why make this recipe
Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars are a delightful fall treat that combines the sweetness of apples with the rich flavor of salted caramel. They are easy to make and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a cozy dessert, these bars are sure to please everyone. Plus, they come together in just 45 minutes, making it a quick option for any gathering.
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
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine melted butter, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Add all-purpose flour and stir until the mixture is crumbly. Press about two-thirds of this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- In a separate bowl, toss the sliced apples with cinnamon and nutmeg. Spread the apple mixture over the crust in the pan.
- Drizzle salted caramel sauce over the apples. Crumble the remaining flour mixture over the top.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown, and the apples are tender.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares.
how to serve Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars
Once your Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars are cooled and cut, serve them on a platter. They are delicious on their own, but you could also serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For an extra special touch, drizzle more salted caramel sauce over the top just before serving.
how to store Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars
To store your Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars, place them in an airtight container. You can keep them at room temperature for up to three days, or in the refrigerator for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the bars for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.
tips to make Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars
- Make sure to slice the apples thinly to ensure they cook evenly.
- Use a good quality salted caramel sauce for the best flavor.
- You can mix in some nuts or oats into the crumble for added texture.
- Don’t skip the cooling step. Letting the bars cool completely will help them hold their shape when cut.
variation
Feel free to experiment with different types of apples. Granny Smith apples offer a tart flavor, while Honeycrisp apples are sweeter and crunchier. You can also swap the salted caramel for chocolate sauce if you prefer a different flavor profile.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen apples?
Yes, you can use frozen apples. Just make sure to thaw them and drain any excess liquid before using.
2. Why did my crumble topping not turn golden brown?
If your topping isn’t browning, it might need more time in the oven. Every oven is different, so check on it periodically.
3. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make them a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.