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

Name: Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, melted (Adds richness and moisture); 1.5 cups granulated sugar (Sweetens the base and balances flavors); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Enhances the overall taste); 0.5 teaspoon salt (Brings out the sweetness); 2.5 cups all-purpose flour (Forms the crumble base); 3 cups peeled and thinly sliced apples (about 3 medium) (Provides natural sweetness and texture); 0.5 cup salted caramel sauce (The star ingredient for drizzle and depth); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (Adds warmth and spice); 0.25 teaspoon ground nutmeg (Complements the cinnamon beautifully)

As the leaves begin to turn and the air gets a little crisper, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked treats wafting through the kitchen. These Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars are the perfect embodiment of fall; they blend warm, spiced apples with a rich, creamy salted caramel and a buttery crumble topping. The combination of flavors and textures makes them delightfully addictive, and they are sure to impress your family and friends.

This cozy treat comes together in just 45 minutes, making it the perfect addition for those lazy autumn afternoons when you want something sweet without spending hours in the kitchen. Imagine biting into a warm bar with the soft apples beneath a crunchy topping, drizzled with luscious caramel that oozes with every bite. Does it get any better than that? Pin this recipe for later so you can make it this weekend!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to make with simple ingredients
Perfect for cozy weekends or brunch with family
Wholesome flavor that feels like home
Fun to share or enjoy solo with a warm cup of cider
Perfect for those craving a sweet and salty treat

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted – Adds richness and moisture
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar – Sweetens the base and balances flavors
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall taste
1/2 teaspoon salt – Brings out the sweetness
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – Forms the crumble base
3 cups peeled and thinly sliced apples (about 3 medium) – Provides natural sweetness and texture
1/2 cup salted caramel sauce – The star ingredient for drizzle and depth
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg – Complements the cinnamon beautifully

Step-by-Step Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
In a large bowl, combine melted butter, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well blended.
Gradually add flour and stir until the mixture becomes crumbly.
Press about two-thirds of the crumbly mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to create a crust.
In a separate bowl, toss sliced apples with cinnamon and nutmeg until they are well coated.
Spread the apple mixture evenly over the crust in the pan.
Drizzle salted caramel sauce generously over the apples, allowing it to trickle into the nooks and crannies.
Crumble the remaining flour mixture over the top to create a topping.
Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples have become tender.
Allow to cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars for the best texture.

Pro Tips for Success

Measure flour correctly for a light texture; spoon and level it for accuracy.
Let baked goods cool completely before glazing for neat slices.
Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Feel free to add chopped nuts for an extra crunch.
Serve these bars warm for maximum comfort.

Variations and Creative Twists

Try adding a handful of chocolate chips to the apple mixture for a delightful twist.
Incorporate a cinnamon swirl within the apple layer for added flavor.
Swirl in some pumpkin purée into the crumble mixture for a seasonal spin.
Substitute the sliced apples with pears or a mix of both for a unique flavor profile.

How to Store or Freeze

To keep your Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature before enjoying again.

Serving Ideas

These bars are perfect for a variety of occasions. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. They also make a fantastic addition to a Sunday brunch spread or an afternoon coffee break with friends. You can even pack them in lunchboxes for a delightful treat to brighten your day.

For More Recipe Inspiration

If you’re enjoying these Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars, check out these cozy recipes:

FAQ

Can I use frozen apples?

While fresh apples are best for texture, you can use frozen apples in a pinch. Just thaw and drain them well before using.

Can I customize the sweetness?

Absolutely! Adjust the sugar based on your preference for sweetness, especially considering the caramel sauce.

What type of apples are best for baking?

Varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work wonderfully for this recipe, providing a nice balance of sweetness and tartness.

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Whether you’re baking these delightful bars for a gathering or just treating yourself, they are sure to bring warmth and joy to your kitchen. Enjoy every bite of your salted caramel apple goodness!