Cooking method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking pan by lining it with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, combine the room temperature butter and light brown sugar, beating until fluffy.
- Mix in the vanilla and flour to form a crumbly dough. Press the mixture into the bottom of your prepared pan and bake for about 12-14 minutes, just until set.
- While the crust is baking, toss the sliced apples with 2 tablespoons of flour and the granulated sugar. Once the crust is done, layer the apple mixture evenly over it.
- In another bowl, stir together the sugars, flour, cinnamon, salt, and oats. Add the cold butter cubes and cut in using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Sprinkle the crumbly topping generously over the apple layer. Bake for 45-50 minutes until the top is golden brown and the apples are bubbly.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing them into squares.
Best ways to enjoy it
Apple Crisp Bars can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a decadent treat. For a unique twist, consider drizzling a caramel sauce on top or sprinkling with nuts before serving. Pair them with a cup of hot cider or coffee for the perfect afternoon snack.
Keeping leftovers fresh
Store your leftover Apple Crisp Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for about a week. For even longer storage, freeze the bars individually wrapped in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Just remember to let them thaw in the fridge or at room temperature before reheating.
Helpful cooking tips
To ensure your Apple Crisp Bars turn out perfectly each time, here are some helpful tips:
- Make sure your butter is at the right temperature (room temperature for the crust and cold for the topping).
- Don’t skip the step of tossing the apples with flour and sugar. It helps prevent the filling from getting soggy.
- Experiment with different apple varieties for differing sweetness and flavor profiles. Granny Smith apples provide a nice tartness, while Honeycrisp adds sweetness.
Creative twists
Feel free to get creative with your Apple Crisp Bars! Consider adding dried fruits, like cranberries or raisins, or even swapping in different spices such as nutmeg or allspice for a unique flavor. For a gluten-free option, use a blend of gluten-free flour and oats. You can also transform these bars into a fall-inspired treat by incorporating pumpkin puree into the apple filling!
Common questions
What is the prep time for Apple Crisp Bars?
The total prep time is about 15-20 minutes, and the cooking time is around 1 hour, making it a great option for a quicker dessert.
Can I use frozen apples for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen apples! Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before using them in the recipe.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
Look for a golden brown topping, and check that the apples are bubbling around the edges—this indicates that they are thoroughly cooked.
Apple Crisp Bars are a delightful, easy-to-make dessert that everyone will adore. Enjoy the baking process and, of course, the delicious result!
