Salted Caramel Apple Bars

This Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars recipe captures the essence of autumn with its combination of tart apples, warming cinnamon, and a rich buttery crumble. The addition of homemade salted caramel brings that perfect balance of sweet and salty that makes these bars utterly addictive. Whether you want a cozy treat after dinner or a portable snack for gatherings, these bars bring a slice of fall to your kitchen anytime you need a little comfort.

I first made these bars on a chilly autumn afternoon and they quickly became the dessert I bring to every family get together. The smell filling the house alone is worth baking them for.

Ingredients

• Allpurpose flour: The foundation for the crumbly base providing structure and tenderness. Opt for unbleached for the best texture
• Oldfashioned rolled oats: Adds a wholesome chew and rustic texture to the topping and base. Choose whole oats rather than quick oats for crunch
• Light brown sugar: Adds caramel notes and moisture to the crumble. Packing the sugar firmly ensures proper sweetness
• Ground cinnamon: Brings warmth and autumnal spice. Freshly ground will give you the brightest flavor
• Salt: Balances and enhances the sweetness in the crumble mixture
• Unsalted butter: Melts into the dry ingredients creating that rich, buttery crumble. Use high quality butter for best results
• Medium apples: Choose crisp varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for tartness and good bite. Peel and core to avoid sour skins and tough bits
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the apple filling without making it too heavy
• Cornstarch: Thickens the apple juices so the filling sets nicely without running
• Lemon juice: Prevents apples from turning brown and adds brightness to the filling
• Granulated sugar: For the caramel sauce caramelizes into a rich amber syrup
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and smoothness to the caramel
• Heavy cream: Makes the caramel sauce creamy and luscious
• Sea salt: Enhances the salted caramel flavor and adds a subtle crunch when sprinkled on top

Instructions

Prepare the Crumble Mixture:

In a large bowl combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt thoroughly. Pour in the melted butter and stir gently until the mixture resembles damp sand yet clumps when pinched. This texture ensures the crumble will bake into a buttery, crisp layer.

Create the Base Layer:

Line an 8 by 8 inch baking pan with parchment paper. Press about two thirds of the crumble mixture firmly and evenly into the pan creating a solid base. Bake in a preheated 350 degrees Fahrenheit oven for 10 minutes. Allow it to cool slightly so it firms up to hold the filling.

Make the Apple Filling:

In a medium bowl toss the peeled and diced apples with granulated sugar, cinnamon, cornstarch, and lemon juice until well coated. The cornstarch prevents the filling from becoming watery while the cinnamon and lemon juice balance the flavors.

Make the Salted Caramel Sauce:

In a medium saucepan over medium heat melt the granulated sugar stirring constantly until it reaches a deep amber color signaling caramelization. Remove from heat and quickly whisk in butter followed by heavy cream to create a smooth sauce. Stir in sea salt and allow it to cool for a few minutes before using.

Add the Topping:

Spread the apple filling evenly over the pre baked crust. Drizzle half of the cooled caramel sauce over the apples. Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture on top covering the apples and caramel. Return to the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the topping is a golden brown and bubbling.

Cool and Drizzle:

Let the bars cool completely in the pan to set. Cut into squares and drizzle the remaining salted caramel on top. Finish with a pinch of flaky sea salt for an extra pop of flavor and texture.

I have fond memories of my grandmother sneaking me a warm piece straight from her pantry, telling me the caramel was her little secret ingredient. Apples bring seasonal brightness while the crumble gives that satisfying crunch you want from a fall dessert.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The crust stays crisp and the filling intensifies in flavor. For a warm treat, reheat individual bars in the microwave for 20 seconds. Avoid storing at room temperature as the caramel can soften the crumble base over time.

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap rolled oats for gluten free oats if needed but avoid instant oats as they don’t hold the right texture. Brown sugar can be replaced with coconut sugar for a deeper flavor profile. Using different apple varieties like Fuji or Gala works though tart apples give better contrast to the caramel’s sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the bars slightly warmed with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence. They are lovely with a cup of hot tea or spiced cider to bring out the autumn notes. Cut into bite sized pieces for parties or pack into lunchboxes for a sweet surprise.

These salted caramel apple crumble bars are the perfect fall bake to share and savor. Let them cool fully before slicing to keep the layers neat.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ What type of apples work best for these bars?

Tart and firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold their shape well and balance the sweetness with a bright flavor.

→ Can I prepare the caramel sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the salted caramel sauce can be made in advance and stored in the fridge. Warm slightly before using for easy drizzling.

→ How should I store these bars for best freshness?

Keep the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. This allows flavors to meld beautifully.

→ Is it possible to make the crumble topping gluten-free?

Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing texture.

→ Can I use a different sweetener instead of brown sugar?

Light brown sugar provides a deep caramel flavor, but coconut sugar or maple syrup can be used as alternatives with slight taste variations.