Name: Apple Crumble Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Western
Ingredients: Base & Crumble Topping:; 125g (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted; 2 cups (300g) plain (all-purpose) flour; ½ cup (100g) white sugar; ½ tsp baking powder; Pinch of salt; 1 egg; Crumble Topping:; ⅓ cup (30g) rolled oats; Apple Filling:; 3–4 large Granny Smith apples, diced (~4 cups); ¼ cup (35g) plain flour (all-purpose); ¼ cup (50g) white sugar; ½ tsp cinnamon; ¼ tsp nutmeg; For Serving:; Salted caramel sauce (optional); Ice cream (optional)

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Apple Crumble Bars are a cozy, crowd-pleasing dessert featuring tender spiced apples layered between a buttery shortbread-style base and a golden oat crumble topping. With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, these bars are perfect for fall gatherings, holiday treats, or anytime you’re craving a comforting homemade sweet.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These bars combine the best of apple pie and buttery crumble in a handheld form. The thick, soft base supports the sweet, warmly spiced apple filling, while the oat-laced topping adds just the right amount of crunch. They’re easy to make, ideal for sharing, and can be served warm with a scoop of ice cream or cold as a grab-and-go treat. Bonus: no rolling pin or pie crust required! Apple Crumble Bars

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Base & Crumble Topping:

125g (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
2 cups (300g) plain (all-purpose) flour
½ cup (100g) white sugar
½ tsp baking powder
Pinch of salt
1 egg

For Crumble Topping:

⅓ cup (30g) rolled oats

Apple Filling:

3–4 large Granny Smith apples, diced (~4 cups)
¼ cup (35g) plain flour (all-purpose)
¼ cup (50g) white sugar
½ tsp cinnamon
¼ tsp nutmeg

For Serving (optional):

Salted caramel sauce
Ice cream

Directions

Preheat Oven & Prepare Pan:
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 20cm (8″) square baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy lifting.
Make the Base:
In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, flour, sugar, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix until no dry flour remains. Add the egg and stir until evenly combined.
Press and Bake the Base:
Press about two-thirds of the dough mixture evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly golden. Let cool for 5 minutes.
Prepare the Apple Filling:
While the base bakes, toss diced apples with flour, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a bowl until well coated.
Make the Crumble Topping:
Add the rolled oats to the remaining dough mixture. Mix with a spoon or fingers until the oats are incorporated and a crumbly texture forms.
Assemble the Bars:
Spread the apple mixture evenly over the baked base. Crumble the oat topping evenly over the apples.
Bake Again:
Return the pan to the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crisp.
Cool and Serve:
Allow the bars to cool in the pan for a few minutes. Then lift them out using the parchment overhang. Cut into squares or bars. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Optional: Top with salted caramel sauce and a scoop of ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Servings and timing

Servings: 9–12 people
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Calories per serving: Approximately 300–350 kcal (depending on serving size and toppings)

Variations

Change the apples: Use Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala apples for a sweeter flavor.
Add nuts: Stir chopped walnuts or pecans into the crumble topping for added crunch.
Mix in berries: Add a handful of blueberries or raspberries to the apple filling for a fruity twist.
Spice it up: Add cloves or allspice for deeper fall spice flavor.
Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free flour blend and certified gluten-free oats.

Storage/Reheating

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

To reheat, microwave individual bars for 10–15 seconds or warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–7 minutes.

To freeze, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat from frozen.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple?

Yes, any firm apple like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Braeburn will work well. Sweeter apples may need less sugar in the filling.

Do I have to peel the apples?

Peeling is recommended for the best texture, but you can leave the skins on if you prefer a more rustic feel.

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, but rolled oats give a better texture. Quick oats will blend more into the topping.

How do I know when the bars are done?

The topping should be golden brown, and the apples should be soft when pierced with a knife.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, they’re great for make-ahead. Prepare and store them up to 1 day in advance, then serve as desired.

What’s the best way to cut clean slices?

Allow the bars to cool completely and use a sharp knife. Wipe the blade clean between cuts for the neatest slices.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. You may need to increase the second baking time slightly.

Is the caramel sauce necessary?

Not at all—it’s optional but adds an indulgent touch. The bars are delicious on their own.

Can I use butter instead of melted butter in the crumble?

Stick to melted butter as it helps bind the base and topping mixture correctly.

Are these bars good cold?

Yes, they’re great cold, but even better warm with a scoop of ice cream.

Conclusion

Apple Crumble Bars bring together everything you love about a warm apple dessert in a portable, easy-to-make format. With layers of buttery crumble, spiced apple filling, and optional caramel drizzle, they’re perfect for cozy nights, potlucks, or anytime you want a sweet slice of comfort. Serve warm with ice cream or enjoy chilled straight from the fridge—either way, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.