Apple Crumb Bars: The Perfect Bite of Fall Comfort

Apple Crumb Bars are one of those effortless bakes that check every box: simple ingredients, minimal prep, and maximum comfort in every bite. With a buttery base, warm spiced apples in the middle, and a golden oat-studded crumble on top, these bars are the perfect answer to what to make when you want something cozy, nostalgic, and totally satisfying.

They work beautifully as a dessert, snack, or even a cheeky breakfast bite. Each layer brings something special—the base is shortbread-like and sturdy, the apple center is juicy and warmly spiced, and the oat topping adds crunch and visual appeal. And with no need for special equipment or fancy steps, they’re as easy to make as they are to eat.

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Ingredients

This recipe yields about 9 medium or 12 small bars, depending on how you slice them.

Ingredient	Quantity
All-purpose flour	1 cup
Granulated sugar	¼ cup
Unsalted butter	¼ cup (softened)
Apples (peeled, diced)	2 medium
Brown sugar	¼ cup
Ground cinnamon	½ teaspoon
Rolled oats	¼ cup

Ingredient Notes:

• Apples: Choose a tart, firm variety like Granny Smith or Braeburn to keep the bars from becoming too sweet or mushy.
• Butter: Soften but don’t melt—this helps create the right crumbly texture for the crust and topping.
• Oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats give the topping structure and texture. Avoid instant oats, which can become mushy.

Optional upgrades include a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of vanilla in the apple mixture for added depth.

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Equipment Needed

No fancy gadgets are needed for this bake—just a few kitchen basics:

• Mixing bowls: One for the dough, one for the apple filling.
• Pastry cutter or fork: For cutting the butter into the flour mixture, although clean hands work just as well.
• 8×8-inch baking pan: Standard size for bar recipes, but any small square pan will do.
• Spatula or spoon: For pressing in the base and layering the apples.
• Knife or bench scraper: To cleanly slice the cooled bars.

This setup makes these bars an easy choice for beginner bakers or quick baking projects.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease an 8-inch square baking pan. You can also line it with parchment paper for easier removal and cleaner cuts later.

Step 2: Make the Crumb Base

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and softened butter. Use a pastry cutter, fork, or your fingers to mix until the texture resembles coarse crumbs. This will serve as both the base and the topping.

Press half of this crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Use the back of a spoon or flat bottom of a glass to get an even layer.

Step 3: Prepare the Apple Filling

In a separate bowl, toss the diced apples with brown sugar and cinnamon until evenly coated. Spoon the apple mixture over the crust layer, spreading it out into an even layer.

Step 4: Finish the Topping

Add the rolled oats to the remaining crumb mixture. Stir to combine, then sprinkle it evenly over the apple layer. Press down gently with your hands so the topping adheres slightly.

Step 5: Bake

Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is golden and the apples are soft and bubbly underneath. The aroma will let you know it’s ready.

Let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing—this helps them set and makes for cleaner edges.

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Tips and Variations

• Add nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans add crunch and richness to the crumble topping.
• Mix-ins: Add a handful of raisins or dried cranberries to the apple layer for a sweet-tart contrast.
• Make it whole grain: Swap ½ cup of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
• Gluten-free option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and certified GF oats.
• Add a glaze: Drizzle cooled bars with a simple powdered sugar icing or warm caramel sauce for dessert-worthy presentation.

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Serving Suggestions

These bars are best served slightly warm or at room temperature. Enjoy them as a snack with tea or coffee, or dress them up with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for dessert.

They also make a fantastic addition to a holiday dessert table or brunch spread, offering a lighter, more portable alternative to apple pie.

For extra flair, dust them with a little powdered sugar before serving or garnish with a pinch of cinnamon.

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Pairings

Here’s what pairs well with the cozy spice and fruit notes of these bars:

• Drinks: Try them with black tea, cinnamon chai, spiced apple cider, or a latte with a dash of nutmeg.
• Cocktails: A warm bourbon apple cider or spiked eggnog (during the holidays) pairs beautifully.
• Non-alcoholic options: Vanilla almond milk or hot cocoa with cinnamon works well for kids and adults alike.

Their mild sweetness and cinnamon kick complement both warm and cool seasonal beverages.

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Storage and Reheating

• Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to 5 days—just bring to room temp or warm slightly before serving.
• Freezer: Wrap individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temp or reheat in a 300°F oven for 5–7 minutes.

Avoid storing with icing or caramel topping to maintain the crispness of the crumble.

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Nutritional Information (Per Bar, Based on 9 Bars)

• Calories: ~180
• Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Protein: 2g
• Allergens: Gluten, dairy

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

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Conclusion

Apple Crumb Bars are everything you want in a quick, comforting bake—simple ingredients, warm flavor, and a tender crumb with just the right amount of texture. Whether you’re baking for a gathering or simply craving something sweet and cozy, these bars deliver every time.

Give them a try this week—slice them thick or thin, glaze them or keep them simple, and don’t forget to share how you made them your own in the comments. This one’s a keeper.

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