Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 4-5 medium apples, peeled and grated
• 1 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp sugar (optional, adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp cinnamon

For the Dough:

• 1 egg
• 100 g (½ cup) sugar
• 100 g (½ cup) sour cream
• 250 g (2 cups) flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• Pinch of salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract or 1 packet of vanillin
• 100 g (½ cup) cold butter, cubed

For Topping:

• 50 g (⅓ cup) chopped walnuts

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling

1. Peel and grate the apples into a bowl.
2. Heat a pan over medium heat and melt the butter. Add the grated apples.
3. Stir in the sugar (if using) and cinnamon. Cook for 5–7 minutes until the apples soften and the mixture becomes fragrant. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the egg and sugar. Beat until the mixture is light and creamy.
2. Add the sour cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix well.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Gradually add this to the wet ingredients.
4. Add the cold butter cubes and use your hands or a pastry cutter to work them into the dough until crumbly but cohesive.

Step 3: Assemble the Bars

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking dish (approximately 9×9 inches) with parchment paper.
2. Press two-thirds of the dough into the bottom of the prepared dish to form an even crust.
3. Spread the apple filling evenly over the crust.
4. Crumble the remaining dough over the top of the apple filling, followed by the chopped walnuts.

Step 4: Bake and Cool

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
2. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely in the pan before slicing into bars.

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Servings and Calories

• Servings: 12 bars
• Calories per serving: Approximately 190 kcal

Why This Recipe is Timeless

Apple crumble bars bring together all the elements of a classic dessert. The buttery, crumbly dough combined with the spiced apple filling evokes a sense of warmth and comfort. This dessert has stood the test of time because it takes the humble apple and transforms it into something truly special.

Apples have been a cornerstone of baking for centuries, and recipes like this one are a celebration of their versatility. These bars are perfect for any occasion—be it a holiday feast, a cozy fall evening, or a simple weekday treat. Their adaptability also ensures they can be tweaked to suit modern palates while retaining their nostalgic charm.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 190 kcal
• Fat: 9 g
• Carbohydrates: 24 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Fiber: 1.5 g
• Sugar: 12 g

Tips for Making Perfect Apple Crumble Bars

1. Choose the Right Apples: Opt for firm, tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best flavor and texture.
2. Adjust Sweetness: Depending on the natural sweetness of your apples, you may want to adjust the sugar in the filling.
3. Ensure Cold Butter: Using cold butter in the dough ensures a flaky, crumbly texture.
4. Chill Before Slicing: Allow the bars to cool completely to make clean, neat slices.

Storage Tips

• Room Temperature: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: Keep them in the fridge for up to a week.
• Freezing: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven before serving.

FAQs

Q: Can I use other fruits?
A: Yes! Pears, peaches, or even berries can be substituted for apples. Adjust the cooking time and sugar to suit the fruit.

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.

Q: What can I use instead of walnuts?
A: Pecans, almonds, or even shredded coconut make excellent alternatives.

Conclusion

Classic Apple Crumble Bars are more than just a dessert—they are a timeless reminder of the joys of homemade baking. From the moment you take your first bite, the harmony of flavors and textures transports you to a place of warmth, comfort, and nostalgia. The buttery, crumbly base melts in your mouth, while the spiced apple filling bursts with a sweet, tangy freshness that perfectly balances the richness of the dough. The walnuts add a layer of crunch that elevates this humble treat into something extraordinary.

What makes this recipe truly special is its universal appeal. It’s not bound by seasons or occasions; these bars are just as delightful served warm during a chilly autumn afternoon as they are chilled on a sunny summer day. They’re a testament to the idea that simple ingredients, when combined with care and a touch of creativity, can create something truly remarkable.

The versatility of this recipe also contributes to its timelessness. Whether you’re catering to traditional tastes or experimenting with modern twists—like adding caramel drizzles, swapping apples for pears, or incorporating seasonal spices—the heart of this dessert remains unchanged. Its charm lies in its simplicity and adaptability, making it a staple in kitchens across generations and cultures.