Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars Fall Treat: Get Addicted in 45 Min

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by Dian

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Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars Fall Treat: Get Addicted in 45 Min

Delight in the flavors of fall with these Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars Fall Treat: Get Addicted in 45 Min. These bars combine sweet apples with a rich salted caramel drizzle and a crunchy crumble topping, making them perfect for gatherings, cozy nights in, or as a delightful dessert to impress your guests. The best part? They are quick and easy to prepare, allowing you to indulge in this seasonal treat in just over an hour.

Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars Fall Treat: Get Addicted in 45 Min
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick Preparation: With only 20 minutes of prep time, you can have these bars ready for baking swiftly.
  • Irresistible Flavor: The combination of sweet apples and salted caramel creates a flavor explosion that will keep you coming back for more.
  • Versatile Dessert: Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night at home.
  • Texture Contrast: Enjoy the crunch of the crumble topping alongside soft, tender apples.
  • Make Ahead Option: These bars can be stored easily, making them ideal for meal prep or last-minute desserts.

Tools and Preparation

Getting everything ready beforehand makes the cooking process smoother. Gather these essential tools to ensure your baking goes off without a hitch.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Baking pan (9×13 inch)
  • Parchment paper
  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Whisk or spoon for mixing

Importance of Each Tool

  • Baking pan: A sturdy baking pan ensures even cooking and helps prevent sticking when lined with parchment paper.
  • Parchment paper: This makes removal easy after baking and helps keep the bars intact.
  • Mixing bowls: Using several bowls helps keep ingredients organized during preparation.
  • Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements guarantee the right balance of flavors and textures in your bars.
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Ingredients

Delicious salted caramel apple crumble bars, perfect for fall.

For the Crust and Topping

  • 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

For the Filling

  • 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

How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars Fall Treat: Get Addicted in 45 Min

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust Mixture

In a large bowl, combine:
1. Melted butter
2. Granulated sugar
3. Vanilla extract
4. Salt

Stir until well mixed. Add flour gradually while stirring until you achieve a crumbly texture.

Step 3: Form the Base Layer

Press about two-thirds of the mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan.

Step 4: Assemble the Apple Filling

In another bowl, toss sliced apples with:
– Ground cinnamon
– Ground nutmeg

Spread this mixture evenly over the crust in the pan.

Step 5: Add Caramel Sauce

Drizzle salted caramel sauce generously over the apple layer. Then, crumble the remaining flour mixture on top.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake in your preheated oven for approximately 40–45 minutes or until the topping turns golden brown and apples become tender.

Step 7: Cool Before Serving

Once baked, allow them to cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars. Enjoy your delightful Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars!

How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars Fall Treat: Get Addicted in 45 Min

These salted caramel apple crumble bars are a delightful addition to any gathering. Their rich flavors and comforting texture make them perfect for sharing. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

Share with Friends

  • Invite friends over for a cozy dessert night and serve these bars with a side of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Pair with Hot Beverages

  • Enjoy these bars with a warm cup of cider or hot cocoa for a classic fall treat.

Add Fresh Fruit

  • Serve alongside sliced pears or berries for a refreshing contrast to the rich caramel flavor.

Create Dessert Plates

  • Assemble dessert plates with assorted treats like cookies, brownies, and these crumble bars for an enticing dessert spread.

How to Perfect Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars Fall Treat: Get Addicted in 45 Min

To elevate your salted caramel apple crumble bars, consider the following tips for the best results.

  • Choose the Right Apples: Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a balanced flavor that pairs well with sweet caramel.

  • Make Your Own Caramel Sauce: Homemade salted caramel sauce adds a richer taste compared to store-bought options.

  • Use Cold Butter: For a crumbly texture, ensure your butter is cold before mixing it into the flour mixture.

  • Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on baking time; remove the bars when they turn golden brown for optimal softness.

  • Let Them Cool Completely: Allowing the bars to cool fully in the pan ensures they set properly and are easy to cut into perfect squares.

