What type of apples work best for the filling?

A mix of sweet and tart apples enhances the flavor balance, with varieties like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp recommended.

How do I achieve a crumbly texture in the crust?

Use cold, cubed butter and combine it quickly with flour and sugar using a pastry cutter or fingers until coarse crumbs form.

Yes, adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the crumble mixture adds a delightful crunch and depth of flavor.

They are delicious served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or cooled to let the layers set firmly.

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days for optimal freshness.

Tender, buttery crumble bars layered with spiced apple filling—perfect for fall or any time you crave a comforting treat.

I first served these bars during a chilly autumn weekend, and they quickly became a family favorite for cozy gatherings.

For the Crumble: 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour, 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter cold and cubed, 1 large egg
For the Apple Filling: 3 medium apples (about 400 g) peeled cored and diced, 1/3 cup (70 g) brown sugar, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Preheat oven:: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch (20x20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper leaving an overhang for easy removal.
Mix dry ingredients:: In a large bowl combine flour granulated sugar baking powder cinnamon and salt. Add cold butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add egg:: Add the egg and mix until just combined. The dough will be crumbly.
Form crust:: Press about two thirds of the crumble mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even layer.
Prepare apple filling:: In a separate bowl toss diced apples with brown sugar lemon juice cinnamon and cornstarch until evenly coated.
Assemble bars:: Spread the apple mixture evenly over the crust. Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture over the apples pressing lightly.
Bake:: Bake for 38–42 minutes or until the top is golden brown and apples are bubbly.
Cool and serve:: Cool completely in the pan before lifting out and slicing into bars.

These bars always bring my family together, especially during the holidays when warm spices fill the kitchen.

Serve warm with vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience that everyone will love.

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Contains wheat (gluten), egg, and dairy (butter). Check labels if substitutions are needed for allergens.

These apple cinnamon crumble bars are a comforting treat perfect for cozy moments with loved ones.

→ What type of apples work best for the filling?: A mix of sweet and tart apples enhances the flavor balance, with varieties like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp recommended.
→ How do I achieve a crumbly texture in the crust?: Use cold, cubed butter and combine it quickly with flour and sugar using a pastry cutter or fingers until coarse crumbs form.
→ Can I add nuts to the crumble topping?: Yes, adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the crumble mixture adds a delightful crunch and depth of flavor.
→ Should I serve the bars warm or chilled?: They are delicious served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or cooled to let the layers set firmly.
→ How long do these bars keep fresh?: Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days for optimal freshness.