Ingredients
Scale
For the Base and Crumble Topping
- 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- 1 large egg
For the Crumble Topping Addition
- ⅓ cup old-fashioned rolled oats (not quick or instant)
For the Apple Filling
- 3-4 Granny Smith apples, diced (about 4 cups)
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Base
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix until the ingredients form a crumbly texture.
- Add the egg and stir until the dough comes together. It should be slightly sticky but firm enough to press into the pan.
- Reserve one-third of the dough for the crumble topping. Press the remaining two-thirds into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 15 minutes or until the crust is lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool for about five minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling
- While the crust is baking, prepare the apple filling. Peel, core, and dice the apples into small pieces.
- In a mixing bowl, toss the diced apples with flour, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir until the apples are evenly coated.
Step 3: Prepare the Crumble Topping
- Take the reserved one-third portion of dough and mix in the rolled oats until well incorporated. This step creates a crumbly texture that will add a delicious contrast to the soft apple filling.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
- Spread the apple filling evenly over the cooled crust.
- Sprinkle the crumble topping over the apples, ensuring it covers the entire surface.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the topping turns deep golden brown.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them into squares. This helps them set and prevents them from falling apart when sliced.
Notes
- Choosing the Right Apples: Granny Smith apples are ideal because they hold their shape and add a slight tartness that balances the sweetness of the bars. If using sweeter apples, consider reducing the sugar slightly.
- Checking Doneness: The bars are done when the crumble topping is golden brown, and the apple filling is bubbling slightly at the edges. If unsure, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean without wet batter.
- Preventing a Soggy Crust: Cooling the base before adding the apple filling helps prevent excess moisture from soaking in, keeping the bottom layer crisp.
- Cutting Clean Bars: Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts to achieve neat, professional-looking squares. Refrigerating the bars for 30 minutes before slicing can also help.
- Making the Recipe Ahead: These bars can be made a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes