Apple Crumble Bars

Recipe video above. Tastes like Apple Crumble – in bar form! These Apple Crumble Bars are a delightful treat, perfect for any occasion. With a buttery shortbread-like base, a jammy apple filling, and a crumbly topping, they are ideal as a quick snack or an elegant dessert for your dinner party. Drizzle with salted caramel sauce and serve with ice cream for an extra indulgent experience!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these bars are beginner-friendly.
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of sweet apples and warm spices creates a comforting, delicious taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as a handheld snack or elevate them into an impressive dessert.
• Perfect for Any Season: While they shine in fall, these bars can be enjoyed year-round.
• Great for Sharing: With 9 to 12 servings, they’re perfect for gatherings or family events.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather the essential tools that will help you create these delicious Apple Crumble Bars.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• 20cm/8 square pan: This size is ideal for evenly baking the bars and allows for easy cutting into squares.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls makes it easier to combine ingredients without creating a mess.
• Whisk: A whisk helps to thoroughly mix the batter, ensuring smooth consistency without lumps.

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 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 your bars bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Pan

Grease a 20cm (8) square pan. Line it with baking parchment, allowing some overhang. This will help you lift the bars out easily once baked.

Step 3: Make the Base Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine:
melted butter
plain flour
white sugar
baking powder
salt

Mix until you can no longer see white bits of flour.

Step 4: Add Egg to Mixture

Add one egg to the mixture and mix until fully incorporated.

Step 5: Press Into Pan

Lightly press two-thirds of the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan. This will form your base layer.

Step 6: Bake Base Layer

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

Step 7: Prepare Apple Filling

While the base is cooling, mix together your apple filling ingredients in another bowl.

Now you are ready to continue building your flavorful 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 serve them warm or chilled, these bars are perfect for any occasion. Here are some tasty serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.

With Salted Caramel Sauce

• Drizzle warm salted caramel sauce over the top for an indulgent touch.

A Scoop of Ice Cream

• Pair with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream to balance the sweetness and add creaminess.

Fresh Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top for a light and fluffy contrast.

Sliced Almonds or Pecans

• Sprinkle toasted nuts for an added crunch and nutty flavor that complements the apple filling.

Dusting of Powdered Sugar

• Lightly dust with powdered sugar before serving to enhance the visual appeal and sweetness.

With a Cup of Tea or Coffee

• Enjoy your Apple Crumble Bars alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee to create a cozy atmosphere.

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How to Perfect Apple Crumble Bars

Perfecting your Apple Crumble Bars is all about getting the right balance of flavors and textures. Here are some tips to ensure your bars turn out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Apples: Fresh granny smith apples provide the best tartness and flavor for your filling.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining ingredients, mix just until incorporated to maintain a tender texture.
• Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting to achieve clean slices.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste your apple mixture before baking; feel free to adjust sugar if you prefer it sweeter or less sweet.
• Add Spice: Experiment with additional spices like ginger or cloves for extra warmth in the filling.
• Storing Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days for the best taste.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Crumble Bars

When serving Apple Crumble Bars, pairing them with complementary side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Vanilla Yogurt: A creamy yogurt adds a tangy contrast that pairs well with sweet bars.
2. Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad can provide a refreshing balance alongside the richness of the bars.
3. Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips: Crunchy, sweet chips make a fun side that echoes the flavors of apple crumble.
4. Cheese Plate: A selection of cheeses, particularly sharp cheddar, offers a savory note that enhances sweetness.
5. Spiced Hot Cider: Warm spiced cider creates a cozy pairing that’s perfect for fall gatherings.
6. Chocolate Sauce: Serve with chocolate sauce for those who love an extra rich indulgence alongside their dessert.
7. Caramel Popcorn: The crunchy texture and caramel flavor complement the soft, buttery bars beautifully.
8. Tea Bread: A slice of moist tea bread can be an excellent accompaniment, adding variety to your dessert table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Apple Crumble Bars, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes that can affect your results.

• Skipping the parchment paper: Not lining the pan can make it hard to remove the bars after baking. Always line your pan with parchment for easy lifting.
• Overmixing the base: Mixing too much can lead to a tough texture. Stop mixing as soon as you don’t see dry flour.
• Using unripe apples: Unripe apples won’t give you that sweet filling. Choose ripe Granny Smith apples for the best flavor.
• Neglecting cooling time: Cutting into warm bars can cause them to crumble. Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing.
• Not adjusting spices: Everyone has different taste preferences. Feel free to increase or decrease spices like cinnamon and nutmeg based on your liking.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Place parchment between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Apple Crumble Bars

• Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap for easier thawing.

Reheating Apple Crumble Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 180C/350F, place bars on a baking tray, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual bars on high for about 20-30 seconds. Adjust time based on your microwave’s power.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about making Apple Crumble Bars.

How do I enhance the flavor of Apple Crumble Bars?

Adding a splash of lemon juice or vanilla extract can brighten the flavor of your apple filling.

Can I use other types of apples?

Yes! While Granny Smith is ideal, you can mix different varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for added sweetness.

Are Apple Crumble Bars gluten-free?

You can make gluten-free Apple Crumble Bars by substituting regular flour with a gluten-free blend.

What toppings pair well with Apple Crumble Bars?

Consider serving them with whipped cream, ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra treat.

Final Thoughts

Apple Crumble Bars are not only delicious but also versatile. They make a perfect snack or dessert option. You can customize them by adding nuts or switching up spices. Don’t hesitate to try this delightful recipe!