Soft, spiced apple bars with a buttery crumble top, giving you warm fall comfort in every slice.
Prep Time: 10 min
Cook Time: 25 min
Total Time: 35 min
Ingredients
For the apple filling
2 cups diced apples
2 tbsp sugar
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tbsp cornstarch
For the crumble base & topping
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup oats
½ cup brown sugar
¼ cup sugar
½ tsp cinnamon
¼ tsp salt
½ cup melted butter
Instructions
Preparing the Apple Filling:
Combine the diced apples with sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and cornstarch. Toss until the apples are fully coated and glossy. This mixture will thicken as it bakes, forming the soft, spiced center of the bars.
Building the Crumble Mix:
In a separate bowl, stir together the flour, oats, brown sugar, sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and mix until the texture resembles damp sand. Press two-thirds of this mixture firmly into a parchment-lined baking pan to form the base.
Layering and Topping:
Spread the apple mixture evenly over the pressed crust. Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture on top, letting some small clusters form naturally for a better texture contrast.
Baking to Finish:
Bake at 350°F for 22–25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the apple layer is bubbling slightly around the edges. Let the bars cool completely so the center sets and the slices hold together cleanly.
Variations
Caramel Apple Version:
Stir a spoonful of caramel into the apple mixture before baking for a richer, sweeter finish that melts into the crumble, similar to the flavor found in our apple cider coffee cake with crumble glaze.
Nutty Crunch Option:
Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the crumble mixture to bring more texture and a toasted flavor, especially if you enjoy the health benefits of almonds and other nuts.
Berry-Apple Twist:
Mix in a handful of berries with the apples for a brighter, tangier filling that stays soft and juicy.
Tips
Pack the base layer tightly so it doesn’t crumble when slicing.
Dice the apples small for even baking and a softer center.
Let the bars cool fully warm bars will fall apart, but cooled bars slice perfectly.
Store in the fridge for a firmer, denser texture.
Nutrition (Approx.)
Calories: 260
Carbs: 38 g
Protein: 3 g
Fat: 11 g
Quick Facts
Soft crumble texture
Warm cinnamon flavor
Perfect make-ahead treat