These Classic Apple Crumb Bars combine tender, buttery crust layers with a warm spiced apple filling. Each bite bursts with cinnamon-kissed apples wrapped in a soft, crumbly dough that melts in your mouth. Perfect for cozy fall gatherings or a quick sweet fix, these bars are the definition of comfort dessert made simple.
Ingredients
For the Crust and Crumb Topping:
- All-purpose flour: 2½ cups
- Granulated sugar: 1 cup
- Baking powder: ½ teaspoon
- Ground cinnamon: ½ teaspoon
- Unsalted butter (cold, cubed): 1 cup
- Large egg: 1
For the Apple Filling:
- Apples (peeled, diced): 5 cups
- Granulated sugar: ½ cup
- All-purpose flour: 2 tablespoons
- Ground cinnamon: ½ teaspoon
- Ground nutmeg: ¼ teaspoon
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2️⃣ Prepare the Crust and Crumb Mixture
In a large bowl, mix together flour, sugar, baking powder, and cinnamon. Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the egg and mix until just combined. Divide the mixture in half — one for the base, one for the topping.
3️⃣ Make the Apple Filling
In another bowl, toss the diced apples with sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg until evenly coated.
4️⃣ Assemble the Bars
Press half of the crumb mixture firmly into the prepared baking pan. Spread the apple filling evenly over the crust, then sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture on top.
5️⃣ Bake
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the apples are tender.
6️⃣ Cool and Serve
Allow to cool completely before cutting into squares. Serve as is, or top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!
Who Is This Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for:
- Home bakers who love classic, comforting desserts.
- Busy families wanting an easy make-ahead treat.
- Anyone looking to use up extra apples in a delicious way!
Why It’s Great
- ✅ Simple Ingredients: Everything is pantry-friendly and affordable.
- 🍏 Full of Flavor: Sweet, spiced apples and buttery crumbs create the perfect balance.
- 🕒 Quick Prep: No fancy tools or long prep times required.
- 💡 Versatile: Great for breakfast, dessert, or even as a lunchbox snack.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Pastry cutter or fork
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Knife and cutting board
Storage
Store cooled apple crumb bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
To freeze, wrap each bar individually and store for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes to regain that fresh-baked texture.
FAQ
Q: What are the best apples to use?
A: Tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best, but any firm apple will do.
Q: Can I make these gluten-free?
A: Yes! Substitute the flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
Q: Can I add nuts?
A: Absolutely! Chopped pecans or walnuts add great crunch to the topping.
Q: Do these bars need to be refrigerated?
A: Not for the first two days, but refrigeration extends freshness.
Conclusion
These Classic Apple Crumb Bars are everything you love about homemade apple pie — but easier and faster to make! Whether you’re baking for a holiday party, a cozy weekend, or just because, this recipe delivers warm, spiced perfection in every bite.
Try them once, and they’ll become your go-to apple dessert all year long. 🍎✨
