Get Addicted in 45 Min Recipe

If you are craving a fall treat that feels like a warm hug wrapped in a dessert, these Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars are exactly what you need to try today. Their perfect balance of sweet, salty, and spicy features a buttery, crumbly crust layered with tender cinnamon-spiced apples and drizzled with luscious salted caramel sauce. This recipe is pure magic and guaranteed to help you Get Addicted in 45 Min, making it a quick go-to for cozy gatherings or a satisfying personal indulgence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple but incredibly important. Each plays a unique role in building the delicious texture and harmony of flavors that make these bars irresistible. From the melted butter that forms a rich crumbly crust to the vibrant apples seasoned with warming spices, every component stands out beautifully.

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted: This gives the crust its rich and buttery base, ensuring the perfect crumbly texture.
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the crust and balances the tartness of the apples.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm aromatic touch that elevates every bite.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all flavors and counterbalances the sweetness in the dish.
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and crumbly texture you expect in a classic crumble bar.
• 3 cups peeled and thinly sliced apples (about 3 medium): The star ingredient, giving juicy and tender fruit throughout.
• 1/2 cup salted caramel sauce: Brings in a luscious, gooey richness with just the right hint of saltiness.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Offers comforting spice that pairs beautifully with apples.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds subtle warmth and depth to the spiced apple filling.

How to Make Get Addicted in 45 Min

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s perfectly heated when your bars are ready to bake. Then, line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper. This simple prep step ensures your bars will lift out of the pan beautifully when sliced and keep their shape perfectly intact.

Step 2: Mix the Crust Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir well until the sugar starts to dissolve, creating a silky base. Then add the all-purpose flour and mix just until you get a crumbly dough-like texture. This will form the buttery crust and crumble topping that so many fans adore.

Step 3: Press the Crust Into the Pan

Take about two-thirds of your crumbly mixture and press it evenly into the bottom of your parchment-lined pan. This becomes the sturdy but tender base for your bars. Getting an even layer here sets up the perfect canvas for the apples and caramel topping.

Step 4: Prepare the Spiced Apple Filling

Toss your peeled and thinly sliced apples in a bowl with the cinnamon and nutmeg. This step ensures every piece will be bursting with cozy, warming spice. Spread this fragrant apple mixture evenly over your prepared crust. The spicy aroma alone will make you eager to continue!

Step 5: Add the Salted Caramel and Topping

Drizzle the salted caramel sauce generously over the bed of apples. This sweet, salty layer adds the signature gooey richness that makes these bars so memorable. Finally, crumble the remaining flour-butter mixture over the top, creating a rustic, golden crumble finish.

Step 6: Bake and Cool

Bake your bars for 40 to 45 minutes until the crumble is golden brown and the apples are tender and bubbling beneath. Once baked, let the bars cool completely in the pan; this resting time helps the layers set for neat slicing. Now you’re ready to Get Addicted in 45 Min with each delicious bite!

How to Serve Get Addicted in 45 Min

Garnishes

Adding thoughtful garnishes takes these bars from simple to spectacular. Try a dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans for extra crunch and nuttiness. A drizzle of more salted caramel or a dollop of whipped cream on the side adds an indulgent touch that makes serving extra special.

Side Dishes

Pair your salted caramel apple crumble bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or some creamy custard to add a cooling contrast to the warm spice and gooey caramel. A hot cup of chai tea or coffee also complements the flavors, making this an ideal dessert duo for a cozy afternoon or evening treat.

Creative Ways to Present

For festive gatherings, cut the bars into bite-size squares and place them on a rustic wooden board surrounded by fresh apple slices and cinnamon sticks. Alternatively, serve them layered in individual glass jars for an elegant presentation where everyone can see the beautiful layers of crust, spiced apples, and caramel.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These bars keep brilliantly in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days. Storing them properly maintains their moist apple filling and crisp crumble topping without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Freezing

If you want to savor this Get Addicted in 45 Min experience later, wrapping the bars tightly in plastic wrap and then foil allows you to freeze them for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating or enjoying at room temperature.

Reheating

Warm your bars gently in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes to bring back that fresh-from-the-oven flavor and texture. Alternatively, microwave a single piece for about 20 seconds to enjoy a quick, gooey treat that tastes almost as good as the first slice.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple for this recipe?

Absolutely! While tart apples like Granny Smith work best for balance, you can experiment with Fuji or Honeycrisp for a sweeter flavor. Just make sure to slice them thinly so they cook evenly.

Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking. You might need to adjust the quantity slightly to get the right crumbly texture, but it works wonderfully.

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

Definitely. Quality store-bought salted caramel sauce works perfectly and saves time. Just choose one with good flavor and not too runny for the best layer consistency.

How do I prevent the crust from becoming soggy?

Pressing the crust firmly and ensuring your sliced apples are well drained helps avoid sogginess. Additionally, baking until the crumble topping is golden and crispy creates a nice barrier that keeps the crust delightful.

Can I double the recipe in a larger pan?

You can! Just double all ingredients and bake in a larger 9×18 inch pan. Keep an eye on baking time, as it may need a few extra minutes to cook through evenly.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about this Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars recipe that feels like a warm embrace on a chilly day. It’s easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for anyone looking to Get Addicted in 45 Min to a fall dessert that’s both cozy and indulgent. Trust me, once you try it, these bars will become your new seasonal obsession.

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