Introduction
Embrace the cozy flavors of fall with these delectable Caramel Apple Crisp Bars! Imagine a buttery crust layered with cinnamon-spiced apples, drizzled with gooey caramel, and topped with a crispy, crumbly topping. These bars encapsulate the essence of autumn in every bite.
Who Will Love These Bars?
These bars are perfect for anyone who adores the classic combination of caramel and apple. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, craving a comforting dessert, or simply celebrating the season, these bars will be an instant hit. They’re also a fantastic addition to bake sales, potlucks, or as a delightful treat for a cozy evening at home.
Why They’re Amazing
What makes these bars exceptional is the marriage of textures and flavors. The contrast between the buttery crust, tender apples, and crunchy topping creates a symphony of tastes in every mouthful. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile; serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert or enjoy them on their own with a cup of hot cider.
Ingredients
For the Crust and Topping:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups old-fashioned oats
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
- ¾ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Apple Filling:
- 3-4 medium-sized apples (peeled, cored, and thinly sliced)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- ½ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Recipe Directions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
Step 2: Prepare the Crust and Topping
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside 1 ½ cups of this mixture for the topping.
Press the remaining mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to create the crust.
Step 3: Make the Apple Filling
In another bowl, toss the sliced apples with flour, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until the apples are coated.
Spread the apple mixture over the crust in the baking pan. Drizzle the caramel sauce evenly over the apples.
Step 4: Add the Topping and Bake
Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture evenly over the apple filling and lightly press it down.
Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the apples are tender.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, lift the bars using the parchment paper overhang and cut them into squares.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- 9×9-inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Parchment paper or cooking spray
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Caramel Apple Crisp Bars warm or at room temperature. They pair beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a delightful beverage pairing, try them with a hot cup of caramel latte or apple cider.
Conclusion
Get ready to savor the flavors of fall with these irresistible Caramel Apple Crisp Bars! Share this recipe with friends and family, and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delightful recipes that celebrate the season.