Apple Crumble Bars are a delightful treat that combines the best of traditional apple crumble in a convenient bar form. With a buttery shortbread base, jammy apple filling, and a crumbly topping, they are perfect for snacking or serving as a dessert at dinner parties. These bars are easy to make and can be enhanced with a drizzle of salted caramel sauce and a scoop of ice cream for an extra special touch.
Why You’ll Love This Apple Crumble Bars
These bars are not just delicious; they offer multiple benefits that make them a must-try.
- Easy to Make: The simple steps involved mean you can whip these up quickly, even on busy days.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as a snack or elevate them to dessert status with toppings like ice cream or caramel.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy fall gathering or an elegant dinner party, these bars fit right in.
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The sweet and tart apples paired with warm spices create an irresistible flavor profile.
- Handheld Convenience: No need for plates or utensils—these bars are ready to grab and go!
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes baking Apple Crumble Bars easier and more enjoyable. Gather your kitchen essentials before you start.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 20cm/8 square pan
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or spoon
- Baking parchment paper
- Oven
Importance of Each Tool
- 20cm/8 square pan: This is the ideal size for creating evenly baked bars that hold their shape.
- Mixing bowl: A good mixing bowl allows for easy combining of ingredients without spills.
- Baking parchment paper: Using parchment helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Ingredients
Recipe video above. Tastes like Apple Crumble – in bar form! Shortbread-like base, jammy apple filling and crumbly top. Take it over the top with a drizzle of salted caramel sauce – and ice cream! Great quick apple recipe ideal for a handheld snack, or transform into a dessert for dinner party.
For the Base
- 125g / 1 stick unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups (300g) flour, plain/all purpose
- 1/2 cup (100g) white sugar
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- 1 egg
- 1/3 cup (30g) rolled oats
For the Apple Filling
- 3 – 4 large granny smith apples, cut into 0.7cm / 1/3 dice (~4 cups)
- 1/4 cup (35g) plain flour, all purpose flour
- 1/4 cup (50g) white sugar
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
To Serve
- Salted caramel sauce
- Ice cream!
How to Make Apple Crumble Bars
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180C (350F). This ensures that your bars bake evenly from the start.
Step 2: Prepare the Pan
Grease your 20cm square pan with butter or cooking spray. Line it with baking parchment paper, allowing some overhang. This will help you lift out the bars easily once cooked.
Step 3: Make the Base Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, plain flour, white sugar, baking powder, and pinch of salt. Mix until no white bits of flour remain visible.
Step 4: Add Egg to Mixture
Add one egg to your mixture. Stir until fully combined; this will help bind your base together.
Step 5: Press Into Pan
Lightly press two-thirds of this mixture into the bottom of your prepared pan. Make sure it is even for uniform baking.
Step 6: Bake Base
Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes until slightly golden. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about five minutes.
Step 7: Prepare Apple Filling
While your base is cooling, mix together all apple filling ingredients in a separate bowl until well combined.
Now you’re ready to finish making these delicious Apple Crumble Bars!
How to Serve Apple Crumble Bars
Apple crumble bars are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re serving them as a dessert or a sweet snack, these bars can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
A La Mode
- Ice Cream: Serve warm apple crumble bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The creaminess balances the sweet, tart flavors of the apples perfectly.
Drizzled with Sauce
- Salted Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some salted caramel over the bars for an extra layer of flavor. This addition enhances the sweetness and adds a delightful salty contrast.
With Whipped Topping
- Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on each bar. This simple topping gives a light, fluffy texture that complements the dense crumble nicely.
As a Breakfast Treat
- Morning Snack: Enjoy apple crumble bars as part of your breakfast or brunch spread. They pair well with coffee and make for a quick, delicious bite to kickstart your day.
Topped with Nuts
- Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before serving for added crunch and richness. These nuts bring an earthy flavor that enhances the overall dish.
Paired with Tea
- Afternoon Tea: Serve these bars alongside your favorite tea, making for an elegant afternoon treat that’s both comforting and satisfying.
How to Perfect Apple Crumble Bars
Perfecting apple crumble bars is all about attention to detail and using the right techniques. Here are some tips to ensure your bars turn out delicious every time.
