Delicious Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars: Perfect Fall Treat!

Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars Fall Treat – just reading those words conjures images of cozy autumn evenings, doesn’t it? I truly believe there’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a dessert that perfectly captures the essence of fall. This isn’t just another apple recipe; it’s a symphony of textures and flavors designed to delight your senses. Imagine tender, spiced apples, gently cooked until soft, then enrobed in a rich, buttery, and utterly irresistible salted caramel sauce. This delightful filling is nestled between a golden, oat-flecked crumble base and a generous, crumbly topping that provides the perfect textural contrast. The hint of sea salt against the sweet caramel and tart apples creates an utterly addictive balance that will have everyone reaching for a second piece.

While classic apple crumbles have long been a beloved staple of autumn gatherings, elevating them into convenient bar form makes them effortlessly portable and perfect for any occasion, from potlucks to a simple afternoon treat with coffee. We’re taking a timeless classic and giving it a modern, irresistible twist that makes it uniquely special.

These Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars Fall Treat are not only incredibly satisfying but also surprisingly easy to prepare, bringing warmth and joy to your kitchen as the leaves begin to turn.

Prepare to fall in love with your new favorite seasonal indulgence!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Shortbread Base:
  • 2 ½ cups (300g) all-purpose flour
  • ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, very cold and cut into ½-inch cubes
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• For the Apple Filling:
  • 6 medium-sized apples (about 2 ½ to 3 pounds), a mix of Granny Smith for tartness and Honeycrisp or Fuji for sweetness and texture works beautifully. I always recommend a blend for the best flavor balance!
  • ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar (adjust based on apple sweetness)
  • 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (this helps thicken the filling)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Pinch of ground cloves (optional, but adds a lovely warmth)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (prevents browning and brightens the flavor)
• For the Crumble Topping:
  • 1 ½ cups (180g) all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • ½ cup (110g) packed light brown sugar
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, very cold and cut into ½-inch cubes
  • ½ cup (45g) old-fashioned rolled oats (not instant)
• For the Salted Caramel Drizzle:
  • ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • ¼ cup (60ml) heavy cream, warmed
  • 2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt flakes, plus more for sprinkling
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • Alternatively, 1 bottle (around 12-16 oz) high-quality store-bought salted caramel sauce. No judgment here, sometimes convenience is key for a busy fall afternoon!

Preparing the Shortbread Base

1. Preheat and Prep: First things first, let’s get our oven ready. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). I always find that a properly preheated oven is the secret to consistent baking. Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the longer sides. This parchment paper sling will be your best friend when it comes to lifting the cooled bars out of the pan cleanly. I also like to lightly grease the pan before placing the parchment to help it stay put.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, ¾ cup of granulated sugar, and ½ teaspoon of salt for the shortbread base. Give it a good whisk to ensure everything is evenly distributed. This dry mixture forms the foundation of our wonderfully buttery base for these delightful Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars Fall Treat.
3. Cut in the Butter: Now comes the fun part, or at least the most crucial part for a flaky shortbread. Add the very cold, cubed 1 cup of unsalted butter to your dry ingredients. Using a pastry blender, two knives, or even your fingertips (just work quickly so the butter doesn’t get too warm), cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs, with some pieces of butter still about the size of small peas. Do not overmix! Those little pieces of butter are what create that beautiful, tender texture we’re aiming for.
4. Add Wet Ingredients: In a small separate bowl, whisk together the 1 large egg yolk and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Pour this mixture over your butter and flour crumbs.
5. Form the Dough: Using your hands, gently mix and knead the dough until it just comes together. It should form a cohesive ball, but still be quite soft. Again, resist the urge to overwork it, as that can lead to a tough base. We want tender, melt-in-your-mouth shortbread!
6. Press into Pan: Transfer the shortbread dough to your prepared 9×13-inch baking pan. Using your fingertips or the bottom of a flat glass, evenly press the dough into the bottom of the pan. Make sure it’s packed down firmly and extends to all edges. If the dough starts to stick, you can lightly flour your fingers.
7. Pre-bake the Base: Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake the shortbread base for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. This pre-baking step is essential; it ensures the base is firm enough to support the filling and prevents it from becoming soggy later on. Remove it from the oven and set it aside to cool slightly while you prepare the apple filling.

Crafting the Apple Filling

1. Prepare the Apples: This is where the magic really starts for our Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars. Peel, core, and dice your 6 medium-sized apples into ½-inch pieces. I find this size ensures they cook evenly and are tender but still have a bit of bite, which is what I love in an apple crumble bar. Place them immediately into a large bowl and toss with 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice to prevent browning.
2. Sauté the Apples: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the diced apples, ½ cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and a pinch of ground cloves (if using). Stir everything together until the apples are well coated.
3. Cook Down the Apples: Cook the apple mixture for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples have softened slightly but are still holding their shape. They should release some of their juices. We’re not aiming for apple sauce here, just a head start on the cooking process. This partial cooking prevents the apples from being too watery in the final bars and ensures they are perfectly tender.
4. Thicken the Filling: Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour over the apples and stir well. Continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, allowing the flour to absorb some of the liquid and thicken the filling. The flour acts as a binding agent, ensuring our filling isn’t too runny. Remove from heat and set aside.

