Apple Crumb Bars
Apple Crumb Bars are a delightful combination of buttery crust, spiced apple filling, and crumbly topping. Perfectly balanced between sweet and tart, these bars make a cozy dessert for any occasion, especially during apple season.
Prep Time 20 minutes mins
Cook Time 25 minutes mins
Total Time 45 minutes mins
Course Breakfast, Dessert
Cuisine American
Apple Filling:
- 4 cups 372 gr apples, peeled, cored, and diced (Fuji, Gala, other)
- ½ cup 100 gr brown sugar, gently packed
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 3 tablespoon lemon juice
- 6 tablespoon 85 gr butter
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Crust and Crumb Topping:
- 3 cups 360 gr all-purpose flour, (stir, spoon, & level)
- 1 cup 200 gr granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup 226 gr butter, (2 sticks) cold + cut into Tablespoons
- 1 large egg
Prepare the apples:
In a large bowl, toss the diced apples with brown sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes to release the juices.
Melt 6 tablespoons of butter in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add the apples, including their juices, and cook for about 10 minutes, or until the apples are fork-tender. Let them cool slightly before using.
Make the crust and topping:
In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. While the mixer is running, add the cold butter one tablespoon at a time until the mixture forms fine crumbs. Mix in the egg until the dough comes together in large crumbs.
Press two-thirds of the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to create the crust. Spread the cooked apples evenly on top, then crumble the remaining dough over the apples for the topping.
Bake for 25 - 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling slightly in the center.
Let the bars cool completely in the pan. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift them out for easy cutting and serving. Store any leftovers covered at room temperature. Enjoy!