Irresistible Caramel Crumb Bars
Caramel Crumb Bars Recipe
Caramel Crumb Bars are a delightful treat that combines the richness of caramel with a buttery crumb topping. Each bite is a perfect balance of sweet and salty, making these bars an irresistible dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these bars are sure to impress friends and family alike.
Why Make This Recipe
What sets Caramel Crumb Bars apart from other desserts? The combination of creamy caramel and crumbly texture creates a unique experience that’s hard to resist. They are incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few common ingredients. Additionally, these bars can be made ahead of time, allowing for stress-free entertaining. Once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself coming back for more!
How to Make Caramel Crumb Bars
Follow these simple steps to prepare your own delicious Caramel Crumb Bars.
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar (200 grams)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (84 grams), cut into pieces
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (120 ml)
- 1/2 teaspoon coarse salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter (168 grams), melted
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (150 grams)
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (219 grams)
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch (22.5 grams) (also known as cornflour in Australia)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (light)
- 2/3 cup salted caramel sauce (160 ml)
Directions
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Make the Caramel Sauce: In a saucepan, combine 1 cup granulated sugar, 6 tablespoons of butter, and 1/2 cup heavy cream. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth. Add 1/2 teaspoon coarse salt and bring to a gentle boil. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
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Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, mix the melted butter, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 3/4 cups flour, 3 tablespoons cornstarch, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 2 tablespoons brown sugar until crumbly.
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Assemble the Bars: Press about 2/3 of the crumb mixture into the bottom of a greased baking dish to create a crust. Pour the cooled caramel sauce over the crust, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture on top.
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Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
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Cool and Cut: Once baked, allow it to cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars.
How to Serve Caramel Crumb Bars
Caramel Crumb Bars can be served warm or at room temperature. For an extra touch, drizzle some additional caramel sauce on top or add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience. They also make a great addition to any dessert platter.
How to Store Caramel Crumb Bars
To keep your Caramel Crumb Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to store them for longer, consider refrigerating them, which can extend their freshness for up to two weeks.
Tips to Make Caramel Crumb Bars
- Ensure you measure your flour correctly to avoid dense bars. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurement.
- Allow the caramel sauce to cool slightly before adding it to prevent it from melting the crust.
- Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips to the crumb mixture for added flavor and texture.
Variations
- Nutty Delight: Add crushed nuts like pecans or walnuts to the crumb mixture for a nutty flavor.
- Chocolatey Twist: Mix in some chocolate chips to the crumb topping for a chocolate caramel experience.
- Fruit Addition: Try layering the bars with thin slices of apples or pears before baking for a fruity version.
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
Yes, you can use store-bought caramel sauce to save time. Just make sure it’s of good quality for the best flavor.
2. Can these bars be frozen?
Yes, these bars freeze well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to three months.
3. What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option or whole milk, but it may alter the richness of the caramel.
Enjoy making your Caramel Crumb Bars and savor the deliciousness of this sweet treat!
Caramel Crumb Bars
Ingredients
For the Caramel Sauce
- 1 cup granulated sugar 200 grams
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter 84 grams, cut into pieces
- 1/2 cup heavy cream 120 ml
- 1/2 teaspoon coarse salt
For the Crust
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter 168 grams, melted
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar 150 grams
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour 219 grams
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch 22.5 grams (also known as cornflour in Australia)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar light
Additional Ingredients
- 2/3 cup salted caramel sauce 160 ml
Instructions
Make the Caramel Sauce
- In a saucepan, combine granulated sugar, unsalted butter, and heavy cream. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth.
- Add coarse salt and bring to a gentle boil. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix melted butter, granulated sugar, flour, cornstarch, salt, and brown sugar until crumbly.
Assemble the Bars
- Press about 2/3 of the crumb mixture into the bottom of a greased baking dish to create a crust.
- Pour the cooled caramel sauce over the crust, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture on top.
Bake
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Cool and Cut
- Once baked, allow it to cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars.
