Apple & Oatmeal Crumble Bars

Introduction

Welcome to this delicious recipe for Apple & Oatmeal Crumble Bars! These bars are the perfect combination of sweet and tart, with a delightful crumbly texture. They make a great snack or dessert, and are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

For the crust and crumble topping:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned oats
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the apple filling:

• 4 cups peeled, cored, and thinly sliced apples
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Steps

Step 1: Preparing the Crust and Crumble Topping

To start, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, oats, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt. Mix well. Gradually pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture is crumbly. Set aside 1 and 1/2 cups of the mixture for the crumble topping.

Step 2: Making the Apple Filling

In another bowl, mix together the sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Make sure the apples are evenly coated with the mixture.

Step 3: Assembling the Bars

Take a 9×9-inch baking dish and press the remaining crust mixture into the bottom to form the crust. Spread the apple filling evenly over the crust. Sprinkle the reserved crumble topping over the apples.

Step 4: Baking and Serving

Bake the bars in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the apples are tender. Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into squares and serving. Enjoy!

Variations

There are endless possibilities for customizing these Apple & Oatmeal Crumble Bars. Here are a few ideas:

• Add a handful of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the crumble topping for extra crunch.
• Drizzle a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and milk over the cooled bars for added sweetness.
• Try using different fruits, such as peaches or berries, in place of the apples for a unique twist.

Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Apple & Oatmeal Crumble Bars turn out perfect every time:

• Make sure to slice the apples thinly and evenly for even cooking.
• Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting, as this will help them hold their shape.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

These Apple & Oatmeal Crumble Bars are a delightful treat that everyone will love. The combination of sweet apples, crumbly topping, and buttery crust is simply irresistible. Whether you enjoy them as a snack or dessert, they are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the deliciousness!

FAQs

Can I use instant oats instead of old-fashioned oats?

Yes, you can use instant oats if that’s what you have on hand. However, keep in mind that the texture of the bars may be slightly different.

Can I freeze these bars?

Absolutely! These bars freeze well. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container before freezing. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.

Can I use a different type of sugar?

Yes, you can use different types of sugar, such as granulated sugar or coconut sugar, in place of the light brown sugar. Just note that it may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the bars.