Go Back
Sweet Caramel Apple Crumble Bars are a delightful dessert that combines the comforting flavors of caramel and apple in a convenient, easy-to-eat format. These bars offer an irresistible combination of sweet, tart, and buttery flavors that evoke the feeling of autumn, making them a perfect treat year-round. Whether you are looking for a dessert to impress guests at a dinner party, a sweet addition to your holiday table, or simply a comforting snack to enjoy at home, these crumble bars are sure to satisfy.

Sweet Caramel Apple Crumble Bars

Indulge in the deliciousness of Sweet Caramel Apple Crumble Bars, the perfect dessert for any occasion! With layers of buttery crust, tender spiced apple filling, and a rich caramel drizzle, these bars combine sweet and tart flavors for a comforting treat that evokes the essence of autumn. Enjoy them warm or chilled, and dress them up with a scoop of ice cream for an extra special touch. Easy to make and even easier to love, these bars are a delightful addition to family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or a cozy night in. Discover the joy of baking these irresistible crumble bars and impress your friends and family!

Ingredients
  

For the Crust and Topping:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 cup rolled oats

¾ cup brown sugar, packed

½ cup granulated sugar

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon baking soda

1 cup unsalted butter, melted

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Apple Filling:

4 cups apples, peeled and thinly sliced (about 4 medium apples)

1 tablespoon lemon juice

½ teaspoon cinnamon

¼ teaspoon nutmeg

½ cup granulated sugar

1 tablespoon cornstarch

For the Caramel Sauce:

½ cup brown sugar

¼ cup unsalted butter

¼ cup heavy cream

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Pinch of salt

Instructions
 

Prepare the Oven and Pan:

    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x9 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.

      Make the Crust and Topping:

        In a large bowl, combine flour, rolled oats, both sugars, salt, and baking soda. Mix until well combined. Pour in the melted butter and vanilla extract, stirring until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Reserve 1 cup of the mixture for the topping.

          Press the Crust:

            Firmly press the remaining mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form an even crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes.

              Prepare the Apple Filling:

                In a separate bowl, toss the sliced apples with lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, granulated sugar, and cornstarch. Ensure the apples are well coated.

                  Make the Caramel Sauce:

                    In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and begins to bubble. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Set aside to cool slightly.

                      Assemble the Bars:

                        After the crust has baked for 10 minutes, remove it from the oven. Layer the apple mixture evenly over the crust. Drizzle the caramel sauce over the apples, ensuring to cover them sufficiently. Sprinkle the reserved crumble mixture on top.

                          Bake:

                            Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the apples are tender.

                              Cool and Slice:

                                Once baked, remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes. Use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out, then transfer to a cutting board to slice into squares.

                                  Serve:

                                    Enjoy warm or at room temperature, optionally drizzling with extra caramel sauce and serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

                                      Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 25 mins | 65 mins | 16 bars