Why Make This Recipe
Salted Caramel Apple Crumb Bars are the perfect dessert for any occasion. They combine the comforting flavors of spiced apples with the rich taste of salted caramel, resulting in a wonderfully sweet treat. These bars are easy to make and can be enjoyed warm or cold.
Whether you are hosting a family gathering or simply want to indulge yourself, these crumb bars will surely impress. Serve them with ice cream for an extra delightful experience, and watch as they disappear from the plate.
Equipment Needed For Salted Caramel Apple Crumb Bars
To make Salted Caramel Apple Crumb Bars, a few kitchen tools will make the process easier. Here’s what you will need:
- A 9×13-inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- A whisk
- A pastry blender or two forks
- Measuring cups and spoons
- A cutting board
- A sharp knife
- A wire rack
With these basic tools, you’ll be well-equipped to create these delicious bars in your kitchen.
What You Need to Make Salted Caramel Apple Crumb Bars
To make these mouth-watering bars, gather the following ingredients:
5 cups peeled and diced apples (I used Granny Smith)
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground all-spice
3/4 cup Salted Caramel Sauce (can use store bought)
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
1 egg, lightly beaten
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Vanilla ice cream and extra salted caramel sauce, optional
How to Cook Salted Caramel Apple Crumb Bars Step by Step
Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees F. Prepare your 9×13-inch baking pan by spraying it with cooking spray and setting it aside for later use.
Next, prepare the apple filling. In a large bowl, place the diced apples and sprinkle them with fresh lemon juice. Mix the apples gently to ensure they are coated evenly. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ground all-spice. Once combined, pour this mixture over the apples and carefully combine everything. Set this aside to let the flavors meld.
Now, it’s time to make the dough. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Take your cold unsalted butter and cut it into the flour mixture using a pastry blender or your fingers. You want to mix it until the butter is incorporated but still has small chunks. In a separate small bowl, mix the beaten egg and vanilla extract. Add this mixture into the flour and butter combination. Stir until everything comes together into a crumbly dough.
Once your dough is ready, take half of it and pat it down evenly into the prepared baking pan to form the bottom crust. Spread the apple mixture over this crust so it covers it completely. Then, take the salted caramel sauce and drizzle it generously over the apple filling. With the remaining dough, crumble it over the apple-caramel layer, then pat it gently to secure.
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for around 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. After baking, let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, cut them into squares for serving. These bars are delightful on their own or served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of extra salted caramel sauce.
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the bars for up to 3 months. Enjoy the flavors whenever you like!
How To Make Salted Caramel Apple Crumb Bars
Making Salted Caramel Apple Crumb Bars is a great way to showcase the flavors of apples and caramel. Start by gathering all your ingredients and equipment to streamline the cooking process. This will help avoid any unnecessary interruptions during preparation.
Preheating the oven prepares your space for baking while creating the perfect environment for your bars to set and become golden brown. Take the time to prepare your apples properly, as they play a crucial role in the overall taste. Using a variety of spices elevates the flavor profile, making these bars comforting and festive.
The combination of crumbly dough and gooey filling creates a wonderful texture that balances perfectly. The baking time is critical, so keep an eye on the oven to ensure your bars come out just right. Let them cool completely to enhance the flavor before cutting them.
How To Serve Salted Caramel Apple Crumb Bars
Serving Salted Caramel Apple Crumb Bars can be as simple or elaborate as you wish. For an everyday treat, cut them into squares and serve them plain. They hold up well at room temperature, making them great for picnics or casual gatherings.
If you’re looking to impress guests at a dinner party, consider plating them warm. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on top adds a delightful creaminess that complements the warm bars. Drizzle some extra salted caramel sauce over the top for a sweet finishing touch. This presentation is sure to make your dessert stand out!
What To Serve With Salted Caramel Apple Crumb Bars
When serving Salted Caramel Apple Crumb Bars, you can enhance the meal with complementary items. A scoop of vanilla ice cream is a classic pairing that adds a rich, creamy texture to the sweet bars.
Consider serving them alongside a warm cup of chai or spiced cider during fall gatherings. The spices in these drinks pair beautifully with the flavors of the bars. You may also want to offer whipped cream or a dollop of cream cheese frosting for added indulgence.
How To Store Salted Caramel Apple Crumb Bars
Storing Salted Caramel Apple Crumb Bars properly ensures they maintain their taste and texture. After the bars have cooled completely, cut them into squares. Place the pieces into an airtight container.
