recipes, this Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars recipe stands out for its simplicity and remarkable taste. Here are compelling reasons to give it a try:

• Impressive Results with Minimal Effort: You’ll be amazed at how easily you can achieve such a delicious and visually appealing dessert. This recipe is perfect for those who want impressive results without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Uses Common Ingredients: You likely already have most of the ingredients in your pantry. This makes it a convenient and budget-friendly recipe.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor Combination: The combination of sweet apples, creamy caramel, and crunchy crumble is a winner with everyone, from kids to adults. It’s a dessert that transcends age and preference.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for everything from casual weeknight desserts to elegant dinner parties. It’s adaptable to any occasion.
• A Delicious Fall Treat: Embrace the flavors of fall with this perfectly seasonal dessert. It’s the epitome of autumn baking.
• Satisfying Texture: The combination of the crisp crumble topping, tender apples, and gooey caramel creates a delightful textural experience. It’s a dessert that keeps your tastebuds engaged.

Beyond its deliciousness and ease, making these bars is a rewarding experience. The aroma of baking apples and caramel will fill your kitchen with warmth, creating a comforting atmosphere perfect for fall. Try this recipe and discover a new favorite dessert that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils for Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars

This section details the ingredients and equipment needed to create these delectable Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars. Precise measurements are essential for baking success.

Ingredients:

• For the Crust:
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version)
  • ½ cup rolled oats (quick-cooking or old-fashioned)
  • ½ cup packed light brown sugar (granulated sugar can be substituted)
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder (essential for a light and airy crust)
  • ½ teaspoon salt (enhances the flavors)
  • ½ cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes (cold butter is crucial for a flaky crust)
• For the Caramel Apple Filling:
  • 4 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended, but any tart apple works well), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced (thin slices ensure even cooking)
  • ½ cup packed light brown sugar (adds sweetness and moisture)
  • ¼ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade) – consider a salted caramel sauce for extra depth.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (prevents browning and adds brightness)
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (classic fall spice)
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (warm, slightly sweet spice)
  • Pinch of salt (balances the sweetness)
• For the Crumble Topping:
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
  • ½ cup rolled oats
  • ½ cup packed light brown sugar
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
  • ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, but adds great texture and flavor)

Necessary Utensils:

• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Large mixing bowls (at least two)
• Medium mixing bowl
• Pastry blender or your fingers (for cutting in the butter)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Apple peeler, corer, and slicer (to save time and ensure even slices)
• Parchment paper (optional, but makes cleanup easier)

Having all the necessary ingredients and utensils readily available will streamline your baking process and ensure a smoother experience.

Detailed Recipe Steps for Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars

Follow these step-by-step instructions to create your own batch of these delicious Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars.

Step 1: Preparing the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the bars bake evenly.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, oats, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk until well combined to ensure even distribution of leavening agents.
3. Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry blender or your fingertips. Work quickly to prevent the butter from melting. You want a coarse crumbly mixture. **The colder the butter, the flakier the crust will be.**
4. Press half of the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking pan. Use your fingers or the bottom of a measuring cup to create an even layer.

Step 2: Creating the Caramel Apple Filling

1. In a large bowl, combine the thinly sliced apples, brown sugar, caramel sauce, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. **Gently toss to coat the apples evenly.** Avoid over-mixing, as this can cause the apples to become mushy.
2. Spread the apple mixture evenly over the prepared crust in the baking pan. Try to distribute the apples evenly to ensure uniform baking and prevent uneven caramel distribution.

Step 3: Making the Crumble Topping

1. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, and salt for the crumble topping. Again, ensure all ingredients are well combined.
2. Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. **The mixture should be crumbly, not smooth.**
3. Stir in the chopped pecans or walnuts, if desired. Nuts add a wonderful textural contrast to the bars.
4. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the apple filling. Don’t be shy with the crumble it’s what makes these bars so special.

Step 4: Baking and Cooling

1. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-baking.
2. Let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. This is **crucial** for the bars to set properly and prevent them from crumbling. Patience is key here!

