Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars have truly captured my heart as the ultimate autumn treat. There’s just something magical about that first bite – warm, gooey apples mingling with a rich, salty-sweet caramel, all nestled under a perfectly crunchy crumble topping. This easy salted caramel apple crumble recipe is my go-to whenever the leaves start to turn and I’m craving those cozy, comforting flavors. I remember making these for the first time last fall, and the aroma that filled my kitchen was absolutely divine. If you’re looking for a truly delicious way to celebrate the season, you simply must try this homemade salted caramel apple crumble. Let’s get baking!
Why You’ll Love This Salted Caramel Apple Crumble
This easy salted caramel apple crumble recipe is a winner for so many reasons. It’s incredibly simple to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
- It’s an easy salted caramel apple crumble that anyone can master.
- The quick prep time means you can enjoy dessert sooner!
- You’ll adore the perfect balance of sweet, tart apples and rich, buttery salted caramel.
- It delivers those comforting, warm autumn flavors we all crave.
- This is a truly family-friendly dessert that everyone will adore.
- It’s like an apple crumble with caramel sauce turned into a delightful bar.
- Get ready for that irresistible sweet and salty apple crumble combination.
- A guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients for Salted Caramel Apple Crumble
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this amazing salted caramel apple crumble. You’ll need a few key components to bring this dessert to life. For the crust and crumble, we start with basics like 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, ½ cup rolled oats for texture, and ½ cup brown sugar, packed for sweetness. We add ½ teaspoon baking powder for a little lift and ¼ teaspoon salt to balance the sweetness. Then, ½ cup unsalted butter, melted binds it all together, creating that perfect crumbly base and topping for our caramelized apple crumble.
For the apple filling, you’ll want about 3 cups apples, peeled and diced – Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work wonderfully. A tablespoon of lemon juice keeps them fresh, while ½ cup granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon nutmeg create that classic warm apple pie flavor.
Finally, the star of the show: the salted caramel. You’ll need 1 cup granulated sugar, 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, chopped into pieces, and ½ cup heavy cream. A generous ½ teaspoon of sea salt is crucial for that signature sweet and salty contrast.
How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Crumble
Ready to create some magic? Learning how to make salted caramel apple crumble is easier than you think! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be enjoying these delightful bars in no time.
- Step 1: First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, grab a 9×9-inch baking dish and give it a good grease so nothing sticks.
- Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, ½ cup rolled oats, ½ cup brown sugar, packed, ½ teaspoon baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Give it a good stir until everything is nicely combined.
- Step 3: Pour in the ½ cup melted unsalted butter and mix with a fork until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. Now, here’s a little trick for the best texture: reserve about ½ cup of this crumble mixture for the topping later.
- Step 4: Take the remaining crumb mixture and spread it evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Press it down firmly with your fingers or the bottom of a glass to create a nice, even base. Bake this crust for about 15-20 minutes, or until it’s just lightly golden.
- Step 5: While the crust is baking, prepare your apple filling. In a large bowl, toss the 3 cups of diced apples with 1 tablespoon lemon juice, ½ cup granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon nutmeg. This blend makes for a beautifully spiced apple layer.
- Step 6: Now for the star: the salted caramel! In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 cup granulated sugar. Resist the urge to stir it right away; just let it melt and turn a beautiful, deep amber color. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
- Step 7: Once your sugar is caramelized, carefully add the 6 tablespoons of chopped unsalted butter. Stir until it’s completely melted. Then, slowly mix in the ½ cup heavy cream. It might bubble up a bit, so be cautious! Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the ½ teaspoon sea salt. This is what makes it truly special.
- Step 8: Once the crust has cooled slightly, spread the prepared apple mixture evenly over it. Then, drizzle that luscious salted caramel all over the apples, making sure to get good coverage.
- Step 9: Sprinkle the reserved crumble mixture evenly over the caramel and apples. This topping adds that irresistible crunch we all love in a good crumble.
- Step 10: Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for another 25-30 minutes. You’re looking for the topping to be golden brown and the apples to be tender and bubbly.
- Step 11: Once it’s out of the oven, let your salted caramel apple crumble cool in the dish for at least 15-30 minutes. This helps it set up, making it much easier to slice into perfect bars.
Pro Tips for the Best Salted Caramel Apple Crumble
Want to elevate your salted caramel apple crumble game? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make all the difference.
- For the absolute best salted caramel apple crumble, make sure your apples are crisp and slightly tart; Granny Smith is my favorite.
- Don’t overmix the crumble topping ingredients; a slightly uneven texture is perfect for that rustic charm.
- When making the caramel, be patient! A deep amber color means richer flavor.
- Adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the crumble topping provides an extra layer of texture and flavor.
What’s the secret to perfect salted caramel apple crumble?
The real secret to a perfect salted caramel apple crumble is achieving that ideal balance between the sweet, tender apples, the rich, buttery caramel, and the crisp, crumbly topping. Using high-quality ingredients and not over-handling the dough is key. For more baking inspiration, check out our recipes.
Can I make salted caramel apple crumble bars ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the bars completely (up to the final baking step) and refrigerate them, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time. They also store well once baked. If you’re interested in other make-ahead desserts, consider our Romanian Fried Meatballs.
How do I avoid common mistakes with salted caramel apple crumble?
To avoid a soggy salted caramel apple crumble, ensure your crust is pre-baked until lightly golden. Also, be careful not to burn the caramel; watch it closely as it turns amber. Lastly, let the bars cool sufficiently before slicing to allow them to set properly. For more tips on baking, you might find resources on ingredient properties helpful.