Assembling the Crumble Topping

1. Combine Dry Topping Ingredients: In a separate large mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of granulated sugar, ½ cup of packed light brown sugar, ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon of salt for the crumble topping. Whisk these together until they are well combined. The brown sugar adds a lovely molasses note that complements the apples perfectly.
2. Cut in the Butter (Again!): Add the ½ cup of very cold, cubed unsalted butter to the dry crumble mixture. Using your pastry blender, two knives, or fingertips, cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, similar to what we did for the shortbread base. You want some pea-sized pieces of butter remaining. This is crucial for achieving that irresistible crunchy-chewy crumble texture that everyone adores.
3. Add Oats: Finally, stir in the ½ cup of old-fashioned rolled oats. The oats add a wonderful chewiness and a rustic texture that truly elevates these Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars Fall Treat. Mix until just combined.

Layering and Baking

1. Layer the Filling: Evenly spread your slightly cooled apple filling over the warm, pre-baked shortbread base in the pan. Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to ensure an even layer from edge to edge.
2. Sprinkle the Crumble: Generously sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the apple layer. Don’t press it down; we want it to remain light and crumbly. Make sure to cover the apples completely for that quintessential crumble experience.
3. Bake to Perfection: Return the pan to your preheated 375°F (190°C) oven. Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the crumble topping is beautifully golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling around the edges. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen smells absolutely heavenly, truly capturing the essence of a fall treat! If the crumble starts to get too dark too quickly, you can loosely tent the pan with aluminum foil.
4. Cool Completely: This step requires patience, but it’s absolutely vital for perfect bars. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool completely. I mean completely! This will take at least 2-3 hours, or even longer. Resist the urge to cut into them warm; the filling needs to set fully to ensure clean, beautiful slices. If you try to cut them too soon, they will be a delicious, gooey mess, but not in bar form.

The Grand Finale: Salted Caramel Drizzle

1. Prepare for Caramel (Homemade Option): If you’re making your own salted caramel, have all your ingredients measured and ready, as caramel making moves quickly! In a medium-sized, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the ½ cup of granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons of water. Swirl the pan gently to moisten all the sugar, but do not stir.
2. Cook the Caramel: Place the saucepan over medium-high heat. Let the sugar mixture cook, undisturbed, until it turns a beautiful amber color. This usually takes about 5-8 minutes. Keep a close eye on it; it can go from perfect to burnt in a matter of seconds!
3. Add Cream and Butter: Once it’s a rich amber, immediately and carefully pour in the warm ¼ cup of heavy cream (it will bubble up violently, so be cautious!). Stir vigorously with a heatproof spatula or whisk until smooth. Then, add the 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and ½ teaspoon of sea salt flakes. Continue to stir until the butter is fully melted and incorporated, and the caramel is smooth and glossy. Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract.
4. Cool the Caramel: Pour the finished caramel into a heatproof bowl or jar and let it cool for at least 30 minutes, or until it’s thick enough to drizzle but still pourable. If it cools too much, you can gently reheat it in the microwave in 15-second intervals, stirring in between.
5. The Easy Route (Store-Bought): If you opted for store-bought salted caramel, simply warm it gently in the microwave or a small saucepan until it’s a drizzly consistency. You might want to stir in a tiny pinch of extra sea salt flakes for that perfect “salted” touch, as store-bought can sometimes be less intense.
6. Drizzle and Serve: Once your Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars are completely cool, lift them out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Transfer them to a cutting board. Drizzle generously with your prepared salted caramel sauce. For an extra touch of gourmet appeal and that crucial salty contrast, sprinkle a few more sea salt flakes over the top of the caramel.
7. Cut and Enjoy: Use a sharp knife to cut the bars into squares or rectangles. I usually aim for 12 or 16 bars, depending on how generous I’m feeling! Clean your knife between cuts for the neatest edges. These are truly the ultimate Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars Fall Treat – perfect for sharing, or for savoring all by yourself with a cup of coffee. They keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen, undrizzled, for longer storage. Enjoy every delightful, apple-caramel-crumble bite!

Conclusion:

Well, my friends, if you’ve journeyed with me through this delightful recipe, you’re now privy to the secrets behind creating one of the most irresistible autumn desserts you could ever imagine. I honestly believe that once you experience the symphony of flavors and textures in these bars, they will claim a permanent spot in your seasonal baking repertoire. This isn’t just another apple dessert; it’s a carefully crafted indulgence where every element plays a crucial role. We’re talking about crisp, tender apples infused with warm spices, perfectly complemented by a rich, buttery shortbread crust that melts in your mouth. But the real game-changer, the element that elevates this from simply delicious to truly unforgettable, is that gooey, glistening layer of salted caramel. It coats every apple slice, weaving its magic through the entire bar, offering that perfect balance of sweet and savory that keeps you coming back for just one more bite. The crumble topping adds that essential textural contrast, a delightful crunch that rounds out the entire experience. It’s comforting, sophisticated, and utterly addictive all at once.

