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These salted caramel apple crumble bars bring homemade fall comfort in every bite. They are a delightful blend of crisp apples, warm spices, and rich salted caramel topped with a buttery crumble that always makes weekdays feel special. Perfect for a cozy gathering or just a sweet weekend treat.
I once made these bars on a whim when a guest stopped by unexpectedly and they instantly became my favorite dessert to offer.
Ingredients
- Unsalted butter: melted provides the rich and tender base for the crumble topping it is important to use unsalted for precise control over the saltiness
- Granulated sugar: sweetens the crumble and helps with browning choose a fine texture for even mixing
- Vanilla extract: brings warmth and aroma enhancing the caramel flavor
- Salt: balances the sweetness amplifying the salted caramel notes use fine sea salt for best results
- All-purpose flour: forms the sturdy yet tender crumble structure pick a fresh bag for optimal baking
- Peeled and thinly sliced apples: add juicy tartness select firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp to hold shape and texture
- Salted caramel sauce: is the star that adds creamy salt-sweet depth opt for a high-quality jarred sauce or homemade if possible
- Ground cinnamon and nutmeg: provide classic spice warmth to complement the apples fresh ground spices make a noticeable difference
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and line a 9 by 13 inch baking pan with parchment paper allowing for easy removal and cleanup
- Make the Crumble Mixture:
- In a large bowl combine melted unsalted butter sugar vanilla extract and salt. Stir in all-purpose flour until the mixture turns crumbly. You want a texture like coarse crumbs that will press firmly but not compact too much
- Press Base Layer:
- Reserve about two-thirds of the crumble mixture and press it evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Press firmly but not too hard creating a uniform base that will crisp up nicely during baking
- Prepare the Apples:
- In a separate bowl toss peeled thinly sliced apples with ground cinnamon and nutmeg making sure every slice is well coated with spice
- Layer the Apples:
- Spread the spiced apples evenly over the crumble crust pressing them down gently to create an even layer but not compacting too tightly
- Add Salted Caramel and Topping:
- Drizzle the salted caramel sauce evenly over the apples then crumble the remaining flour mixture on top covering the caramel and apples completely to form a textured topping
- Bake:
- Place the pan in the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes until the crumble topping is golden brown and the apples underneath are tender when pierced with a fork
- Cool and Serve:
- Remove from oven and allow the bars to cool fully in the pan. This resting time helps everything set up so you can cut clean bars that hold together perfectly
My favorite ingredient has to be the salted caramel sauce. The combination of buttery sweetness with a touch of salt always reminds me of cozy autumn evenings spent baking with my grandmother where caramel desserts stole the show every time.
Storage tips
Store fully cooled bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage wrap tightly and refrigerate for up to one week. These bars also freeze well when cut into individual portions wrapped in plastic and then foil for up to three months.
Ingredient swaps
If salted caramel sauce is hard to find you can make a simple caramel by melting sugar with butter and then stirring in a pinch of sea salt. For the apples try Fuji or Pink Lady for a slightly sweeter and less tart alternative. Swap all-purpose flour for whole wheat pastry flour to add a nutty dimension and extra fiber.
Serving ideas
Serve bars slightly warmed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent finish. They also shine alongside a cup of hot tea or spiced cider for seasonal charm.
Enjoy these bars as a comforting treat any time of year with the perfect balance of sweet and spice.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → What type of apples work best for these bars?
Firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold their shape well and balance the sweetness from the caramel.
- → Can I use homemade salted caramel sauce?
Absolutely, homemade caramel adds a fresh, rich flavor, but store-bought sauces are a convenient alternative.
- → How should I store the bars after baking?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness and softness for several days.
- → Can I prepare the bars in advance?
Yes, assemble ahead and bake just before serving to enjoy the crumbled topping at its peak texture.
- → Is it possible to make these gluten-free?
Replacing the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend can work, but texture may vary slightly.