Apple Crumble Bars: A Buttery, Sweet, and Irresistible Treat
These homemade apple crumble bars combine a buttery crust, sweet Fuji apples, and a crumbly topping for a delicious dessert or snack.
Introduction
Apple crumble bars are a delicious and comforting dessert that blends the sweetness of baked Fuji apples with a buttery oat crumble topping. With a crisp, golden crust and a cinnamon-spiced apple filling, these bars are the perfect balance of crunchy and soft textures.
Whether served warm with a scoop of ice cream or enjoyed as an afternoon snack, these apple crumble bars are an excellent way to highlight the natural flavors of fresh apples. They also make a great homemade treat for gatherings, holidays, or just because!
This easy, homemade recipe comes together with simple pantry staples and fresh Fuji apples, making it a must-try for apple lovers. Let’s dive into the details!
Ingredients
To make these delightfully crumbly and flavorful apple bars, you’ll need:
For the Crust and Topping
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup rolled oats
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Apple Filling
- 3 Fuji apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
These ingredients come together beautifully to create a buttery, sweet, and perfectly textured crumble bar!
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease an 8x8-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Crust and Crumble Topping
- In a large bowl, combine flour, rolled oats, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and melted butter.
- Mix until the ingredients form a crumbly dough.
- Press half of the mixture firmly into the bottom of the baking dish to create the crust.
Step 3: Prepare the Apple Filling
- In another bowl, toss the diced Fuji apples with cinnamon and cornstarch.
- The cornstarch thickens the filling, while cinnamon adds a warm, spiced flavor.
- Evenly spread the apple mixture over the crust.
Step 4: Add the Crumb Topping
- Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture evenly over the apple layer.
- Gently press it down to ensure a crispy, golden topping.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crisp.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely before slicing into bars.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Once cooled, cut into squares or bars and enjoy!
Now you have a batch of warm, buttery, and utterly delicious apple crumble bars!
Nutritional Benefits of Apple Crumble Bars
Apple crumble bars are not only a delightful dessert but also provide nutritional benefits when made with wholesome ingredients:
1. Fiber-Rich Apples and Oats
- Fuji apples and rolled oats are rich in dietary fiber, promoting healthy digestion and keeping you full longer.
2. Antioxidants from Apples
- Apples contain powerful antioxidants like quercetin and polyphenols, which help reduce inflammation and support heart health.
3. Natural Sweetness with Less Sugar
- Fuji apples add natural sweetness, reducing the need for excessive added sugar.
4. Cinnamon for Blood Sugar Control
- Cinnamon has been shown to help regulate blood sugar levels and improve metabolism.
5. Whole-Grain Oats for Energy
- Oats provide sustained energy and essential nutrients, making these bars a nutritious treat.
While these bars are a treat, they also bring in beneficial nutrients from wholesome ingredients!
Serving Suggestions
Apple crumble bars are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in different ways:
1. Classic Dessert
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert.
2. Breakfast or Snack
- Pair with Greek yogurt or a glass of milk for a balanced snack or breakfast.
3. Holiday and Party Treat
- These bars make an excellent homemade gift or potluck dessert for holidays and gatherings.
4. Healthy Twist
- Swap brown sugar for coconut sugar and butter for coconut oil for a healthier version!
No matter how you serve them, these apple crumble bars are sure to impress!
Final Thoughts
Apple crumble bars are a delicious, homemade treat that combines the warmth of cinnamon, the sweetness of Fuji apples, and the crunch of an oat crumble topping. They are simple to make, bursting with flavor, and perfect for any occasion.
Whether you enjoy them as a cozy dessert, a quick snack, or a homemade gift, these bars will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. So, grab some fresh Fuji apples and get baking!
References
