Delicious Autumn Apple Crisp Bars with apples and crumbly topping

Autumn Apple Crisp Bars

ByCasey Monroe

why make this recipe

Autumn Apple Crisp Bars are a delicious treat that brings the flavors of fall right to your kitchen. These bars are warm, sweet, and slightly crunchy, making them perfect for an afternoon snack or dessert. They’re easy to make, and you can enjoy them at home or share them with friends and family. Plus, with fresh apples and oats, they’re a tasty way to celebrate the season!

how to make Autumn Apple Crisp Bars

Ingredients:

  • 4 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (about 4 cups)
  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples with lemon juice, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon. Toss until evenly coated and set aside.
  3. In a separate bowl, mix together the rolled oats, flour, remaining 3/4 cup of brown sugar, salt, and the rest of the cinnamon. Pour in the melted butter and stir until crumbly. If using walnuts, fold them in.
  4. Press half of the oat mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust. Spread the apple mixture evenly over the crust, then sprinkle the remaining oat mixture on top.
  5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the apples are tender.
  6. Allow to cool for at least 15-20 minutes before cutting into squares or bars.

how to serve Autumn Apple Crisp Bars

Serve Autumn Apple Crisp Bars warm or at room temperature. They are delicious on their own, or you can add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top for an extra treat. These bars also go well with a warm cup of cider or tea.

how to store Autumn Apple Crisp Bars

To store your Autumn Apple Crisp Bars, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before freezing.

tips to make Autumn Apple Crisp Bars

  • Choose a mix of sweet and tart apples for the best flavor. Varieties like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp work well together.
  • Feel free to add more spices, like nutmeg or ginger, for a different flavor profile.
  • If you prefer a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
  • For extra sweetness, drizzle some caramel sauce on top before serving.

variation

You can customize these bars by adding other fruits like pears or berries. You could also replace walnuts with pecans or omit nuts altogether if you have nut allergies.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-packaged apple filling instead of fresh apples?
Yes, you can use pre-packaged apple filling, but be sure to adjust the amount of sugar based on how sweet the filling is.

2. How can I tell when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when the top is golden brown and the apples are tender. You can poke a toothpick in the center, and if it comes out clean, they’re ready!

3. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the bars a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Just warm them up before serving for the best taste.