Salted Caramel Apple Bars
Introduction
Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars are the perfect decadent treat to welcome the flavors of fall. With their luscious layers of crumbly goodness, soft caramel, and tender apples, these bars offer a cozy and satisfying dessert experience. Whether you’re serving at a gathering or indulging in some solo dessert time, this recipe is bound to become a seasonal favorite for every sweet-tooth enthusiast.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the Crust and Crumble
– All-purpose flour – 2 cups
– Light brown sugar – ½ cup
– Granulated sugar – ¼ cup
– Baking powder – 1 teaspoon
– Salted butter (cold and cubed) – ¾ cup
For the Apple Filling
– Apples (peeled, cored, and thinly sliced) – 3 medium
– Granulated sugar – ¼ cup
– Ground cinnamon – 1 teaspoon
– Lemon juice – 1 tablespoon
For the Salted Caramel
– Caramel sauce – ¾ cup
– Sea salt – ½ teaspoon
Prep Time
Preparing this delectable treat starts with 20 minutes of focused prep time. From mixing the crust to slicing apples, this stage is all about assembling the perfect layers.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
With a cook time of approximately 40 minutes, these bars reach that golden perfection in under an hour total – just 60 minutes from start to finish. This recipe yields around 12 delicious bars, perfect for sharing or savoring over a few days.
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Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal.
2. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt.
3. Add cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients and use a pastry blender or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Press the crust mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan.
5. Bake the crust for 15 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool while preparing the next layer.
Step 2: Create the Apple Filling
1. Peel, core, and dice the apples into small bite-sized pieces.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced apples, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and cornstarch. Toss until the apples are evenly coated.
3. Spread the apple mixture on top of the cooled crust in an even layer.
Step 3: Make the Crumble Topping
1. In a separate bowl, mix rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt.
2. Add cold cubed butter to the oat mixture and, using your hands or a pastry blender, mix until the topping forms crumb-like pieces.
3. Sprinkle the crumble mixture evenly over the apple filling.
Step 4: Bake the Bars
1. Bake the assembled bars in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling around the edges.
2. Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely, preferably on a wire rack.
Step 5: Drizzle with Salted Caramel
1. Once the bars are completely cooled, drizzle store-bought or homemade salted caramel sauce generously over the top.
2. Place the pan in the fridge for at least 1 hour to allow the bars to firm up for cutting.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
1. Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the bars from the baking pan onto a cutting board.
2. Carefully slice into even squares or rectangles using a sharp knife.
3. Serve the bars at room temperature or slightly chilled. Optionally, drizzle extra caramel on top before serving.
Notes
Sizing Tip
For thinner bars, use a larger baking pan and adjust the bake time accordingly.
Choosing the Right Apples
Use firm and tart apples like Granny Smith, as they hold their shape well during baking and balance the sweetness of the caramel.
Crumble Consistency
If the crumble appears too dry, add a teaspoon of cold water at a time until it clumps together.
Salted Caramel
For a homemade touch, make your salted caramel sauce in advance. Ensure it’s completely cooled before drizzling over the bars.
Storage Advice
Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave for approximately 15-20 seconds if serving warm.
Freezing Option
To freeze, wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
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Cook Techniques
Preparing the Shortbread Base
Use a pastry cutter or food processor to mix the butter, sugar, and flour until crumbly. Press evenly into the prepared pan for a firm base.
Cooking Salted Caramel
Melt sugar over medium heat in a saucepan until golden brown. Stir in butter and cream, then add a pinch of salt for balance.
Creating the Apple Filling
Slice apples thinly for even cooking. Toss the slices with sugar, cinnamon, and a hint of nutmeg for a spiced flavor.
Assembling the Layers
Spread the apple filling evenly over the shortbread base, drizzle with salted caramel, and sprinkle the crumb topping for texture.
Achieving the Perfect Crumble Topping
Combine oats, flour, butter, and sugar to form coarse crumbs, ensuring a crunchy, golden finish during baking.
Baking for an Even Texture
Bake in a preheated oven until the edges are golden brown and the apples are tender but not mushy.
FAQ
What type of apples is best for this recipe?
Firm and slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best, as they hold their shape during baking.
Can I use store-bought caramel instead of making it from scratch?
Yes, you can use store-bought caramel sauce, but homemade salted caramel adds a richer flavor.
How can I store leftover bars?
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to adapt this recipe.
Why is my crumble topping not crunchy?
Ensure you use cold butter when preparing the topping and bake until the edges are golden for a perfect crunch.
Can I freeze the bars for later use?
Yes, freeze the bars in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Conclusion
The Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars are a delightful fall treat combining the warmth of apples, the richness of caramel, and the comforting crunch of crumble. This dessert is perfect for sharing with friends and family, offering a balanced mix of sweet and salty flavors. Whether served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoyed on their own, these bars are sure to become a seasonal favorite.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Classic Pumpkin Spice Muffins
Pair your bars with pumpkin spice muffins for a complete autumn-themed dessert spread.
Cinnamon-Spiced Hot Apple Cider
Serve these bars alongside a warm mug of apple cider for a cozy pairing.
Brown Butter Pecan Tarts
Complement the salted caramel flavor with rich, nutty pecan tarts for a variety of textures.
Vanilla Bean Custard
Top your crumble bars with a dollop of vanilla bean custard to add a creamy, indulgent touch.
Homemade Whipped Cream
A dollop of fluffy whipped cream on the side perfectly elevates the dessert.
Maple Glazed Donuts
Consider maple donuts as an additional fall-inspired companion to this dish.
Spiced Pear Galette
Combine with another fruit-based dessert like a pear galette to enhance the fruity notes.
Chai Latte Cookies
Aromatic chai-flavored cookies are an excellent match for the sweet and spiced flavors in the bars.
