why make this recipe
Apple Bars are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. They combine the warm, comforting flavors of apples and spices with a crumbly oat crust. This recipe is easy to follow and makes a great dessert or snack that can be enjoyed by everyone. Additionally, it’s a wonderful way to use fresh apples, making it a seasonal favorite during the fall months.
how to make Apple Bars
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned oats
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 3 cups apples, peeled and chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix the flour, oats, granulated sugar, brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon together.
- Cut in the cold and cubed butter until the mixture becomes crumbly.
- Reserve 1 ½ cups of this mixture for the topping and press the rest into the lined pan. Bake for 10–12 minutes.
- While the base is baking, toss the chopped apples with lemon juice, cornstarch, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and optional nutmeg in another bowl.
- After the crust is done baking, spread the apple mixture over it. Sprinkle the reserved topping over the apples.
- Bake for an additional 30–35 minutes or until the bars are golden brown and bubbly.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing them.
- In a small bowl, whisk powdered sugar with milk to create a glaze. Drizzle this over the cooled bars before serving.
how to serve Apple Bars
Apple Bars can be served warm or at room temperature. They are delicious on their own, or you can add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra flavor. A sprinkle of cinnamon on top can enhance their taste and presentation.
how to store Apple Bars
To keep Apple Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them for a longer time, you can refrigerate them, where they can last up to a week. You can also freeze Apple Bars for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.
tips to make Apple Bars
- Make sure the butter is cold when cutting it into the dry ingredients. This helps create a flaky texture.
- Use a variety of apples for more complex flavors; mixed sweet and tart apples work great together.
- If you want extra sweetness, add more sugar to the apple mixture or top it with a sprinkle of brown sugar before baking.
- Keep an eye on the bake time; every oven is different. Look for the edges to be golden brown.
Serving Ideas
Apple Bars are versatile! They can be served as a simple dessert, a snack at a picnic, or even alongside your morning coffee or tea. They also make a lovely addition to potluck gatherings.
Final Thoughts
Apple Bars are a delicious and easy way to enjoy the flavors of apples and oats. With a simple recipe and common ingredients, you can create a tasty dessert that everyone will love. Whether for a special occasion or just to satisfy a sweet craving, these bars won’t disappoint!
FAQs
1. Can I use different fruits instead of apples?
Yes, you can substitute pears or berries for a different flavor profile!
2. Is it necessary to use fresh apples?
While fresh apples are best for flavor and texture, you can use canned apple pie filling in a pinch.
3. Can I make these bars vegan?
Yes, you can substitute the butter with a vegan alternative and use a plant-based milk for the glaze.
4. How do I know when the Apple Bars are done baking?
They are done when the edges turn golden brown and the center is bubbly.
5. Can I add nuts to the Apple Bars?
Absolutely! Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can be mixed into the apple filling or sprinkled on top for added crunch.
Apple Bars
Ingredients
Crust and Topping
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned oats
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed Ensure butter is cold for a flaky texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
Filling and Glaze
- 3 cups apples, peeled and chopped Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for complex flavors.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice Prevents browning of apples.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch Helps thicken the apple filling.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar For the glaze.
- 1–2 tablespoons milk Adjust for desired glaze consistency.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix the flour, oats, granulated sugar, brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon together.
- Cut in the cold and cubed butter until the mixture becomes crumbly.
- Reserve 1 ½ cups of this mixture for the topping and press the rest into the lined pan.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes until slightly golden.
- While the base is baking, toss the chopped apples with lemon juice, cornstarch, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and optional nutmeg in another bowl.
Assembly and Baking
- After the crust is done baking, spread the apple mixture over it.
- Sprinkle the reserved topping over the apples.
- Bake for an additional 30–35 minutes or until the bars are golden brown and bubbly.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing them.
Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk powdered sugar with milk to create a glaze.
- Drizzle this over the cooled bars before serving.