Step-by-step instructions
Follow these clear and straightforward steps to create your apple crumb bars:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the cold butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Set aside about 1 1/2 cups of the crumb mixture to be used as the topping later.
- Firmly press the remaining crumb mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
- In another bowl, toss the sliced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and cornstarch until they are well coated.
- Spread the apple mixture evenly over the crust.
- Evenly sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture over the apples.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into squares.
Best ways to enjoy it
Serve these apple crumb bars warm or at room temperature for the best flavor. They pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. For a festive touch, drizzle with caramel sauce or sprinkle with powdered sugar. They also make a fantastic afternoon snack or a sweet addition to a brunch spread.
Keeping leftovers fresh
To store your apple crumb bars, cover them tightly in plastic wrap or transfer them to an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for about a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Simply wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They will maintain their flavor for up to three months.
Extra advice
Here are a few tips to ensure your apple crumb bars are a hit:
- Choose a mix of sweet and tart apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, for a flavor-packed filling.
- Ensure your butter is cold to create a flaky, crumbly texture for the topping.
- Let the bars cool completely before cutting for cleaner slices.
Creative twists
For a fun twist, try adding nuts like walnuts or pecans to the crumb mixture for added crunch. You can also incorporate dried fruits or even a splash of caramel into the apple filling for an extra layer of flavor. For a seasonal twist, consider adding cranberries or pears to the apple filling!
Your questions answered
How long does it take to prepare and bake these bars?
The total preparation and baking time is about an hour. Generally, you’ll need about 20 minutes to prep everything and around 45-50 minutes to bake.
Can I use a different type of flour?
Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or even almond flour for a nutty flavor. Just keep in mind that it may change the texture slightly.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can use a dairy-free butter alternative to replace the unsalted butter. Additionally, check that the sugar is labeled as vegan if necessary.
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Certainly! You can prepare the apple filling the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just layer it over the crust when you’re ready to bake.
With these tips and tricks, you’re well on your way to creating the perfect Grandma’s Apple Crumb Bars that will surely impress family and friends alike! Enjoy baking!
