Caramel Crumb Bars are simply delightful. With a sweet, creamy caramel layer nestled between a soft, crumbly topping, these bars are perfect for any family gathering. Whether it’s a weekend treat or a dessert for a special occasion, they’re quick to whip up and sure to please everyone.

Why You Will Love This Caramel Crumb Bars

These bars are a wonderful combination of textures and flavors. The rich caramel is balanced perfectly by the crispy crumble on top. Plus, they’re very easy to make with everyday ingredients you likely have on hand. Perfect for busy moms, this recipe requires minimal prep time and offers a satisfying sweet treat for the whole family.

How to Make Caramel Crumb Bars

Making these bars is a breeze! All you need to do is mix, layer, and bake. There’s no fuss involved, just simple steps that lead to delicious results. It’s a great way to get the kids involved in the kitchen too.

What You Need

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1 cup salted caramel sauce
1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)

How to Cook Caramel Crumb Bars

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8 inch baking pan.
In a medium bowl, combine flour, butter, granulated sugar, and salt. Mix until crumbly.
Stir in oats and brown sugar until well combined.
Press half of the mixture into the prepared baking pan to form the crust.
Pour the salted caramel sauce over the crust.
Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture on top of the caramel, pressing down slightly.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Allow to cool before cutting into bars.

How to Serve Caramel Crumb Bars

These bars are delicious on their own but can also be served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They make a lovely dessert for family gatherings, or you can pack them for a tasty snack on the go. You might also enjoy serving them with a drizzle of extra caramel sauce on top for an indulgent treat.

How to Store Caramel Crumb Bars

To keep your bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last up to a week. If you’d like to freeze them, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the fridge and they’ll be good as new.

Recipe Tips

Use Room Temperature Butter: This helps in creating a nice crumbly texture.
Cut into Squares When Cool: This prevents the bars from breaking apart.
Add Nuts for Crunch: Chopped nuts give an extra texture if you like.
Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on them; golden brown is the goal!
Use Homemade Caramel: If you’re feeling adventurous, homemade caramel adds a special touch.

Variations & Swaps

Nut-Free: Simply leave out the nuts if allergies are a concern.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate on top for a treat that chocolate lovers will adore.
Oatmeal Variation: Use flavored instant oats for a twist, like cinnamon or apple.

FAQs

Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare them a day or two in advance and store them in the fridge. Just cut them into squares when you’re ready to serve.

Are these bars freezable?
Yes! Once completely cool, wrap them tightly and freeze. They’ll last about two months. Just remember to thaw them in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy.

Can I reheat them?
Yes! If you want them warm, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Just be careful not to overheat!

What can I use instead of nuts?
If nuts aren’t your thing, you can skip them entirely or substitute with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin.

What’s a common mistake to avoid?
Make sure not to pack the crumb mixture too tightly when pressing into the pan. It needs some gentle pressure to create the perfect base without being too dense.