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Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars: Fall Treat That Will Have You Addicted in 45 Minutes

Fall is here, and with it comes the irresistible scent of baked apples mingling with warm spices that instantly evoke memories of crisp autumn days. These Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars combine the classic flavors of a cozy apple pie with the delightful sweetness and saltiness of caramel, all packed into buttery crumble bars that can be whipped up in just 45 minutes. Perfect for a potluck or a cozy night in, these bars promise to be a treat that lucks you in with every bite.

Why Make This Recipe

Simplicity: Quick to prepare, needing only one bowl and minimal effort.
Flavor Explosion: The delightful combo of sweet apples, rich caramel, and a hint of spice.
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for sharing at gatherings, ensuring everyone leaves with a smile.

What makes these Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars special is their perfect balance of flavors and textures. The meld of tender apples, creamy caramel, and crunchy crumble creates a treat that not only satisfies the sweetest cravings but also captures the essence of fall in every indulgent bite.

Making Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars at Home

Ingredients

To make these delectable bars, gather the following 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

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal later.
In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix thoroughly until well blended.
Add the flour to the butter mixture, stirring until it forms a crumbly texture.
Press about two-thirds of this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to create the crust.
In a separate bowl, toss the sliced apples with the ground cinnamon and nutmeg to enhance their flavor. Spread this apple mixture over the crust in the pan.
Drizzle the salted caramel sauce generously over the apples to add a rich sweetness.
Finally, crumble the remaining flour mixture over the top to create a streusel-like topping.
Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender.
Once baked, let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares.

Storage Tips for Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars

To keep your delicious Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars fresh, follow these storage guidelines:

Temperature: Store at room temperature.
Time: Best consumed within 3-4 days.
Method: Cover with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container.

These steps will help retain their scrumptious flavor and texture, ensuring you can savor them throughout the week!

Best Ways to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars

Serving these bars is as simple as slicing them into squares and presenting them with a sprinkle of powdered sugar. For an elevated touch, consider the following:

Pair with Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream complements the warm flavor of the bars beautifully.
Drizzle More Caramel: Add an extra drizzle of salted caramel sauce on top before serving for that extra indulgence.
Create a Fall Dessert Platter: Include seasonal fruits like pears or figs, combined with the crumble bars for a visually stunning dessert spread.

Tips to Make Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars

Choose the Right Apples: Opt for a mix of tart and sweet apples—like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp—for depth of flavor.
Make Ahead: Prepare the bars a day in advance and let them sit overnight for improved flavor.
Cut Even Pieces: Use a sharp knife to cut through the bars after they’re cooled for neat squares.

Variations of Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars

While the original recipe is incredible, here are a couple of variations to try:

Nutty Addition: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the crumble topping for added crunch and flavor.
Caramel Variation: Substitute the salted caramel with a bourbon caramel for a hint of rich, southern-inspired warmth.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen apples?
A: While fresh apples give the best flavor and texture, thawed frozen apples can also work in a pinch. Just be sure to drain any excess liquid before using.

Q: Can I reduce the sugar content?
A: Yes! You can reduce the sugar by about 1/4 cup, especially if you prefer a less sweet dessert or are using very sweet apples.

Q: How can I prevent the bars from sticking to the pan?
A: Lining the pan with parchment paper and greasing it lightly will help ensure easy removal.

With these Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars on your dessert table this fall, you’re sure to become everyone’s favorite baker! Enjoy the cozy flavors of the season in every comforting bite.