Apple Crumble Bars

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.

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

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: Add Egg to Mixture
• Step 5: Press Base into Pan
• Step 6: Bake the Base
• Step 7: Prepare Apple Filling
• How to Serve Apple Crumble Bars
• With Ice Cream
• Drizzled with Sauce
• Fresh Toppings
• Enjoyed Warm
• As Part of a Dessert Platter
• 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 other types of apples?
• How do I make gluten-free Apple Crumble Bars?
• Are Apple Crumble Bars good for meal prep?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Apple Crumble Bars are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, looking for a quick snack, or simply craving something sweet, these bars deliver flavor and comfort in every bite. Their delightful combination of buttery shortbread, tart apples, and a crumbly topping makes them irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up these delicious bars.
• Versatile – Enjoy them as an afternoon snack, dessert at dinner parties, or even breakfast with coffee!
• Flavorful – The blend of tart apples and warm spices creates a comforting flavor profile that everyone will love.
• Handheld Delight – These bars are easy to grab and go, making them perfect for picnics or lunchboxes.
• Perfectly Sweetened – Not too sweet, they strike the right balance with the natural tartness of apples.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smoother, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 20cm/8 square pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Baking parchment

Importance of Each Tool

• 20cm/8 square pan – Perfect size for baking delicious Apple Crumble Bars evenly.
• Mixing bowls – Essential for combining your ingredients without any mess.
• Whisk – Helps to blend together wet ingredients smoothly.
• Baking parchment – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier when lifting out the bars.

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 (Note 1)
– 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
– Salted caramel sauce
– Ice cream!

How to Make Apple Crumble Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 180C/350F. This ensures the bars bake evenly from the start.

Step 2: Prepare the Pan

Grease a 20cm/8 square pan and line it with baking parchment. Leave some overhang on the sides to lift out the bars easily after baking.

Step 3: Make the Base Mixture

In a mixing bowl:
* Combine melted butter, flour, white sugar, baking powder, and salt.
* Mix until no white bits of flour remain visible.

Step 4: Add Egg to Mixture

Add one egg into your mixture:
* Stir until fully combined and smooth.

Step 5: Press Base into Pan

Take about two-thirds of the mixture:
* Lightly press it into the bottom of your prepared pan.

Step 6: Bake the Base

Place in the oven:
* Bake for 15 minutes or until slightly golden.
* Remove from oven and let cool for about 5 minutes.

Step 7: Prepare Apple Filling

While your base is cooling:
In another bowl, mix together your apple filling ingredients. Get ready to layer this delicious mixture on top!

Stay tuned as we continue with further instructions on layering and baking your delightful Apple Crumble Bars!

How to Serve Apple Crumble Bars

Apple Crumble Bars are not just delicious on their own; they can be elevated with a few thoughtful serving suggestions that enhance their flavor and presentation. Here are some ideas to enjoy your delightful bars.

With Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream – A classic pairing that adds creaminess and balance to the tart apple filling.
• Caramel Swirl Ice Cream – For an extra indulgent treat, the caramel flavor complements the apple wonderfully.

Drizzled with Sauce

• Salted Caramel Sauce – Drizzle this rich sauce over the bars for a sweet and salty contrast.
• Chocolate Sauce – Add a decadent touch with warm chocolate sauce, perfect for chocolate lovers.

Fresh Toppings

• Whipped Cream – Light and fluffy whipped cream can add texture and richness.
• Fresh Berries – A handful of fresh berries adds brightness and an extra burst of flavor.

Enjoyed Warm

• Warmed Bars – Serving them warm enhances the flavors, making them even more comforting.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Dessert Platter – Include Apple Crumble Bars on a dessert platter alongside other sweets for variety at gatherings.

PIN THIS!

How to Perfect Apple Crumble Bars

For the best results when making your Apple Crumble Bars, keep these tips in mind. They will help you achieve a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

• Use Fresh Apples – Always opt for fresh granny smith apples for the best tartness and crunch.
• Cool Before Serving – Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing to achieve clean edges.
• Check Baking Time – Keep an eye on baking time; over-baking can lead to dry bars.
• Experiment with Spices – Feel free to adjust spices like cinnamon and nutmeg according to your taste preferences.
• Double the Recipe – If you’re serving a crowd, consider doubling the recipe for more delicious bars.
• Store Properly – Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge for maximum freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Crumble Bars

Apple Crumble Bars make a wonderful dessert, but they can also be complemented by various side dishes. Here are some excellent options to consider serving alongside your bars:

1. Vanilla Yogurt – A creamy side that balances sweetness with tanginess; serve chilled.
2. Cheese Plate – Pair with sharp cheddar or brie for a savory contrast; great for cheese lovers.
3. Fresh Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad can brighten up the meal while adding freshness; use seasonal fruits.
4. Coffee or Tea – A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea complements dessert beautifully; choose flavors that harmonize well.
5. Nut Mix – A crunchy nut mix offers texture and is perfect for snacking while enjoying dessert; consider roasted almonds or walnuts.
6. Chocolate Fondue – For an interactive dessert experience, serve a small pot of chocolate fondue alongside fruit dippers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Apple Crumble Bars can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Incorrect Butter Temperature: Using cold butter instead of melted butter can affect the texture of your bars. Always melt the butter before mixing it with the dry ingredients.
• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough bars. Aim for a just-combined mixture to keep them soft and crumbly.
• Not Measuring Apples Properly: Using too few or too many apples can alter the filling’s consistency. Measure your apple pieces carefully for the best results.
• Skipping the Cooling Period: Allowing the base to cool slightly before adding the filling helps prevent sogginess. Don’t rush this step!
• Ignoring Baking Time: Every oven is different. Keep an eye on your bars while baking to avoid overcooking or undercooking them.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Apple Crumble Bars in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Apple Crumble Bars

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating Apple Crumble Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 180C/350F and warm bars for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one bar at a time for about 30 seconds, checking until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Apple Crumble Bars?

Apple Crumble Bars are a delicious dessert that combines a shortbread-like base, spiced apple filling, and a crumbly topping. They offer all the flavors of traditional apple crumble in a convenient bar form.

Can I use other types of apples?

Yes! While Granny Smith apples are recommended for their tartness, feel free to experiment with Honeycrisp or Fuji apples for different flavor profiles.

How do I make gluten-free Apple Crumble Bars?

Substitute regular flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour. This will maintain the texture while making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Are Apple Crumble Bars good for meal prep?

Absolutely! These bars store well and can be made ahead of time, making them a perfect option for snacks or desserts throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Apple Crumble Bars combine all the comforting flavors of traditional apple crumble into an easy-to-handle format. This recipe is versatile; you can customize it with nuts, dried fruits, or even different spices to suit your taste. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious treat!