Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars: Your Perfect Fall Treat!

Introduction to Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars Fall Treat

As the leaves turn golden and the air gets crisp, I find myself craving cozy desserts that warm the heart. That’s where my Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars Fall Treat comes in! These bars are not just a delightful way to celebrate fall; they’re also a quick solution for busy days when you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. With sweet apples, rich caramel, and a crunchy topping, these bars are a hug in dessert form. Trust me, they’ll become a favorite in your home!

Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars: Your Perfect Fall Treat!

Print Recipe

Delicious salted caramel apple crumble bars that are perfect for fall, combining sweet apples, rich caramel, and a crunchy crumble topping.

• Author: Chef Samantha
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 12 bars
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 cups apples, peeled and diced
• 1 cup salted caramel sauce

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix flour, oats, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Add melted butter and stir until crumbly.
4. Press half of the mixture into the bottom of a greased baking pan.
5. Spread the diced apples evenly over the crust.
6. Drizzle salted caramel sauce over the apples.
7. Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture on top.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Let cool before cutting into bars.

Notes

• For a richer flavor, use a mix of sweet and tart apples.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Can be served warm with ice cream for an extra treat.

Why You’ll Love This Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars Fall Treat

These Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars are a dream come true for busy moms and professionals alike. They come together in just about 50 minutes, making them perfect for a last-minute dessert. The combination of sweet apples and rich caramel creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, the crunchy crumble topping adds that delightful texture we all crave. It’s a treat that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy!

Ingredients for Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars Fall Treat

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delicious Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars. Here’s what you’ll need:

• All-purpose flour: This forms the base of your crumble, giving it structure and a delightful texture.
• Rolled oats: They add a hearty chewiness and a nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the apples.
• Brown sugar: This brings a rich, caramel-like sweetness that enhances the overall flavor of the bars.
• Granulated sugar: A touch of this balances the flavors and helps create that perfect golden crust.
• Unsalted butter: Melted butter binds the crumble together and adds richness. Using unsalted allows you to control the saltiness.
• Cinnamon: This warm spice is essential for that cozy fall flavor, making every bite feel like a hug.
• Salt: Just a pinch enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors beautifully.
• Apples: Choose a mix of sweet and tart varieties for depth of flavor. They provide the juicy filling that makes these bars irresistible.
• Salted caramel sauce: This is the star of the show! It adds a luscious, gooey layer that takes these bars to the next level.

For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy baking!

How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars Fall Treat

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious fall treat in no time.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures even baking. If you skip this step, your bars might not cook properly, leaving you with a gooey mess instead of a delightful treat!

Step 2: Prepare the Crumble Mixture

In a large bowl, combine your all-purpose flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Mix them well! Each ingredient plays a role: the flour gives structure, oats add chewiness, and sugar brings sweetness. The cinnamon? It’s the warm hug that makes everything feel like fall.

Step 3: Add the Butter

Next, pour in the melted unsalted butter. This is where the magic happens! The butter binds everything together and adds richness. Stir until the mixture becomes crumbly. You want it to resemble wet sand—this will create that perfect topping later on.

Step 4: Form the Base Layer

Now, take half of your crumble mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of a greased baking pan. Make sure it’s even! This base layer is essential for holding everything together, so don’t rush it. A solid foundation leads to a delicious bar!

Step 5: Layer the Apples

Time to layer those apples! Spread your peeled and diced apples evenly over the crust. For the best flavor, mix sweet and tart apples. This combination creates a delightful contrast that will have everyone coming back for more!

Step 6: Drizzle with Caramel

Now, it’s time for the star of the show—salted caramel sauce! Drizzle it generously over the apples. Make sure to cover them evenly for maximum flavor. The caramel will melt into the apples as they bake, creating a gooey, sweet layer that’s simply irresistible.

Step 7: Top with Remaining Crumble

Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture over the caramel and apples. This topping is what gives your bars that crunchy texture we all love. Don’t be shy—make sure it’s evenly distributed for a perfect finish!

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Finally, pop your pan into the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and the apples are bubbling. Let it cool before cutting into bars. Trust me, the wait will be worth it!

Tips for Success

• Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for a balanced flavor.
• Don’t skip the preheating step; it’s key for even baking.
• Let the bars cool completely before cutting for cleaner slices.
• For extra indulgence, serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Equipment Needed

• Baking pan: A 9×9 inch pan works perfectly, but you can use any similar-sized dish.
• Mixing bowls: A large bowl for the crumble and a smaller one for mixing the apples.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient measurements.
• Spatula: Great for mixing and spreading the crumble evenly.
• Oven mitts: Safety first! Protect your hands when handling hot pans.

Variations of Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars Fall Treat

• Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the crumble mixture for an extra crunch and flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these bars suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
• Spiced Up: Experiment with spices like nutmeg or ginger for a warm, spiced flavor that complements the apples beautifully.
• Fruit Fusion: Mix in other fruits like pears or cranberries for a delightful twist on the classic apple flavor.
• Vegan Version: Replace butter with coconut oil and use a flax egg to make these bars vegan-friendly.

Serving Suggestions for Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars Fall Treat

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
• Pair with a hot cup of spiced chai or apple cider for a cozy experience.
• Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.
• Top with whipped cream and a drizzle of extra caramel for indulgence.
• Enjoy with a side of fresh fruit for a refreshing balance.

FAQs about Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars Fall Treat

Can I use frozen apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, frozen apples work just fine. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before layering to avoid excess moisture.

How do I store leftover bars?
Store your Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the bars a day in advance. Just bake them, let them cool, and store them covered in the fridge. They’ll taste just as delicious the next day!

What can I substitute for salted caramel sauce?
If you don’t have salted caramel sauce, you can use regular caramel sauce and sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top before serving. It’ll still be delightful!

Are these bars suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes! Simply swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and you’ll have a delicious gluten-free version of these Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars Fall Treat!

Final Thoughts

Making these Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars is more than just baking; it’s about creating memories. The aroma of cinnamon and caramel wafting through your home will wrap around you like a warm blanket on a chilly fall day. Each bite is a delightful mix of flavors and textures that brings smiles to faces, young and old. Whether you’re sharing them with family or enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of tea, these bars are sure to become a cherished fall tradition. So, roll up your sleeves and let the joy of baking fill your kitchen!