Ingredients
- All-purpose flour
- Rolled oats
- Brown sugar
- Granulated sugar
- Cinnamon
- Salt
- Unsalted butter
- Granny Smith apples
- Lemon juice
- Salted caramel sauce
- Vanilla extract
- Cornstarch
- Heavy cream
- Powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease an 8×8 inch baking pan and set it aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt for the crumble topping.
- Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Spread half of the crumble mixture into the prepared baking pan, pressing it down firmly.
- In a separate bowl, toss the sliced apples with the white sugar and cinnamon.
- Arrange the apple slices in an even layer over the crumble base.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter, brown sugar, and heavy cream over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and let the salted caramel sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
- Drizzle the salted caramel sauce over the apple layer.
- Sprinkle the remaining crumble topping over the caramel-coated apples.
- Bake the bars for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting and serving.
- Optionally, serve the salted caramel apple crumble bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Storage Instructions
Once you’ve indulged in the delightful salted caramel apple crumble bars, proper storage is essential to ensure they maintain their fresh and flavorful state. These bars are best kept at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you’d like to extend their shelf life, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Be sure to cover the container tightly to prevent the bars from drying out or absorbing any unwanted odors from the fridge. For longer-term storage, you can freeze the bars for up to 3 months. Simply wrap them individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to enjoy, thaw the bars at room temperature before serving.
Table of Contents
It’s important to note that the storage method you choose will depend on the climate and environment in which you live. If you reside in a particularly warm or humid climate, storing the bars in the refrigerator or freezer may be the best option to prevent spoilage. Conversely, if you live in a cooler, drier climate, keeping them at room temperature may be sufficient. Regardless of the storage method, be sure to inspect the bars for any signs of mold, discoloration, or off-odors before consuming them.
Presentation Tips
When serving your delectable salted caramel apple crumble bars, the presentation is key to elevating the overall experience. Begin by carefully cutting the bars into neat, uniform squares or rectangles, ensuring each piece showcases the perfect balance of flaky crust, gooey caramel, and tender apple filling. Arrange the bars on a clean, attractive platter or plate, leaving a bit of space between each one to allow the individual components to shine. Consider dusting the bars lightly with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of additional salted caramel sauce to add a touch of elegance and visual appeal. For an extra special touch, garnish the plate with a few fresh apple slices or a sprig of rosemary to complement the autumnal flavors.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
When making salted caramel apple crumble bars, it’s important to avoid common mistakes that can ruin the final product. One of the most common mistakes is over-baking the crust, leading to a dry and crumbly base. To prevent this, be sure to keep a close eye on the crust and remove it from the oven as soon as it’s golden brown. Another mistake is not allowing the bars to cool completely before cutting into them, resulting in a messy, crumbly texture. It’s crucial to let the bars cool completely, preferably overnight, to ensure they hold their shape when sliced. Additionally, some bakers make the mistake of using overly tart or sour apples, which can overwhelm the delicate balance of flavors. Opt for a mix of sweet and tart apples, such as Honeycrisp and Granny Smith, to achieve the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity.
Toc
Indulge in the irresistible flavors of fall with these Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars. A buttery shortbread crust is layered with a juicy apple filling, crowned with a crunchy crumble topping, and drizzled with a decadent salted caramel sauce. This delightful dessert is the perfect balance of sweet and salty, with the comforting warmth of autumn spices that will have you craving more.
Tips
When preparing the salted caramel apple crumble bars, there are a few key tips to ensure the best results. First, be sure to use high-quality, crisp apples that hold their shape well during baking. Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples work wonderfully for this recipe. Peel, core, and slice the apples thinly to create an even layer throughout the bars. Additionally, make the salted caramel sauce in advance and let it cool completely before assembling the bars. This allows the caramel to thicken to the perfect consistency for drizzling.
Faq
Salted caramel apple crumble bars are a delightful fall treat that combines the sweet and salty flavors of caramel with the tartness of apples and the crunchiness of a buttery crumble topping. These bars are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while also providing a cozy, autumnal feel. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a comforting dessert to enjoy at home, these salted caramel apple crumble bars are sure to be a hit.
Culturalstory
The origins of the salted caramel apple crumble bars can be traced back to the rich culinary traditions of Europe, where the combination of sweet and salty flavors has long been celebrated. In the fall, when the air is crisp and the leaves begin to change, the scent of baking apples and caramelized sugar wafts through the streets, evoking memories of cozy kitchens and family gatherings. This beloved treat is a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of home cooks, who have perfected the art of blending the tart, juicy apples with the indulgent, velvety caramel and the crumbly, buttery topping.
