Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Crust and Topping
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your hands to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside 1 1/2 cups of the mixture for the topping.
Step 3: Press the Crust
Press the remaining crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Use the back of a spoon or your hands to pack it down firmly.
Step 4: Prepare the Apple Filling
In another bowl, toss the diced apples with granulated sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cornstarch. Spread the apple mixture evenly over the crust.
Step 5: Add the Topping
Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture over the apples, covering them completely.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips for the Perfect Apple Crumb Bars
Use Cold Butter: This ensures a crumbly, flaky texture for the crust and topping.
Choose the Right Apples: Tart apples like Granny Smith hold their shape well, while sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp add natural sweetness.
Add Nuts: Mix chopped walnuts or pecans into the crumb topping for extra crunch.
Drizzle with Caramel: For a decadent touch, drizzle caramel sauce over the bars before serving.
Serving Suggestions
À La Mode: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic pairing.
Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of homemade whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Coffee or Tea: Pair with a cup of coffee, tea, or hot apple cider for a cozy treat.
Gift Idea: Package these bars in a decorative box or tin for a thoughtful homemade gift.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use store-bought apple pie filling?
Yes, but homemade filling tastes fresher and allows you to control the sweetness and spices.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
3. Can I freeze these bars?
Yes! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
4. Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free flour and certified gluten-free oats.
Customization Ideas
Add Berries: Mix in fresh or frozen berries like blueberries or raspberries with the apples.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of ginger or cardamom for a unique flavor twist.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts to the crumb topping or mix them into the filling.
Caramel Apple Bars: Drizzle caramel sauce over the bars before serving for a decadent touch.
Final Thoughts
These Apple Crumb Bars are the ultimate fall dessert—easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of coffee or sharing them at a gathering, they’re sure to be a hit. Give them a try and savor the taste of autumn in every bite!