Apple Crumble Bars

Recipe video above. Tastes like Apple Crumble – in bar form! These Apple Crumble Bars are a delightful treat that combines a buttery base, sweet apple filling, and a crumbly topping. Perfect for various occasions, from casual snacks to elegant dinner parties, these bars are sure to impress. The unique blend of flavors and textures will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these bars in no time.
• Versatile Treat: Serve them warm as a dessert with ice cream or enjoy them cold as a snack any time of day.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of tart granny smith apples and warm spices creates an irresistible taste.
• Perfect for Sharing: Cut them into squares and serve at gatherings, ensuring there’s enough for everyone.
• Customizable: Add nuts or dried fruits for an extra twist on this classic recipe.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the delicious world of Apple Crumble Bars, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 20cm/8 square pan
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or spoon
• Baking/parchment paper
• Knife for chopping

Importance of Each Tool

• 20cm/8 square pan: The perfect size ensures even baking and easy slicing.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to combine ingredients without mess.
• Baking/parchment paper: Prevents sticking, making it easy to lift out the bars once baked.

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 that the bars bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Pan

Grease a 20cm/8 square pan with butter or oil. Line it with baking/parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later.

Step 3: Make the Base Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine:
* Melted unsalted butter
* Flour
* White sugar
* Baking powder
* A pinch of salt

Mix until there are no visible white bits of flour.

Step 4: Add the Egg

Add one beaten egg to the mixture. Stir until well combined.

Step 5: Press into the Pan

Lightly press about two-thirds of the mixture into the bottom of your prepared pan. This forms the base layer for your bars.

Step 6: Bake the Base

Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until slightly golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool for five minutes.

Step 7: Prepare Apple Filling

While the base is cooling, mix together your apple filling ingredients in a separate bowl. Enjoy making these delicious Apple Crumble Bars!

How to Serve Apple Crumble Bars

Apple crumble bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a dessert to impress your guests, there are plenty of serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

With a Drizzle of Salted Caramel

• Adding salted caramel sauce on top enhances the sweetness and brings out the flavors of the apple filling.

A Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream

• Pairing these bars with creamy vanilla ice cream creates a delicious contrast between warm and cold, perfect for any occasion.

Fresh Whipped Cream

• Light and airy whipped cream adds a touch of elegance and balances the richness of the crumble bars.

Dusting of Powdered Sugar

• A light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top makes for an attractive presentation and adds just a hint of sweetness.

Accompanied by Coffee or Tea

• Enjoying these bars alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea makes for a cozy snack break or dessert after dinner.

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How to Perfect Apple Crumble Bars

To achieve the best apple crumble bars, there are some simple tips you can follow that will enhance their flavor and texture.

• Use Tart Apples: Granny Smith apples work great because their tartness balances the sweetness in the recipe.
• Chill the Dough: Letting your dough chill before baking helps it hold its shape better and improves texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Mixing just until combined keeps the crust tender instead of tough.
• Add Extra Spices: Enhance flavor by adding more cinnamon or nutmeg for a spicier kick.
• Let Them Cool: Allowing the bars to cool before cutting helps prevent them from falling apart.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Crumble Bars

Serving apple crumble bars is even better with complementary side dishes. Here are some options to consider:

1. Cheese Plate: A selection of cheeses like aged cheddar or brie pairs well with sweet treats, adding savory notes.
2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can lighten up your dessert table and add color.
3. Yogurt Parfait: Layering yogurt with granola and fruits offers a healthy balance to sweet apple bars.
4. Pumpkin Soup: A warm bowl of pumpkin soup provides comforting flavors that contrast beautifully with sweet desserts.
5. Savory Scones: Serving scones, such as rosemary or cheese, can create an interesting flavor pairing with sweet treats.
6. Hot Chocolate: A rich hot chocolate provides warmth and indulgence when shared alongside apple crumble bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Apple Crumble Bars, it’s easy to make simple mistakes that can affect the final product. Avoid these common pitfalls to ensure delicious results.

• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much can lead to a tough base. Mix until just combined for a tender shortbread-like texture.
• Using the Wrong Apples: Not all apples work well for baking. Stick to tart varieties like Granny Smith for the best flavor and texture.
• Not Prepping the Baking Pan: Skipping greasing and lining the pan can lead to sticking. Always prepare your pan properly to ensure easy removal.
• Ignoring Cooling Time: Cutting into warm bars can make them crumble. Allow them to cool before slicing for cleaner cuts.
• Forgetting About Spices: Missing spices can dull the flavor. Don’t skip cinnamon and nutmeg; they enhance the apple filling beautifully.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Apple Crumble Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Ensure they are completely cooled before covering to avoid moisture buildup.

Freezing Apple Crumble Bars

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality.

Reheating Apple Crumble Bars

• Oven: Preheat oven to 180C/350F and bake for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Warm on a microwave-safe plate for 20-30 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make my Apple Crumble Bars more flavorful?

Adding extra spices like cloves or ginger can enhance the flavor profile of your Apple Crumble Bars. Experiment with different combinations!

Can I use other fruits in my crumble bars?

Yes! You can substitute apples with pears, berries, or peaches. Just adjust sugar according to the fruit’s sweetness.

What is the best way to serve Apple Crumble Bars?

Apple Crumble Bars are delightful served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzled with salted caramel sauce.

How long do Apple Crumble Bars last?

When stored properly, Apple Crumble Bars last up to 5 days in the refrigerator and up to 3 months when frozen.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend that works well in baking recipes.

Final Thoughts

Apple Crumble Bars are not only delicious but also versatile, perfect for any occasion as a handheld snack or dessert. Feel free to customize by adding nuts or different fruits based on your preference!