Caramel Apple Crumb Bars (Printer-Friendly)
Tender shortbread layered with spiced apples and rich caramel, topped with buttery crumbs for the perfect fall dessert.
# What You’ll Need:
→ Crust and Crumb
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→ Apple Filling
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→ Caramel Layer
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# How To Make It:
01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
02 - In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter and cut it in using a pastry cutter or your fingers until crumbly. Stir in vanilla extract.
03 - Reserve 1 1/2 cups of the mixture for the topping. Press the remaining dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
04 - Bake the crust for 12 minutes, then remove from oven.
05 - While the crust is baking, place apple slices in a bowl and toss with lemon juice. Add sugar, flour, and cinnamon, tossing to coat.
06 - Spread the apple mixture evenly over the hot crust. Drizzle caramel sauce over the apples.
07 - Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture evenly over the top.
08 - Bake for 28 to 32 minutes or until the topping is light golden brown and apples are tender.
09 - Let cool completely in the pan, then lift out using parchment and cut into bars.
# Helpful Hints:
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- The combination of tender shortbread, spiced apples, and buttery crumble hits every comfort note
- They actually taste better the next day, making them perfect for make ahead desserts
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- Cold butter is non negotiable here, warm butter will make your crust greasy and tough instead of tender
- Letting the bars cool completely is the difference between a mess and perfect squares, so plan ahead
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- Chill your mixing bowl for 10 minutes before making the crust if your kitchen is warm
- Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for the prettiest bars