What makes these bars a true must-try is not just their phenomenal taste, but also their inherent versatility and crowd-pleasing nature. They’re substantial enough to feel like a proper dessert, yet conveniently portioned for a casual afternoon treat with a cup of coffee or tea. Imagine the aroma filling your kitchen as these bake—it’s the quintessential scent of fall, warm and inviting, promising something truly special. The ease with which such an impressive dessert comes together is another huge win. You don’t need to be a pastry chef to achieve perfection here; the steps are straightforward, and the results are consistently spectacular. I’ve made these for countless gatherings, and they are always the first to disappear, sparking conversations and earning rave reviews. There’s something incredibly satisfying about watching friends and family enjoy something you’ve poured your heart into, especially when it’s as universally loved as these bars.

Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Experience:

While these bars are absolutely divine on their own, whether warm from the oven or at room temperature, a few simple additions can take them to an even higher level of indulgence. For a truly decadent dessert experience, I highly recommend serving them slightly warm with a generous scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or, if you’re feeling adventurous, a scoop of cinnamon or butter pecan ice cream. The cold, creamy richness against the warm, tender apples and gooey caramel is a match made in heaven. A dollop of freshly whipped cream, perhaps infused with a touch of maple syrup or a whisper of bourbon, would also be magnificent. For those who enjoy a bit of extra decadence, a drizzle of additional homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over the top just before serving adds an extra layer of visual appeal and flavor. And don’t forget a tiny sprinkle of flaky sea salt right before that first bite—it truly highlights the “salted” in our “salted caramel.” For a more casual setting, they pair wonderfully with a robust cup of coffee, a comforting mug of spiced chai, or a glass of chilled apple cider.

Creative Variations for Your Next Batch:

Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe (which you will, easily!), feel free to get creative with some delightful variations. You could incorporate different nuts into the crumble topping or even into the apple filling—toasted pecans or walnuts would add a wonderful depth of flavor and extra crunch. For an even more spiced experience, a pinch of nutmeg, allspice, or even a tiny amount of ground ginger in the apple mixture or the crumble would be fantastic. Experiment with different apple varieties too; a mix of Granny Smith for tartness and Honeycrisp for sweetness and crispness often creates the perfect balance. If you’re feeling extra playful, a touch of dark rum or bourbon can be added to the apple mixture or the caramel sauce for a grown-up twist. For those who love a bit of texture in their crust, you could add some finely ground oats to the shortbread base. This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, so don’t be afraid to make it your own and discover your new favorite iteration.

Now, it’s your turn to bring this magic into your own kitchen! I genuinely hope you feel inspired to give this recipe a try. There’s an unparalleled joy in creating something so delicious from scratch, and I promise you, the aroma alone is worth the effort. Imagine the faces of your loved ones as they take their first bite of these incredible treats. So, preheat that oven, gather your ingredients, and prepare to embark on a truly delightful baking adventure. I am so confident that you will fall head over heels for this recipe.

Once you’ve baked these beauties, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience! Did you stick to the original recipe, or did you venture into some of the suggested variations? What were your favorite parts? Please, don’t hesitate to share your thoughts, your successes, and even your questions. Your feedback is incredibly valuable, and I love seeing your culinary creations. Let’s make this autumn a season filled with warmth, comfort, and the unforgettable taste of homemade goodness. Trust me, these Salted Caramel Apple Crum extractble Bars Fall Treat are destined to become a cherished part of your autumn traditions. Happy baking, everyone!

Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars

These Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars are a perfect fall treat, featuring tender, spiced apples enrobed in a rich salted caramel sauce, nestled between a golden, oat-flecked base and a generous crumbly topping. Convenient bar form makes them effortlessly portable and ideal for any occasion. Surprisingly easy to prepare, bringing warmth and joy to your kitchen.

Prep Time
35 Minutes

Cook Time
1 Hours

Total Time
35 Minutes

Servings
12 servings

Ingredients

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 cups peeled and thinly sliced apples (about 3 medium)
• 1/2 cup salted caramel sauce
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Instructions

1. Step 1
   In a bowl, combine 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 ½ cups granulated sugar, ½ teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 cup melted unsalted butter. Mix until a crumbly dough forms.
2. Step 2
   Press about two-thirds of the crumb mixture evenly into a parchment-lined 9×13-inch baking pan. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the base for 15-18 minutes until lightly golden.
3. Step 3
   While the base bakes, toss 3 cups peeled, thinly sliced apples with 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon and ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg.
4. Step 4
   Spread the apple mixture evenly over the pre-baked base. Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over the apples. Return to oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling.
5. Step 5
   Let the bars cool completely on a wire rack (at least 2-3 hours). Once cool, lift from the pan using the parchment overhang, drizzle generously with ½ cup salted caramel sauce, and sprinkle with extra sea salt flakes if desired. Cut into bars and serve.

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.