Apple Crumb Bars

If you’re a fan of warm, cinnamon-spiced apples and buttery, crumbly goodness, then these Apple Crumb Bars are about to become your new favorite treat. Imagine biting into a soft, sweet, and slightly tangy apple filling, all wrapped up in a crisp, golden crumble topping. The best part? These bars are super easy to make, so you can enjoy that comforting apple dessert flavor any time without all the fuss of a pie.

Whether you’re craving something sweet for breakfast, a delicious dessert to end your dinner, or a perfect afternoon snack, these bars check all the boxes. They’re not overly sweet, but that perfect balance of flavor with just the right amount of crunch. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll be hooked!

Why You’ll Love Apple Crumb Bars

• Easy to Make: No need to worry about rolling dough or making complicated fillings. This recipe is simple and quick.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These bars are great for everything from cozy nights at home to serving at a potluck or holiday gathering.
• Cinnamon & Apple Flavor: The warm, spiced apple filling paired with a buttery crumb topping is a match made in dessert heaven.
• Kid-Friendly: These bars are a hit with everyone, and the best part? They’re easy for the little ones to snack on or help make!

Ingredients for Apple Crumb Bars

Let’s break down the key ingredients for these scrumptious bars. (You can find full measurements above in the recipe card.)

For the Crust and Topping:

• Flour: This is the base for both the crust and the crumb topping.
• Butter: Adds richness and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Sugar: Sweetens up the crust and topping just right.
• Baking Powder: Helps the crust and crumb topping rise to perfection.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances out the sweetness.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a depth of flavor that elevates the overall taste.

For the Apple Filling:

• Apples: A mix of tart and sweet apples works best. Granny Smith apples add a nice tang, while Honeycrisp adds sweetness.
• Sugar: For sweetness to balance the tart apples.
• Cinnamon: A must-have for that warm, comforting apple flavor.
• Lemon Juice: A splash of acidity brightens the filling and enhances the apple taste.
• Cornstarch: Helps thicken the filling and keeps it from getting too runny.

(Note: Full ingredient quantities and detailed instructions are in the recipe card above.)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling

• Peel, core, and slice your apples into thin, even slices.
• In a large bowl, toss the apples with sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Set aside while you prepare the crust and topping.

Step 2: Make the Crust and Topping

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan.
• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
• Add the butter (cubed) and vanilla extract. Use a pastry cutter, fork, or your hands to combine everything until the mixture forms a crumbly texture. It should resemble coarse crumbs.
• Press half of the mixture into the prepared pan to form the base. Use your fingers to press it evenly and compact it to form a solid crust.

Step 3: Assemble the Bars

• Spoon the apple filling onto the crust layer, spreading it evenly to cover.
• Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over the apples. It doesn’t have to be perfect, leaving some apple peeking through will make for a beautiful rustic look.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

• Bake the bars in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown, and the filling is bubbling around the edges.
• Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes. This helps the filling set, making it easier to slice.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

• Once the bars have cooled, slice them into squares or rectangles. Serve warm or at room temperature with a dusting of powdered sugar, whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence.

How to Serve Apple Crumb Bars

• With Ice Cream: Top with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a decadent dessert.
• With Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream pairs perfectly with the warm, spiced apples.
• For Breakfast: Yes, you can! These bars are sweet enough for a dessert, but not too sugary for a cozy breakfast or brunch.
• Coffee Pairing: Serve alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate afternoon snack.

Additional Tips

• Use a mix of apples: A combination of tart apples like Granny Smith and sweet apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp creates the perfect balance of flavors.
• Add nuts: You can add chopped walnuts or pecans to the crumb topping for a bit of crunch.
• Add caramel: Drizzle some warm caramel sauce over the bars right before serving for extra indulgence.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: 1 bar (based on 12 servings)

• Calories: 220
• Total Fat: 12g (18% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 7g (35% DV)
• Cholesterol: 30mg (10% DV)
• Sodium: 70mg (3% DV)
• Total Carbohydrates: 28g (9% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 2g (8% DV)
• Sugars: 16g
• Protein: 2g

(Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on ingredients and portion sizes.)

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
• Total Time: 50-55 minutes

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use frozen apples for the filling?

A1: It’s best to use fresh apples for this recipe, but if you’re using frozen apples, make sure to thaw them and drain any excess liquid before using them in the filling.

Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?

A2: Yes! You can prepare the bars ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They also freeze well for up to 3 months.

Q3: Can I use a different type of fruit?

A3: Absolutely! These bars are versatile, and you can swap the apples for other fruits like peaches, berries, or pears for a different flavor profile.

Q4: Can I make the crust gluten-free?

A4: Yes! You can substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these bars gluten-free.

Q5: Can I add a streusel topping instead of the crumb topping?

A5: Definitely! You can use a classic streusel topping with butter, sugar, and flour for an extra buttery and sweet crunch.

Q6: Can I add raisins or dried cranberries to the filling?

A6: Yes! Dried fruit can be a nice addition to the apple filling. Just add a handful to the mix for extra texture and sweetness.

Q7: How should I store leftovers?

A7: Store leftover Apple Crumb Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Q8: Can I double the recipe?

A8: Absolutely! Just double the ingredients and use a larger pan, such as a 9×13-inch baking dish. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly.

Q9: Can I use a store-bought crust instead of making my own?

A9: Yes, if you want to save time, you can use a store-bought shortbread or graham cracker crust, though the homemade crust adds a delicious homemade touch.

Q10: Can I make this recipe vegan?

A10: To make this vegan, you can substitute the butter with a vegan butter alternative and use a plant-based milk in place of dairy ingredients.

Conclusion

These Apple Crumb Bars are the perfect balance of sweet and tart with a buttery, crumbly topping that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re serving them for dessert, a snack, or even as a breakfast treat, they’re bound to be a hit. The best part is how easy they are to make and how well they hold up for leftovers. Give them a try, and get ready to enjoy a delicious homemade treat that feels like a cozy hug in every bite!

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