You can store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you wish to keep them longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe zip-top bag or container to prevent freezer burn. They can be enjoyed directly from the freezer or thawed at room temperature.
Tips To Make Salted Caramel Apple Crumb Bars
To ensure your Salted Caramel Apple Crumb Bars turn out delicious, you can follow a few helpful tips. First, choose fresh, firm apples, like Granny Smith, which hold their shape well during baking.
Make sure not to skip the lemon juice, as it helps prevent the apples from browning and adds a bit of brightness to the flavor. Use cold butter for the dough to create a flaky texture. If you prefer a sweeter dessert, you can adjust the sugar in the apple filling according to your taste.
Finally, don’t rush the cooling process. Letting the bars cool completely allows for clean cuts and better flavor.
Variation
You can customize your Salted Caramel Apple Crumb Bars easily by exploring different flavor variations. For a nutty twist, consider adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the crumbles. This not only adds an extra layer of flavor but also a pleasing crunch.
If you’re looking to switch up the filling, try using pears or a mix of apples and pears. You could also incorporate spices such as ginger or cardamom for a unique taste. Switching the salted caramel with chocolate sauce opens a whole new dimension of flavors while still retaining that delicious sweet treat essence.
Best Time To Make Salted Caramel Apple Crumb Bars
Salted Caramel Apple Crumb Bars are best made during apple season, which typically runs from late summer through early fall. This is when apples are at their freshest and most flavorful, providing the best taste in your dessert.
However, they can be enjoyed year-round with either fresh or stored apples. They make excellent additions to fall gatherings, Thanksgiving dinners, or any cozy gathering during cooler months. Their comforting flavors are perfect for liver events or casual family bonding moments.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
While making Salted Caramel Apple Crumb Bars, there are common mistakes to watch out for in order to achieve the best results. One common pitfall is overmixing the dough, which can lead to a dense texture rather than the desired crumbliness. Remember to mix until just combined for optimal results.
Another mistake is not cooling the bars completely before cutting. This can cause them to crumble and fall apart, making it difficult to serve. It’s important to allow proper cooling time for the best presentation.
Lastly, don’t overlook the importance of the baking time. Every oven is different, so keeping an eye on the bars as they bake is crucial for that perfect golden brown finish.
Nutritional Notes
For those who are conscious of their dietary choices, it’s important to consider the nutritional content of Salted Caramel Apple Crumb Bars. Each square contains carbs from the flour, sugars from the apples and caramel, and healthy fats from the butter.
If you’re looking for a healthier version, consider using whole wheat flour or substituting some of the sugar with natural sweeteners, like honey or maple syrup. Additionally, reducing the amount of salted caramel sauce can help lower the overall sugar content.
FAQs
Can I make Salted Caramel Apple Crumb Bars ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these bars ahead of time. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for about three months.
Can I use other types of apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples work great due to their tartness, feel free to use other varieties or a mix for a different flavor profile.
Is it necessary to use salted caramel sauce?
While salted caramel gives an added depth of flavor, you can use regular caramel sauce if you prefer. If you enjoy sweets, consider adding a pinch of sea salt to enhance the taste.
Conclusion
Salted Caramel Apple Crumb Bars are the ideal dessert for any occasion. Their delightful combination of fresh apples and rich salted caramel creates a treat that is simply irresistible. With easy-to-follow steps and minor adjustments, you can make these bars your own.
Whether served warm with ice cream or cold for a snack, they are sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Enjoy making this delicious recipe and savor every sweet bite!
Salted Caramel Apple Crumb Bars
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) and prepare a 9x13-inch baking pan by spraying it with cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, place the diced apples and sprinkle them with fresh lemon juice. Mix gently to coat.
- In another bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup flour, cornstarch, 1 cup sugar, 1/4 tsp salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and all-spice. Pour over the apples and combine.
- In a large bowl, whisk together 3 cups flour, 1 cup sugar, baking powder, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp cinnamon.
- Cut the cold unsalted butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a small bowl, mix the beaten egg and vanilla extract, then stir into the flour and butter mixture until crumbly.
- Pat half of the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan to form the bottom crust.
- Spread the apple mixture over the crust, drizzle with salted caramel sauce, then crumble the remaining dough over the top.
- Bake for about 45 minutes or until the top is golden brown. Let cool completely before cutting.