Best Ways to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Crumble
These salted caramel apple crumble bars are fantastic on their own, but serving them warm takes them to a whole new level. They are absolutely divine with a scoop of creamy vanilla bean ice cream melting into the warm crumble and sweet apples. A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a lovely lightness, too. These bars are perfect for enjoying throughout the fall season, fitting right in with all your favorite autumn apple crumble recipes. For other seasonal favorites, explore our Jalapeno Buffalo Chicken Casserole.
For an extra special treat, consider a drizzle of extra salted caramel sauce right before serving. It’s a simple addition that really elevates the dessert and brings out that irresistible sweet and salty combination.
Nutrition Facts for Salted Caramel Apple Crumble
When you’re diving into these delicious Salted Caramel Apple Crumble bars, it’s helpful to know what you’re getting. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving, keeping in mind that recipes can vary slightly.
- Calories: Approx. 350-400
- Sugar: Approx. 30-40g
- Sodium: Approx. 200-300mg
- Fat: Approx. 18-25g
- Saturated Fat: Approx. 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: Approx. 45-55g
- Fiber: Approx. 2-3g
- Protein: Approx. 3-4g
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. For more information on healthy eating, you can refer to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
How to Store and Reheat Salted Caramel Apple Crumble
Once your delicious salted caramel apple crumble bars have cooled completely, proper storage is key to keeping them tasting fresh. I usually let them cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack until fully chilled. If you plan to enjoy them within a few days, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, they can be kept in the refrigerator for up to a week. Remember, proper storing apple crumble helps maintain its texture. For other storage tips, see our Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo.
If you want to keep these bars even longer, you can freeze them! Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. They’ll stay good in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, you can gently warm them in a low oven (around 300°F or 150°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, a quick zap in the microwave works too, though be careful not to overheat.
Frequently Asked Questions About Salted Caramel Apple Crumble
What is salted caramel apple crumble?
A salted caramel apple crumble is a delightful dessert featuring a base of tender, spiced apples, topped with a gooey, rich salted caramel sauce, and finished with a buttery, crisp crumble topping. It’s a fantastic twist on a classic apple crumble, adding that irresistible sweet and salty element. For more dessert ideas, check out our Zucchini Noodle Chicken Alfredo.
Can I make a quick salted caramel apple crumble?
Absolutely! While making caramel from scratch takes a little patience, the overall process for these bars is quite straightforward. Using pre-made caramel sauce can speed things up, or simply focusing on a good balance of flavors makes it feel like a quick salted caramel apple crumble experience.
What apples are best for salted caramel apple crumble?
For the best flavor and texture in your salted caramel apple crumble, I recommend using firm, tart apples like Granny Smith. They hold their shape well during baking and their tartness perfectly balances the sweetness of the caramel and crumble. Honeycrisp or Fuji apples also work wonderfully!
What if my salted caramel apple crumble is too sweet?
If you find your crumble too sweet, the key is the salt! Ensure you use a good quality sea salt in both the caramel and the crumble mixture. A squeeze of lemon juice on the apples before baking also adds a bright, tart note that cuts through the sweetness.
Variations of Salted Caramel Apple Crumble You Can Try
Once you’ve mastered the classic Salted Caramel Apple Crumble, why stop there? This versatile dessert is a fantastic base for all sorts of delicious twists. For those looking for dietary alternatives, a gluten-free salted caramel apple crumble is easily achieved by swapping regular flour for a good quality gluten-free blend. Similarly, creating a vegan salted caramel apple crumble is simple – just substitute the butter with vegan butter or coconut oil and use full-fat coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different fruit fillings, too! Pears or a mix of berries can offer a delightful change. For an added crunch and nutty flavor, consider incorporating chopped pecans or walnuts into the crumble topping. Each variation offers a unique spin on this beloved dessert. For another great recipe, try our Teriyaki Chicken Sheet Pan Supper.
PrintSalted Caramel Apple Crumble: Amazing Treat
Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars are a delightful autumn treat. They combine sweet apples, rich salted caramel, and a crunchy crumble topping. These bars are easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (plus cooling time)
- Yield: 9-12 bars 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- For the Crust and Crumble:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup rolled oats
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- For the Apple Filling:
- 3 cups apples, peeled and diced (about 4 medium apples)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- For the Salted Caramel:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, chopped into pieces
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir until evenly mixed.
- Pour in melted butter and mix until crumbly. Reserve ½ cup of the mixture for the crumble topping.
- Spread the remaining mixture evenly into the bottom of the baking dish, pressing firmly. Bake for 15-20 minutes until lightly golden.
- In a large bowl, toss diced apples with lemon juice, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt sugar, stirring continuously until it turns a deep amber color. This takes around 5-7 minutes.
- Add the chopped butter and stir until melted, then gradually mix in the heavy cream. Remove from heat and stir in sea salt.
- Once the crust is cooled slightly, spread the apple filling evenly over it. Drizzle the salted caramel on top, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
- Sprinkle the reserved crumble mixture evenly over the caramel and apples.
- Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the apples are tender.
- Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool in the dish for at least 15-30 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- Use fresh, crisp apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best results.
- Add cloves or allspice to the apple filling for extra warmth.
- Chill the caramel slightly before drizzling for better consistency.
- Consider adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the crumble topping for added crunch.
- A splash of vanilla or almond extract in the caramel can enhance the flavor.
- For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend.
- For a vegan option, substitute butter with coconut oil and heavy cream with coconut cream.
- Add a cream cheese layer for a cheesecake twist.
- Swap apples for pears or berries for a different fruit filling.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Freeze wrapped bars for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: Approx. 350-400
- Sugar: Approx. 30-40g
- Sodium: Approx. 200-300mg
- Fat: Approx. 18-25g
- Saturated Fat: Approx. 10-15g
- Unsaturated Fat: Approx. 8-10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: Approx. 45-55g
- Fiber: Approx. 2-3g
- Protein: Approx. 3-4g
- Cholesterol: Approx. 50-70mg
