Salted Caramel Apple Crisp Bars

Introduction

The crisp autumn air, the smell of falling leaves, and the warm flavors of apples and caramel—these elements create a perfect backdrop for a delightful fall treat. Recently, I baked a batch of Salted Caramel Apple Crisp Bars, and they quickly became a family favorite. The buttery shortbread crust paired with juicy apple filling, an irresistible oatmeal crumb topping, and a drizzle of salted caramel was a hit at our weekend gathering. Even my kids, who are usually picky about desserts, couldn’t resist going back for seconds! Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or just looking for a comforting dessert to enjoy at home, these bars will not disappoint.

Ingredients (Yields 16 squares)

For the Shortbread Crust:

• 1/2 cup salted butter, room temperature
• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Salted Caramel Apple Filling:

• 4 cups peeled and thinly sliced apples (about 4-5 apples)
• 1/4 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

For the Topping:

• 6 tablespoons salted butter, room temperature
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup oatmeal (old-fashioned or quick)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Additional caramel for drizzling (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 or 9×9 inch square pan with parchment paper. This step is optional, but it makes removing the bars easier.

2. Prepare the Shortbread Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine the room-temperature butter, flour, brown sugar, and salt. Mix until the mixture resembles crumbs. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake the crust for 12 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.

3. Prepare the Apple Filling

Core, peel, and thinly slice the apples to make about 4 cups. In a small bowl, combine the caramel sauce, salt, cinnamon, brown sugar, and flour. Stir until smooth. Pour this caramel mixture over the apples and gently toss to coat. Spoon the apple mixture evenly over the pre-baked crust, pressing down gently to ensure an even layer.

4. Make the Oatmeal Crumb Topping

In a medium bowl, use a fork or your hands to combine the room-temperature butter, brown sugar, flour, oatmeal, and cinnamon until the mixture is crumbly. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the apples and gently press down to adhere.

5. Bake the Bars

Bake for an additional 35-40 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.

6. Serve

Let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. For clean edges, allow the bars to cool fully. Drizzle with additional caramel sauce and sprinkle with a little extra salt if desired. Serve as is or pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat!

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Serving Size: 1 bar
• Calories: 220
• Total Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 100mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 32g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 14g
• Protein: 2g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve warm or at room temperature.
• Drizzle with additional salted caramel sauce.
• Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
• Garnish with a sprinkle of sea salt for extra flavor.
• Pair with a cup of hot cider or coffee.

Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Apples: For the best flavor and texture, use a mix of sweet and tart apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp.
2. Make Your Own Caramel Sauce: If you have time, homemade caramel sauce adds an extra layer of flavor.
3. Allow to Cool: Let the bars cool fully in the pan before cutting to ensure clean edges.
4. Storage: Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
5. Adjust Sweetness: Taste the apple filling before baking and adjust the sugar according to the sweetness of your apples.

Recipe Variations

• Add Nuts: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the topping for added crunch.
• Add Dried Fruit: Mix in some raisins or dried cranberries with the apple filling for extra flavor.
• Spice It Up: Experiment with spices like nutmeg or ginger in the filling for a different flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Vegan Version: Replace butter with vegan butter and use maple syrup instead of caramel.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve as a dessert after a hearty fall meal.
• Great for potlucks or family gatherings.
• Pair with coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack.
• Excellent for holiday parties or as a sweet treat during Thanksgiving.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: You can freeze the bars for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
• Storing: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of crust?

• Yes, you can use a graham cracker crust or a cookie crust if you prefer.

1. What kind of apples are best for this recipe?

• A mix of sweet and tart apples like Granny Smith and Fuji or Honeycrisp works well.

1. Can I make these bars ahead of time?

• Absolutely! You can make them a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator.

1. Is it necessary to chill the bars before cutting?

• Yes, chilling allows the bars to set and makes cutting them easier.

1. What if I don’t have caramel sauce?

• You can make a simple caramel sauce with sugar, butter, and cream, or use a different sweet sauce like maple syrup.

1. Can I double this recipe?

• Yes, you can double the ingredients and use a larger pan; adjust the baking time accordingly.

1. Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

• Yes, quick oats can be used, but rolled oats provide a better texture.

1. How do I know when the bars are done baking?

• The topping should be golden brown, and the apples should be tender.

1. Can I add more spices?

• Yes, feel free to experiment with additional spices like nutmeg or allspice.

1. Are these bars suitable for a gluten-free diet?

• Yes, by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, these bars can be made gluten-free.

Conclusion

These Salted Caramel Apple Crisp Bars are a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of fall. With their buttery shortbread crust, juicy apple filling, and crunchy oatmeal topping, they are a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy. Drizzled with salted caramel, these bars are not just a dessert; they are an experience. Whether you’re sharing them with family or keeping them all to yourself, these bars will bring warmth and comfort to any occasion. So, preheat that oven and get ready to indulge in a slice of autumn bliss!

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