Apple Crumble Bars

Recipe video above. Tastes like Apple Crumble – in bar form! Shortbread-like base, jammy apple filling, and crumbly top make Apple Crumble Bars a delightful treat. These bars are perfect for any occasion, whether you need a quick snack or a stunning dessert for a dinner party. With their warm flavors and inviting aroma, they stand out as a comforting choice during the fall season.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• How to Make Apple Crumble Bars
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare the Pan
• Step 3: Make the Base Mixture
• Step 4: Incorporate Egg
• Step 5: Press into Pan
• Step 6: Bake Base
• Step 7: Prepare Apple Filling
• How to Serve Apple Crumble Bars
• A La Mode
• Drizzled with Caramel
• With Whipped Cream
• Pair with Coffee
• As Breakfast Bars
• Served Warm
• How to Perfect Apple Crumble Bars
• Best Side Dishes for Apple Crumble Bars
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Apple Crumble Bars
• Reheating Apple Crumble Bars
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What are Apple Crumble Bars?
• Can I use different types of apples for Apple Crumble Bars?
• How do I customize my Apple Crumble Bars?
• Can I make these bars gluten-free?
• How do I know when my Apple Crumble Bars are done?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The simple steps and everyday ingredients ensure that anyone can whip up these delicious bars in no time.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of buttery shortbread, sweet apples, and crumbly topping creates an irresistible taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as a handheld snack or elevate them to a dessert with a scoop of ice cream and drizzled caramel sauce.
• Perfect for All Occasions: Whether it’s a casual family gathering or an elegant dinner party, these bars fit seamlessly into any menu.
• Make Ahead Convenience: Bake them ahead of time and store for later enjoyment; they taste just as great after a day or two.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Apple Crumble Bars, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 20cm/8 square pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• 20cm/8 square pan: This size is perfect for baking the bars evenly, ensuring they cook through while maintaining their shape.
• Mixing bowls: Using separate bowls helps keep ingredients organized and ensures thorough mixing without spills.
• Whisk or spatula: These tools make combining ingredients easy, helping achieve the right consistency in your mixture.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 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
– 3 – 4 large granny smith apples, cut into 0.7cm / 1/3 dice (~4 cups)
– 1/4 cup (35g) plain flour, all-purpose
– 1/4 cup (50g) white sugar
– 1/2 tsp cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp nutmeg
– Salted caramel sauce (for drizzling)
– Ice cream! (optional)

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/8 square pan. Line it with baking paper, allowing some overhang so you can lift the bars out easily once baked.

Step 3: Make the Base Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, flour, white sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix thoroughly until no white bits remain visible.

Step 4: Incorporate Egg

Add one egg to the mixture and stir until fully combined.

Step 5: Press into Pan

Take about two-thirds of this mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan.

Step 6: Bake Base

Bake this base for around 15 minutes until it’s slightly golden. Once done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for about five minutes.

Step 7: Prepare Apple Filling

While your base is cooling, combine your apple filling ingredients in a separate bowl. This will ensure you have everything ready for assembly!

How to Serve Apple Crumble Bars

Apple Crumble Bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to serve them as a snack or as part of a dessert spread, these bars are versatile and satisfying. Here are some creative serving suggestions.

A La Mode

• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of warm Apple Crumble Bars for a classic dessert experience.

Drizzled with Caramel

• Top your bars with salted caramel sauce to enhance the sweet and tart flavors of the apples.

With Whipped Cream

• Serve with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for an extra creamy texture that complements the crumbly topping.

Pair with Coffee

• Enjoy Apple Crumble Bars alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a comforting afternoon snack.

As Breakfast Bars

• These bars can also be enjoyed as breakfast; simply grab one on the go for a delicious start to your day.

Served Warm

• Warm the bars in the oven for a few minutes before serving to bring out their flavors and make them extra cozy.

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How to Perfect Apple Crumble Bars

To ensure your Apple Crumble Bars turn out perfectly every time, follow these handy tips.

• Use Fresh Apples: Choose firm, tart apples like Granny Smith for the best flavor and texture in your filling.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix your crust just until combined; overmixing can lead to tough bars instead of tender ones.

• Chill the Dough: If you have time, chill the dough before baking. This helps create a flakier crust.

• Even Layering: Spread the apple filling evenly to ensure consistent baking and flavor throughout each bar.

• Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on the baking time; edges should be golden brown while the center remains slightly soft but set.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Crumble Bars

Apple Crumble Bars pair well with several side dishes that complement their sweet and fruity flavors. Consider serving them alongside any of these options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds creaminess and richness.

2. Greek Yogurt: Offers a tangy contrast to the sweetness—try it plain or with honey!

3. Caramel Sauce: A drizzle enhances the bar’s flavors and adds another layer of sweetness.

4. Fruit Salad: Fresh fruit provides a refreshing balance and lightens up your dessert platter.

5. Cheese Platter: Include sharp cheeses like cheddar for an interesting sweet-and-savory combination.

6. Hot Chocolate: A warm drink complements these bars well, especially in cooler weather.

7. Nut Mix: A crunchy nut mix can add some texture and health benefits alongside your sweet treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Apple Crumble Bars can be a delightful experience, but a few common mistakes might hinder your success.

• Using too many apples – Overloading your filling can make the bars soggy. Stick to the recommended amount for perfect consistency.
• Not cooling the base – Allowing the base to cool slightly before adding the filling helps maintain its structure. Don’t skip this step!
• Ignoring baking time – Each oven is different. Make sure to check your bars for doneness rather than relying solely on the timer.
• Skipping parchment paper – Lining your pan with parchment makes it easy to lift out the bars after baking. Avoid a messy cleanup by using this simple technique.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately – Baking is precise! Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure you have the right amounts for each ingredient.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Ensure they are completely cooled before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.

Freezing Apple Crumble Bars

• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
• They will last up to 3 months in the freezer for optimal taste and texture.

Reheating Apple Crumble Bars

• Oven – Preheat to 180C/350F and warm bars for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat one bar at a time for 20-30 seconds on medium power.
• Stovetop – Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Apple Crumble Bars?

Apple Crumble Bars are a delicious dessert featuring a buttery shortbread base, sweet apple filling, and crumbly topping. They offer all the flavors of traditional apple crumble in convenient bar form.

Can I use different types of apples for Apple Crumble Bars?

Yes! While Granny Smith apples are recommended for their tartness, you can mix other varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for added sweetness.

How do I customize my Apple Crumble Bars?

You can add nuts, raisins, or even spices like ginger or cloves for extra flavor. Experiment with toppings such as nuts or chocolate chips as well!

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute plain flour with a gluten-free blend and ensure any additional ingredients are certified gluten-free.

How do I know when my Apple Crumble Bars are done?

Look for a golden brown top and sides that pull away from the pan slightly. A toothpick inserted should come out clean or with minimal crumbs.

Final Thoughts

These Apple Crumble Bars are not only easy to make but also versatile enough to serve as snacks or desserts. With options for customization, you can tailor them to suit any occasion. Try making them today and enjoy their comforting flavors!