Apple Crumble Bars

Apple Crumble Bars are a delightful treat that perfectly encapsulates the comforting flavors of fall in a convenient bar form. These sweet and buttery bars combine a shortbread-like base with a jammy apple filling, topped off with a crumbly oat topping. Whether you’re looking for an easy snack or a show-stopping dessert for your next dinner party, these bars are sure to impress. The addition of salted caramel sauce and ice cream elevates this recipe to new heights, making it an irresistible choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Crumble Bars

Apple Crumble Bars offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that everyone loves.

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, these bars are perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Flavorful Filling: The mixture of granny smith apples with spices creates a deliciously tart and sweet filling.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them warm with ice cream or cold as a quick snack—they fit any occasion!
• Perfect for Sharing: Cut into squares, they make great hand-held treats for gatherings.
• Deliciously Indulgent: The crumble topping provides that satisfying crunch that complements the soft apples beautifully.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather these essential tools before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 20cm/8 square baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Pan: A good quality pan ensures even baking and makes it easy to lift out the bars once they cool.
• Mixing Bowls: Having multiple sizes helps in mixing different components without overflow.

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 Your Baking Pan

Grease a 20cm/8 square pan with butter or cooking spray. Line the bottom with baking or parchment paper, allowing some overhang. This will help you lift out the bars after baking.

Step 3: Mix the Base Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. Melted butter
2. Flour
3. White sugar
4. Baking powder
5. Salt

Mix until there are no visible bits of flour left.

Step 4: Add Egg and Form Base

Add one egg to the mixture and stir until combined. Lightly press about two-thirds of this mixture into the bottom of your prepared pan.

Step 5: Bake the Base

Place your pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes or until slightly golden. After removing it from the oven, let it cool for around 5 minutes before adding your apple filling.

Step 6: Prepare the Apple Filling

While your base is cooling, mix together all ingredients for the apple filling in another bowl until well combined.

Now you’re ready to assemble your delicious Apple Crumble Bars!

How to Serve Apple Crumble Bars

Apple Crumble Bars are versatile and can elevate any occasion. Whether you’re serving them as a snack or dessert, there are numerous ways to enjoy these delicious bars.

Classic Serving Suggestions

• With Ice Cream: Pair your Apple Crumble Bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
• Drizzled with Caramel: A warm drizzle of salted caramel sauce adds extra sweetness and richness, making each bite indulgent.

Creative Combinations

• Topped with Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream enhances the flavors and makes the bars feel more like a dessert.
• On a Cheesecake Base: Serve Apple Crumble Bars on top of a cheesecake base for an exquisite layered dessert experience.

Seasonal Touches

• With Fresh Fruits: Add slices of fresh apples or pears on the side to complement the apple filling in the bars.
• Sprinkled with Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can provide an added crunch and nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the bars.

How to Perfect Apple Crumble Bars

To achieve the perfect Apple Crumble Bars, it’s essential to follow these simple tips for success.

• Use Fresh Apples: Opt for Granny Smith or other tart apples for the best flavor balance in your filling.
• Don’t Overmix Dough: Mix just until combined to ensure a tender crust that isn’t tough.
• Chill the Butter: Using cold butter helps create a flaky texture in the shortbread base.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste your apple filling before baking; you can adjust sugar levels based on your preference for sweetness.
• Let Them Cool Completely: Allowing the bars to cool ensures they set properly and makes cutting them easier.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Crumble Bars

While Apple Crumble Bars are delicious on their own, pairing them with complementary side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Vanilla Yogurt: A creamy side that adds tanginess while balancing out the sweetness of the bars.
2. Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips: These crispy chips offer a delightful crunch and can be dipped into the apple filling.
3. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a light contrast to the rich flavors of the crumble bars.
4. Cheese Platter: Include sharp cheddar or creamy brie to create an intriguing flavor pairing with sweet desserts.
5. Hot Tea or Coffee: Warm beverages complement the comforting flavors of apple crumble, making for a cozy treat.
6. Pecan Pie Bites: Small bites of pecan pie add another layer of sweetness and texture, perfect for sharing at gatherings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Apple Crumble Bars, it’s easy to overlook a few key details that can affect the final product. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Skipping the parchment paper: Not lining your pan can lead to sticky bars that are hard to remove. Always use parchment paper with overhang for easy lifting.
• Using warm butter: Warm butter can cause the mixture to become too greasy. Make sure your butter is completely melted and cooled before mixing.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can result in tough bars. Mix just until combined for a tender texture.
• Ignoring apple variety: Different apples have varying sweetness and tartness. Using Granny Smith apples provides the perfect balance, so stick with them!
• Not letting it cool properly: Cutting into the bars while they’re still warm can make them fall apart. Allow them to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Apple Crumble Bars in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Instructions

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best flavor and texture.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place bars on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat each bar on a microwave-safe plate for about 20-30 seconds. Be careful not to overheat!
• Stovetop: Place a bar in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm until heated through, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making Apple Crumble Bars.

Can I use other fruits in Apple Crumble Bars?

You can definitely customize your fruit filling! Pears or berries work well alongside apples for a twist on the classic recipe.

How can I make Apple Crumble Bars gluten-free?

To make these bars gluten-free, substitute regular flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour. Ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

What toppings go well with Apple Crumble Bars?

Apple Crumble Bars are delicious on their own but adding whipped cream or vanilla ice cream takes them to another level!

Can I add nuts to my Apple Crumble Bars?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans can add extra crunch and flavor. Just mix them into the crumble topping before baking.

Final Thoughts

Apple Crumble Bars offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making them perfect as a quick snack or an elegant dessert. Feel free to customize them by adding your favorite fruits or toppings, ensuring they fit any occasion perfectly! Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!