Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars Fall Treat
Delight in the flavors of fall with these Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars Fall Treat. This dessert combines the sweetness of apples, the richness of salted caramel, and a crunchy crumble topping, making it an ideal treat for gatherings or cozy nights at home. Whether you’re hosting a Thanksgiving dinner or simply craving something sweet, this recipe is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The blend of sweet apples and rich salted caramel creates an unforgettable taste experience.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these bars in no time.
- Perfect for Sharing: Yielding 24 bars, they are great for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings.
- Versatile Dessert: Enjoy them warm with a scoop of ice cream or serve at room temperature as a delightful snack.
- Seasonal Delight: Capture the essence of fall with the warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools and prepare your kitchen. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Large mixing bowl
- Mixing spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- 9×13 inch baking pan: This size ensures even cooking and perfect portioning for your bars.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier by allowing you to lift out the entire batch once cooled.
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
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal later.
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.
Step 3: Add Flour
Add in the all-purpose flour:
1. Stir until crumbly.
2. Press about two-thirds of this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan.
Step 4: Prepare the Apple Filling
In a separate bowl, toss:
– Thinly sliced apples with ground cinnamon and ground nutmeg.
Spread this apple mixture evenly over the crust in your pan.
Step 5: Add Salted Caramel Sauce
Drizzle salted caramel sauce generously over the apple layer.
Step 6: Top with Remaining Crumble Mixture
Crumble the remaining flour mixture over the top of the apples and caramel layer for added texture.
Step 7: Bake
Bake in your preheated oven for 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 to ensure clean edges when serving.
Enjoy these Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars Fall Treat as a delightful addition to any fall gathering!
How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars Fall Treat
Serving your salted caramel apple crumble bars can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy these bars that capture the essence of fall.
Pair with Ice Cream
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic choice that complements the warm flavors of the bars.
- Cinnamon Ice Cream: Adds a spicy twist that enhances the overall taste.
Drizzle Extra Caramel Sauce
- Warm Salted Caramel: A warm drizzle adds richness and pairs perfectly with the apples.
- Chocolate Sauce: For chocolate lovers, this combo creates a delicious contrast.
Serve with Whipped Cream
- Fresh Whipped Cream: Light and airy, it balances the dense texture of the bars.
- Spiced Whipped Cream: Infuse with cinnamon for an extra layer of flavor.
Enjoy with Coffee or Tea
- Hot Apple Cider: A seasonal favorite that brings out the spiced notes in the crumble.
- Pumpkin Spice Latte: Complements the fall theme beautifully.
How to Perfect Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars Fall Treat
To make your salted caramel apple crumble bars truly irresistible, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Apples: Choose firm, crisp apples for optimal flavor and texture.
- Chill the Dough: Refrigerate your crust mixture for 30 minutes for a flakier crust.
- Layer Properly: Ensure even distribution of apples and caramel for balanced flavor in every bite.
- Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the bars; they should be golden brown but not overbaked.
- Let Cool Completely: Allowing them to cool helps achieve cleaner cuts when slicing into bars.
Best Side Dishes for Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars Fall Treat
Pairing side dishes with your salted caramel apple crumble bars can enhance your dessert spread. Consider these tasty options that complement their flavors.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses like brie and cheddar adds savory contrast to sweetness.
- Charcuterie Board: Include cured meats and olives for a savory bite against the sweet bars.
- Autumn Salad: A fresh salad with nuts and dried cranberries offers crunch and freshness.
- Pumpkin Soup: A warm bowl of pumpkin soup serves as a comforting addition to your meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide a hearty, savory balance to dessert.
- Hot Chocolate: This rich beverage pairs well for those who love indulgent treats alongside their sweets.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making salted caramel apple crumble bars, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here’s what to watch out for:
- Missing the right apples: Using the wrong type of apples can change the texture and flavor. Choose firmer varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for best results.
- Overmixing the crust: When combining ingredients for the crumble, overmixing can lead to a tough texture. Mix just until crumbly for a light and airy crust.
- Skipping the cooling time: Cutting the bars too soon can make them fall apart. Allow them to cool completely in the pan before slicing.
- Inaccurate measurements: Baking is precise work. Use measuring cups and spoons properly to avoid altering the recipe’s balance.
- Not adjusting baking time: Oven temperatures can vary. Keep an eye on your bars and adjust the baking time if necessary to achieve that golden top.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars Fall Treat
- Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars Fall Treat
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place bars on a baking sheet and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individually on medium power for about 20-30 seconds or until warm.
- Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, covered, until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about salted caramel apple crumble bars:
How do I make salted caramel sauce from scratch?
To make your own salted caramel sauce, melt sugar in a pot until it turns amber. Then stir in butter and cream while adding salt gradually.
Can I use different fruits in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute other fruits like pears or berries for a twist on this fall treat.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes approximately 24 delicious bars, perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying at home.
Can I prepare these bars ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare and bake them a day ahead. Just store them properly as described above.
Final Thoughts
Salted caramel apple crumble bars are not only a delightful fall treat but also highly versatile. You can customize them with various spices or fruits according to your taste. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars Fall Treat
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Approximately 24 servings 1x
Description
Delight in the flavors of fall with these Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars Fall Treat. This dessert beautifully pairs tender, spiced apples with rich salted caramel, all topped with a buttery, crunchy crumble. Perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings or cozy nights at home, these bars are sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 1 cup 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
- 1/2 cup salted caramel sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine melted butter, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until mixed.
- Add flour and mix until crumbly. Press two-thirds into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Toss sliced apples with cinnamon and nutmeg; spread over crust.
- Drizzle salted caramel over the apple layer.
- Crumble remaining mixture on top.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes until golden brown and apples are tender.
- Allow to cool completely before slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (50g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 95mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
