Apple Crumb Bars

Apple Crumb Bars Recipe - Delicious and Easy to Make

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 40 bars

Introduction

Apple Crumb Bars are a delightful treat that combines the sweet and tart flavors of apples with a buttery, crumbly topping. This dessert is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a cozy family gathering, a festive holiday party, or simply a sweet end to a weekday meal. The recipe is straightforward, making it accessible to bakers of all skill levels. With its layers of tender apples and crunchy topping, this dessert is sure to become a favorite.

History

The concept of combining fruit with a crumbly pastry dates back centuries, with variations found in many cultures. Apple Crumb Bars, in particular, are a modern take on traditional apple pie and crumble recipes. They offer the same comforting flavors but in a more convenient bar form. This adaptation likely gained popularity in the mid-20th century in America, as home bakers sought simpler and quicker alternatives to classic desserts.

Ingredients

1 cup quick or old-fashioned (rolled) oats
1.25 cups all-purpose flour, divided
0.5 cup packed brown sugar
0.5 tsp baking powder
0.5 tsp salt
1 cup (2 sticks) butter or margarine, softened
1 large egg, beaten
4 golden delicious apples, peeled, cored, and sliced

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Lightly grease a baking pan measuring 15 inches by 10 inches by 1 inch.
Prepare the crumb topping and set it aside.
In a medium bowl, combine the flour, oats, and sugar.
Using a pastry blender or fork, cut in the butter until the mixture becomes crumbly.
In another medium bowl, combine the oats, 1 cup of flour, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Cut in the butter until the mixture becomes crumbly.
Stir in the beaten egg.
Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared pan.
Toss the apples with the sugar, remaining 0.25 cup of flour, and nutmeg.
Spread the apples over the oatmeal layer.
Sprinkle the crumb topping in a diagonal pattern over the apples.
Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until the apples are tender.
Divide the longer side of the pan, measuring 15 inches, into 8 equal sections.
Divide the shorter side of the pan, measuring 10 inches, into 5 equal sections.

Variations

Consider adding a layer of caramel sauce over the apples for a caramel apple twist. Alternatively, mix in raspberries or blackberries with the apples for a berry-apple flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Apple Crumb Bars turn out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Use cold butter for the crumb topping to achieve a more crumbly texture.

- When slicing the apples, aim for uniform thickness to ensure even cooking.

- Adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the apple mixture can enhance the flavor.

- Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing to prevent them from falling apart.

Serving Suggestions

Apple Crumb Bars can be served as is or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. They also pair well with a cup of coffee or tea.

Cooking Techniques

For a more pronounced crumb texture, try baking the crumb topping separately for a few minutes before adding it to the bars. This can add an extra crunch.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Margarine can be replaced with butter for a richer flavor, or with a plant-based alternative for a dairy-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

These bars can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. This can enhance the flavors and texture.

Presentation Ideas

Cut the bars into neat squares and dust them with powdered sugar for a simple yet elegant presentation. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Apple Crumb Bars pair beautifully with a sharp cheddar cheese, offering a delightful contrast of sweet and savory flavors. For a drink pairing, consider a dessert wine or a spiced cider.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can be enjoyed cold or gently reheated in the microwave.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Apple Crumb Bars contains approximately 300 calories. The calories are derived from the combination of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins in the ingredients.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Apple Crumb Bars contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. The primary sources of carbohydrates in this recipe are the all-purpose flour, oats, and brown sugar, as well as the natural sugars from the apples.

Fats

The total fat content per serving of Apple Crumb Bars is around 12 grams. The majority of the fat comes from the margarine used in the crumb mixture and topping. Opting for a lower-fat margarine can reduce the overall fat content.

Proteins

Apple Crumb Bars provide a modest amount of protein, with about 3 grams per serving. The protein in this recipe comes from the egg and the marginal amounts found in the flour and oats.

Vitamins and minerals

This dessert is a source of several vitamins and minerals, primarily from the apples. Apples contribute vitamins C and K, as well as potassium and dietary fiber. The oats also add a small amount of iron and B vitamins.

Alergens

Common allergens in this recipe include gluten (from the flour) and eggs. Individuals with sensitivities to these ingredients should exercise caution.

Summary

Overall, Apple Crumb Bars are a delicious treat that, while not the healthiest option, can be enjoyed in moderation. They provide energy primarily through carbohydrates and fats, with a small amount of protein, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Apple Crumb Bars are a versatile and beloved dessert that combines the classic flavors of apple pie with the convenience of a bar. This recipe is not only delicious but also adaptable to various dietary needs and preferences. Whether served at a casual family dinner or a formal gathering, these bars are sure to impress.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I discovered this recipe is a cherished memory. It was a beautiful autumn day, the sun shining brightly through the colorful leaves of the apple trees in our backyard. I had just returned from a visit to the farmers market, where I had picked up a basket of juicy, ripe apples. As I sat at my kitchen table, surrounded by the comforting aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg, I knew I wanted to create something special with those apples.

I rummaged through my collection of old cookbooks, searching for inspiration. And there it was, tucked away in the pages of an old, worn recipe book that my own grandmother had passed down to me. The recipe for Apple Crumb Bars.

I remember reading through the ingredients and instructions, feeling a sense of excitement building within me. The combination of sweet, tender apples, warm spices, and a buttery crumb topping sounded like the perfect treat for a crisp autumn day.

As I set to work peeling and slicing the apples, I couldn't help but think about all the memories that this recipe held. I remembered my grandmother baking these bars for me when I was just a little girl. The way the scent of apples and cinnamon would fill her cozy kitchen, making me feel warm and loved.

I recalled how she would patiently show me how to mix the dough for the crumb topping, teaching me to use my fingers to create the perfect texture. And how we would sit together at the table, waiting anxiously for the bars to come out of the oven, the anticipation almost too much to bear.

As I worked, I thought about all the other recipes my grandmother had taught me over the years. The secret to her flaky pie crust, the perfect ratio of sugar to fruit in her jams, the precise way to knead bread dough until it was just right. Each recipe held a story, a memory, a piece of her that she had passed down to me.

And as I pulled the Apple Crumb Bars out of the oven, the golden crust glistening with melted butter and sugar, I knew that this recipe would become one of my own cherished traditions. I could already imagine passing it down to my own grandchildren one day, teaching them the same skills and sharing the same love that my grandmother had given to me.

I let the bars cool on the counter, the sweet scent of apples and spices filling the air. And as I took my first bite, I knew that this recipe would always hold a special place in my heart. It was more than just a recipe - it was a connection to my past, a link to my family, a reminder of the love and care that had been passed down through generations.

And as I sat at my kitchen table, enjoying the taste of those delicious Apple Crumb Bars, I couldn't help but smile. Because in that moment, surrounded by the flavors and memories of my past, I felt truly blessed to have such a rich culinary heritage to draw upon. And I knew that I would continue to honor that heritage, one recipe at a time.