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

Delicious salted caramel apple crumble bars are a must-try fall treat that you can easily make in just 45 minutes. These bars feature a perfect balance of sweet apples and rich salted caramel, all topped with a crumbly mixture that adds texture and flavor. Ideal for gatherings, potlucks, or cozy evenings at home, these bars will have everyone coming back for more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delightful dessert in no time.
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of cinnamon-spiced apples and luscious salted caramel creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Perfect for Fall: Celebrate the season with this comforting treat that showcases the best flavors of autumn.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as a dessert, snack, or even breakfast on-the-go!
• Crowd-Pleaser: With 24 servings, these bars are perfect for sharing at parties or family gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To ensure your salted caramel apple crumble bars turn out perfectly, gather some essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking pan (9×13 inch)
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or spatula
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking pan: A 9×13 inch pan is ideal for even cooking and easy serving.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without spills.
• Knife and cutting board: Perfect for slicing apples evenly to ensure they cook well.

Ingredients

Delicious salted caramel apple crumble bars, perfect for fall.

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

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 the following:
1. Melted butter
2. Sugar
3. Vanilla extract
4. Salt

Mix well until fully combined.

Step 3: Create the Base Layer

Add the all-purpose flour to the mixture:
* Stir until crumbly.
* Press about two-thirds of this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.

Step 4: Prepare the Apple Filling

In a separate bowl, toss together:
1. Sliced apples
2. Ground cinnamon
3. Ground nutmeg

Spread this apple mixture over the crust in the baking pan.

Step 5: Add Salted Caramel Sauce

Drizzle the salted caramel sauce over the apples evenly.

Step 6: Top with Crumble Mixture

Crumble the remaining flour mixture over the top of the apples and caramel layer.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake in your preheated oven for about:
* 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender.

Step 8: Cool Before Serving

Let cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars. Enjoy your delicious salted caramel apple crumble bars!

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

These delicious salted caramel apple crumble bars make for an irresistible dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

A la Mode

• Top each bar with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a creamy contrast to the warm crumble.

Whipped Cream Delight

• Add a generous dollop of whipped cream on top for added richness and sweetness.

Drizzle More Caramel

• Enhance the flavor by drizzling extra salted caramel sauce over the bars before serving.

Fresh Fruit Garnish

• Serve with fresh apple slices or berries on the side to complement the flavors and add a refreshing touch.

Coffee Pairing

• Enjoy these bars with a cup of hot coffee or spiced tea for a cozy afternoon treat.

Packaged Treats

• Wrap individual bars in parchment paper for easy transport and a delightful homemade gift option.

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

Creating the perfect salted caramel apple crumble bars is simple with these helpful tips. Follow these steps for an even better treat!

• Use Fresh Apples – Opt for tart apples like Granny Smith for a balance of sweetness and tanginess.

• Chill the Dough – Refrigerate the crumble mixture for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps create a firmer texture.

• Bake Until Golden – Ensure you bake until the topping is golden brown. This enhances the flavor and provides a lovely crunch.

• Let it Cool – Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting. This helps them hold their shape better.

• Experiment with Spices – Feel free to add other spices like ginger or cloves to personalize your flavor profile.

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

Pairing your salted caramel apple crumble bars with delightful side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream – A classic pairing that adds creaminess and balances sweetness.
2. Cinnamon Apples – Sauté sliced apples with cinnamon and sugar for a warm, flavorful side.
3. Nutty Granola – Serve with crunchy granola sprinkled on top for added texture and nuttiness.
4. Caramel Dipping Sauce – Provide extra caramel on the side for those who crave more sweetness.
5. Cheese Plate – Pair with mild cheeses like brie or gouda; their creaminess complements the dessert well.
6. Hot Chocolate – A warm mug of rich hot chocolate makes this treat even more indulgent during chilly days.
7. Herbal Tea – A soothing herbal tea offers a light contrast, perfect after a sweet treat.
8. Fresh Fruit Salad – A refreshing fruit salad adds brightness and balances out the richness of the bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making salted caramel apple crumble bars can be fun, but there are common mistakes to watch out for.

• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough bars. Stir until just combined for a tender texture.
• Not Using Fresh Apples: Old apples can affect the taste and texture. Always choose firm, fresh apples for the best results.
• Skipping the Cooling Time: Cutting bars too soon can make them fall apart. Allow them to cool completely in the pan before slicing.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: An incorrect oven temperature can result in uneven baking. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.
• Using Low-Quality Caramel Sauce: Cheap sauces may not have the right flavor or texture. Opt for high-quality salted caramel sauce for the best taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover bars in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

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

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

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

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the bars for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars a great fall treat?

These bars combine sweet apples with rich salted caramel, making them perfect for autumn gatherings and cozy nights.

Can I use other fruits in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to substitute apples with pears or peaches for a different flavor profile.

How do I make my own salted caramel sauce?

You can make salted caramel at home by simmering sugar until it melts, then adding cream and salt.

Are these bars suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! These salted caramel apple crumble bars are great for meal prep since they store well and are easy to grab on-the-go.

How long do these bars take to prepare?

From start to finish, including baking time, they take about 1 hour and 5 minutes to prepare.

Final Thoughts

These salted caramel apple crumble bars are a delightful fall treat that brings warmth and sweetness to any occasion. They’re versatile, as you can customize them with various fruits or toppings based on your preference. Try them out, and enjoy a delicious dessert that is sure to impress family and friends!