Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars are a delicious dessert that combines the sweet taste of apples, the richness of caramel, and the crunch of a crumble topping. They are perfect for fall but are loved all year long. This recipe is simple and can be made in just 45 minutes. Whether you are hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, these bars will satisfy your sweet cravings.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

There are many reasons to love Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars. First, they are easy to make. You only need a few basic ingredients, and the steps are simple. Second, they have a wonderful taste. The combination of sweet apples, rich caramel, and a crunchy topping creates an explosion of flavors in your mouth. Third, they make any gathering feel special. The bars are visually appealing and sure to impress your guests. Lastly, they are fun to eat! You can hold a bar in your hand and enjoy it with a cup of coffee or tea. All these reasons make this recipe a must-try!

HOW TO MAKE Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars

Ingredients

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

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the oven is hot enough to bake the bars properly.
Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper. This helps to remove the bars easily once they have cooled.
In a large bowl, combine melted butter, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix them until they are well blended.
Add the flour to the mixture. Stir until it becomes crumbly. You want it to be a mix of wet and dry.
Press about two-thirds of the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. This will be your crust.
In a separate bowl, toss sliced apples with cinnamon and nutmeg. This adds flavor to the apples.
Spread the apple mixture over the crust in the pan. Make it even so every bite has apples.
Drizzle the salted caramel sauce over the apples. This adds sweetness and richness to the bars.
Crumble the remaining flour mixture over the top. This will form a crunchy topping.
Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender. You can check the apples with a fork.
Let cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars. This helps them hold their shape.

HOW TO SERVE Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars

You can serve Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars in many ways. They are great on their own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. Ice cream adds a creamy texture that pairs well with the crunchy bars. You can also enjoy them with whipped cream or even a drizzle of extra caramel sauce for a rich treat. For an extra touch, sprinkle a little sea salt on top before serving. This contrast brings out the flavors beautifully.

STORAGE & FREEZING: Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars

To store your Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars, place them in an airtight container. Keep them in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Cut the bars and wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will stay good for up to three months in the freezer. When you are ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

When serving Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars, you can get creative. Serve them at a family dinner, a potluck, or even a picnic. Pair them with hot beverages like coffee, tea, or apple cider for a cozy feel. If you have a gathering, consider making a dessert table. You can place the bars on a beautiful plate, surrounded by other treats. This makes for a colorful display that will catch everyone’s eye.

VARIATIONS

There are many ways to put a twist on this recipe. You can add nuts like pecans or walnuts to the crumble for a crunchy texture. If you want a different flavor, try adding dried cranberries or raisins to the apples. For a caramel twist, consider using chocolate sauce instead of caramel. You can also experiment with spices. Try adding more cinnamon or adding ginger for a spicier kick. The possibilities are endless when it comes to variations!

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of apple?
Yes! You can use any type of apple you like. Granny Smith apples give a tart flavor, while Fuji or Gala apples are sweeter.

2. How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender. You can test the apples with a fork to check for softness.

3. Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes! You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these bars gluten-free.

4. Can I prepare the mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the mixture ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to bake the bars on the same day for the best texture.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars

To make things easier, you can prepare some ingredients in advance. Slice the apples and toss them with cinnamon and nutmeg. Keep them in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake. You can also mix the butter, sugar, vanilla, and salt ahead of time, and store it in the fridge. When you are ready to bake, just take out the mixtures and continue with the recipe. This saves time and makes it quicker to enjoy your delicious Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars.

Now that you know how to make these bars, gather your ingredients and get started! You will create a delightful treat that everyone will love. Happy baking!