Best Side Dishes for Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars Fall Treat: Get Addicted in 45 Min

These salted caramel apple crumble bars can shine even brighter when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options to consider.

  1. Vanilla Ice Cream
    A classic pairing that adds creaminess and balances the sweetness of the bars.

  2. Whipped Cream
    Light and fluffy, whipped cream enhances each bite and provides a lovely texture contrast.

  3. Caramel Sauce Drizzle
    A simple drizzle of extra salted caramel sauce elevates the flavor profile even further.

  4. Fresh Fruit Salad
    A mix of seasonal fruits can add brightness and freshness, countering the richness of the bars.

  5. Chai Tea
    The warm spices in chai tea complement the cinnamon in the crumble bars beautifully.

  6. Cheese Board
    Offer a selection of cheeses that pair well with sweet flavors, such as brie or goat cheese, for an interesting twist.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially when making delicious treats like salted caramel apple crumble bars. Avoid these common mistakes for the best results.

  • Bold measurement errors: Always double-check your ingredient measurements. Using too much or too little can affect texture and flavor.
  • Bold skipping the cooling time: Allowing the bars to cool completely is essential. Skipping this step may result in messy bars that fall apart when cut.
  • Bold using unripe apples: Choose ripe apples for the best flavor and texture. Unripe apples might not soften enough during baking.
  • Bold neglecting to line the pan: Lining your baking pan with parchment paper prevents sticking. This makes it easier to lift out your bars once cooled.
  • Bold overbaking the crumble: Keep an eye on your crumble while baking. Overbaking can lead to a dry topping instead of a golden, crumbly texture.
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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
  • Ensure the bars are completely cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars Fall Treat: Get Addicted in 45 Min

  • Freeze individually wrapped bars or store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
  • Label containers with dates for easy reference.

Reheating Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars Fall Treat: Get Addicted in 45 Min

  • Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
  • Microwave: Heat one bar at a time for 15-20 seconds until warmed through.
  • Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these salted caramel apple crumble bars a perfect fall treat?

These salted caramel apple crumble bars combine sweet apples and rich salted caramel, creating a comforting dessert that embodies fall flavors.

Can I use different types of apples?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples are tart and hold their shape well, you can mix them with sweeter varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp for added flavor complexity.

How do I adjust the recipe for allergies?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends or use vegan butter alternatives if needed, making this treat more inclusive.

How can I make these bars more decadent?

Consider adding chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, into the crumble topping or drizzle extra salted caramel sauce before serving.

How should I cut these salted caramel apple crumble bars?

Use a sharp knife and ensure they are fully cooled before cutting. For best results, clean the knife between cuts to maintain clean edges.

Final Thoughts

These salted caramel apple crumble bars are an irresistible fall treat that captures cozy autumn flavors. Feel free to customize by incorporating nuts or experimenting with different apple varieties. We encourage you to try this recipe; it’s sure to become a favorite!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars Fall Treat: Get Addicted in 45 Min

Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars Fall Treat: Get Addicted in 45 Min


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  • Author: Dian
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

Description

Indulge in the flavors of fall with these Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars, a delightful treat that combines sweet apples with a luscious salted caramel drizzle and a crunchy crumble topping. Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in, these bars are not only quick to prepare but also impressively delicious.


Ingredients

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  • 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups peeled and thinly sliced apples
  • ½ cup salted caramel sauce
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until well mixed.
  3. Gradually add flour to the mixture until crumbly.
  4. Press about two-thirds of the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
  5. In another bowl, toss sliced apples with cinnamon and nutmeg before spreading them evenly over the crust.
  6. Drizzle salted caramel sauce over the apple layer and sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture on top.
  7. Bake for approximately 40–45 minutes until golden brown and tender.
  8. Allow cooling completely before cutting into bars.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bar (approximately 75g)
  • Calories: 270
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 120mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

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