Step 5: Serving and Enjoying

1. Once cooled, cut the bars into squares and serve. They are delicious served warm or at room temperature.
2. Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Tips and Variations for Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars

Here are some helpful tips and variations to enhance your Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars experience:

• Apple Variety: Experiment with different apple varieties! A mix of tart and sweet apples creates a beautiful balance of flavors. Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Braeburn are all excellent choices.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of ginger or cardamom to the filling for a warm, aromatic twist. A dash of allspice also complements the apple and caramel beautifully.
• Nutty Additions: Try different nuts like walnuts, pecans, or even hazelnuts in the crumble topping.
• Oatmeal Variations: Use gluten-free oats for a gluten-free option or try quick-cooking oats for a slightly different texture.
• Make it Vegan: Replace the butter with vegan butter and ensure your caramel sauce is vegan-friendly. There are many delicious vegan caramel options available commercially.
• Prevent Soggy Bottoms: Ensure the bottom crust is fully baked before adding the filling to prevent a soggy base. Consider blind-baking the crust for 10-12 minutes before adding the filling.
• Don’t Overbake: Overbaking will result in dry bars. Start checking for doneness at 35 minutes and remove from the oven when the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.

Nutritional Values and Benefits of Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars

While Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars are undeniably indulgent, let’s examine their nutritional aspects. A precise nutritional breakdown requires specific ingredient brands and weights, but we can explore the general nutritional benefits of the key ingredients:

• Apples: Excellent source of fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. Fiber aids digestion and promotes satiety, while vitamin C boosts the immune system. Antioxidants help protect cells from damage.
• Oats: Rich in fiber, particularly beta-glucan, which is known to lower cholesterol levels. They also provide sustained energy and contribute to feelings of fullness.
• Brown Sugar: Provides energy, but should be consumed in moderation due to its higher sugar content compared to granulated sugar. Contains small amounts of minerals like iron and potassium.
• Butter: Provides fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamin A and E, but should be consumed in moderation due to its high saturated fat content.
• Nuts (if used): Excellent source of healthy fats, protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals. The healthy fats contribute to heart health and brain function.

Remember that these bars are a treat best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. While they offer some nutritional benefits from their ingredients, the sugar and fat content should be considered.

FAQs

Conclusion: Indulge in the Perfect Fall Treat

These Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars offer a delightful blend of textures and flavors that perfectly capture the essence of autumn. From the crunchy crumble topping to the sweet and tart apple filling, each bite is a journey for the senses. This recipe is remarkably simple, yet produces a dessert that’s both impressive and satisfying. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these bars are a guaranteed success. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to be amazed by the delicious results! Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below, and tag us on Pinterest Pinterest when you make these!

For more delicious fall recipes, check out our Pumpkin Cake Balls or our The Best Pumpkin Pie Recipe on recipesliana.com. Happy baking!

Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars

These delicious Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars are the perfect blend of sweet and salty, with a buttery crumble topping and a gooey caramel apple filling. A simple yet impressive dessert for any occasion.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Servings: 12 bars

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Crust Ingredients

• 1.5 cups All-purpose flour
• 0.5 cups Rolled oats
• 0.5 cups Packed light brown sugar
• 0.5 teaspoon Baking powder
• 0.5 teaspoon Salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) Cold unsalted butter cut into cubes

Filling Ingredients

• 4 medium Granny Smith apples peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
• 0.5 cups Packed light brown sugar
• 0.25 cups Caramel sauce store-bought or homemade
• 1 tablespoon Lemon juice
• 0.5 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
• 0.25 teaspoon Ground nutmeg
• pinch Salt

Crumble Topping Ingredients

• 0.5 cups All-purpose flour
• 0.5 cups Rolled oats
• 0.5 cups Packed light brown sugar
• 0.25 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 cups (1 stick) Cold unsalted butter cut into cubes
• 0.25 cups Chopped pecans or walnuts optional

Equipment

• 9x13 inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Pastry blender or fork

Method

 

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
2. Make the crust: In a large bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press half of the crust mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan.
3. Make the filling: In a separate bowl, combine the sliced apples, brown sugar, caramel sauce, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Toss gently to coat. Spread the apple mixture evenly over the crust in the pan.
4. Make the crumble topping: In another bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the pecans or walnuts, if using.
5. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the apple filling.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
7. Let cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars. This allows the bars to set properly.
8. Cut into bars and serve. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!

Notes

For a richer caramel flavor, use homemade caramel sauce. You can also substitute other types of apples, but Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold their shape best during baking. Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.