- Use Fresh Apples: Always opt for fresh Granny Smith apples for their tartness, which balances the sweetness of the crumble.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining ingredients, mix just until they come together. Overmixing can result in tough bars.
- Chill Your Butter: For a flakier base, use cold butter when mixing with flour. This helps create that desired shortbread-like texture.
- Let Them Cool Completely: Allow your apple crumble bars to cool fully before slicing. This helps them set properly and makes cutting easier.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add different spices like ginger or allspice for an extra flavor dimension in your filling.
- Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Apple Crumble Bars
Pairing side dishes with apple crumble bars can enhance your dining experience. Here are some delicious options that complement this sweet treat well.
- Vanilla Yogurt: A smooth vanilla yogurt provides a creamy contrast that works beautifully with the fruity flavor of the bars.
- Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: These soft donuts add another layer of sweetness and spice, making them an excellent pairing for dessert lovers.
- Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad offers bright flavors that balance the richness of the apple crumble bars while keeping things light.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, particularly sharp cheddar, pairs nicely with the sweetness of the apples and adds complexity.
- Hot Chocolate: For colder days, serve warm apple crumble bars alongside hot chocolate for a cozy treat.
- Spiced Chai Latte: This aromatic drink complements the spices in the apple filling exceptionally well, creating a warm flavor profile.
- Ginger Tea: A refreshing ginger tea can cleanse the palate between bites while providing warmth and spice.
- Milkshake: A creamy milkshake—vanilla or caramel flavored—makes for a fun and indulgent drink option alongside your dessert bars.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Apple Crumble Bars, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your bars turn out perfectly.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Measuring with precision is key for the right texture. Use a kitchen scale for best results.
- Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough bars. Mix just until combined for a tender texture.
- Using the wrong type of apples: Not all apples are suitable for baking. Stick to tart varieties like Granny Smith for the best flavor.
- Skipping the cooling time: Failing to cool the base before adding the filling can result in a soggy bottom. Allow it to cool briefly for optimal results.
- Not lining the pan properly: If you don’t line your pan, removing the bars will be difficult. Use parchment paper with overhang to lift them out easily.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Apple Crumble Bars in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Instructions
- Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Instructions
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 180C/350F and bake for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat each bar on medium power for about 30 seconds or until warm.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet on low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes, checking frequently.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Apple Crumble Bars?
Apple Crumble Bars are a delicious dessert that combines a buttery shortbread base, sweet apple filling, and a crumbly topping.
Can I use different types of apples for Apple Crumble Bars?
Yes, while Granny Smith apples are ideal due to their tartness, you can also experiment with Honeycrisp or Fuji apples for a sweeter flavor.
How can I customize my Apple Crumble Bars?
You can add nuts, raisins, or even spices like ginger or cloves to enhance flavor. Try different toppings such as streusel or chocolate drizzle!
How do I know when my Apple Crumble Bars are done?
Your bars should be golden brown on top and slightly firm when pressed. A toothpick inserted should come out clean from the filling area.
Final Thoughts
Apple Crumble Bars are not only delightful but also incredibly versatile. You can enjoy them as a snack or dress them up with ice cream and caramel sauce for dessert. Feel free to customize them with your favorite fruits or toppings! Try making these bars today; they’ll surely become a family favorite!
Apple Crumble Bars
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Apple Crumble Bars are a delightful twist on the classic dessert, combining sweet, tart apples with a buttery crumble in an easy-to-hold bar form. Perfect for snacking or serving at gatherings, these bars feature a shortbread-like base topped with jammy apple filling and a crunchy topping. Elevate your experience by adding salted caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Bake these bars for cozy fall gatherings or any occasion when you need a delicious treat.
Ingredients
- 125g unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 cups plain flour
- 1/2 cup white sugar
- 1 egg
- 3–4 large Granny Smith apples (diced)
- 1/4 cup plain flour
- 1/4 cup white sugar
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 180C (350F).
- Grease and line a 20cm square pan with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until smooth.
- Stir in the egg until fully combined.
- Press two-thirds of the mixture into the base of the prepared pan and bake for 15 minutes until slightly golden.
- While cooling, mix diced apples with flour, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg; pour over the baked base.
- Crumble remaining mixture on top and bake for another 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (45g)
- Calories: 185
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
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