Apple Crisp Bars: A Perfect Dessert for Fall

Apple Crisp Bars are a delicious and convenient way to enjoy the classic flavors of apple crisp in a handheld form. With a buttery base, a tender apple filling, and a crunchy oat topping, these bars are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Whether served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoyed on their own, they’re a delightful treat that’s simple to prepare.

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The combination of a buttery crust, spiced apple filling, and crumbly oat topping creates a dessert that’s as comforting as it is tasty. Perfect for fall, but honestly, it’s a treat to enjoy year-round!

The Perfect Combination of Crunchy and Tender

The crisp base provides a buttery crunch that complements the tender apple filling. Topped with a sweet and crumbly oat layer, this dessert offers an ideal balance of textures and flavors.

Cooking Tips
Customizing the apples: Granny Smith apples work well for a tart contrast, but you can experiment with other varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for different flavor profiles.
Serving suggestions: Drizzle caramel sauce on top for an extra indulgence or serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect fall dessert.

Apple Crisp Bars Recipe

Ingredients

For the base:

• ¾ cup butter, cut into ½-inch pieces
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup packed light brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt

For the filling:

• 4 large apples, peeled and sliced
• ½ tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the topping:

• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup old-fashioned oats
• ¾ cup light brown sugar
• ¾ teaspoon baking powder
• ⅓ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Dash of salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 300°F.
2. Prepare the base:
   In a food processor, pulse together the butter, flour, brown sugar, and salt until the mixture forms small lumps. Spread the mixture evenly into a 13-inch baking pan and press it down tightly using the back of a spoon or spatula. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove from the oven. Increase the oven temperature to 350°F.
3. Prepare the filling:
   While the base is baking, combine the peeled and sliced apples with lemon juice in a medium bowl. Add the flour, sugar, and cinnamon, and toss to coat the apples evenly. Spread the apple mixture over the partially baked base.
4. Prepare the topping:
   In another bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and a dash of salt. Add the butter pieces and mix until crumbly. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the apple filling.
5. Bake the bars:
   Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the apple filling is bubbling around the edges.
6. Cool and serve:
   Let the bars cool before cutting them into squares. For an extra touch, drizzle caramel sauce on top or serve with a scoop of ice cream.

Enjoy these warm, spiced Apple Crisp Bars as a perfect dessert for any occasion!