The Best Bake Apple Bar Recipe
Pairing Recommendations Variations Nutritional Benefits Nutritional Breakdown History Fun Facts
Introducing the ultimate comfort dessert: Apple Bars! Bursting with the flavors of sweet and tart apples nestled between layers of buttery oats, these bars are a delightful fusion of crisp autumn goodness and irresistible indulgence. Whether you’re craving a cozy treat to enjoy with a cup of tea or looking to impress guests at your next gathering, this tried and true recipe promises to satisfy every palate. With a golden crust, a luscious apple filling, and a crumbly topping, each bite is a symphony of textures and tastes that will keep you coming back for more. Get ready to elevate your dessert game with these delectable apple bars that are guaranteed to steal the show!
Apple Bars
Ingredients
Crust and Topping
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 180g
- 1 1/2 cups 150g old-fashioned rolled oats 150g
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed 200g
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 3g
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 3g
- 1/2 teaspoon salt 3g
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted 170g
Apple Pie Filling
- 4 cups apples, peeled, cored, and chopped about 500g
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar 50g
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour 10g
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 2g
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1g
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice 15g
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and set aside.
Crust and Topping
- Get a mixing bowl, the flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt for the crust and topping.
- Add ingredients to the bowl.
- Stir until well combined.
- Pour the melted butter over the dry ingredients.
- Mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Set aside about 1 1/2 cups of this mixture for the topping.
- Press the remaining mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form the crust.
Apple Pie Filling
- Gather another bowl, the chopped apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice.
- Add ingredients into the bowl.
- Toss together the chopped apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice until the apples are evenly coated.
- Gather the prepared baking pan with the crust.
- Spread the apple mixture evenly over the crust in the baking pan.
- Gather the remaining reserved crumb mixture.
- Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture evenly over the apples as the topping.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the apples are tender.
- Allow the apple bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.
- Serve and enjoy the deliciousness!
- These apple bars are best enjoyed fresh but can also be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days. They also freeze well, so you can make a batch ahead of time for future cravings. Enjoy!
Notes
Tips and Tricks
- Choose the Right Apples: Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for the best flavor. Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji apples work well in this recipe. They hold their shape when baked and offer a balanced flavor profile.
- Uniform Apple Slices: Aim for evenly sized apples slices, 1/4 to 1/2 inch slices, to ensure even cooking. A mandoline slicer or a sharp knife can help achieve consistent thickness.
- Prevent Soggy Bottoms: To prevent the crust from becoming soggy, you can pre-bake it for a few minutes before adding the apple filling. This helps create a barrier between the moist apples and the crust.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste your apples before adding sugar to the filling. Depending on their natural sweetness, you may need to adjust the amount of sugar added. Similarly, adjust the amount of cinnamon and nutmeg according to your preference.
- Add Texture: Consider adding chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the oat mixture for extra crunch and flavor.
- Make Ahead: These apple bars can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container. They actually taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Plus, they’re great for meal prep or entertaining.
- Serve Warm: For an extra indulgent treat, serve the apple bars warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The contrast between the warm bars and cold ice cream is irresistible!
- Freeze for Later: If you have leftovers or want to make a big batch, these apple bars freeze well. Simply wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw them at room temperature or reheat in the oven before serving.
Storing Recommendations
To ensure your apple bars stay fresh and delicious for as long as possible, here are some storing recommendations:- Room Temperature: If you plan to consume the apple bars within a day or two, you can store them at room temperature in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap. They’ll remain moist and flavorful at room temperature, making them easy to grab for a quick snack or dessert.
- Refrigeration: If you need to store the apple bars for a longer period, or if your kitchen tends to be warm, you can refrigerate them. Place the bars in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before storing them in the refrigerator. They should last for up to five days in the fridge.
- Freezing: If you want to keep the apple bars for an extended period, freezing is your best option. Wrap the individual bars tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Then, place them in a freezer-safe container or sealable freezer bags. Properly stored, the apple bars can last in the freezer for up to three months.
- Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen apple bars, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. You can also reheat them in the oven at a low temperature (around 250°F or 120°C) until warmed through. This will help restore their texture and flavor.
- Separation: To prevent the bars from sticking together during storage, you can place parchment paper or wax paper between layers if stacking them in a container.
Creation Time
The total time required to make these apple bars can vary depending on factors such as your familiarity with the recipe, the efficiency of your kitchen setup, and any additional steps you choose to incorporate. However, as a general guideline, here’s an estimated breakdown of the time involved:- Preparation: Approximately 15-20 minutes to gather ingredients, preheat the oven, and prepare the baking pan.
- Crust and Topping: Around 10-15 minutes to mix the crust and topping ingredients and press the crust into the pan.
- Apple Filling: About 10-15 minutes to peel, core, chop, and prepare the apples filling.
- Assembling: 5-10 minutes to spread the apple filling over the crust and sprinkle the topping.
- Baking: 35-40 minutes to bake the bars in the preheated oven until golden brown and the apples are tender.
- Cooling: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting, which may take an additional 30-60 minutes.
Pairing Recommendations and Variations
Pairing Recommendations
Pairing these delectable apple bars with complementary flavors and beverages can elevate the overall experience. Here are some pairing recommendations to consider:
- Hot Beverages: Serve the apple bars alongside a steaming cup of freshly brewed coffee, hot cocoa, or spiced chai tea. The warmth of these beverages complements the comforting flavors of the bars and creates a cozy indulgence.
- Cold Beverages: For a refreshing contrast, pair the apple bars with cold beverages like apple cider, iced tea, or a glass of milk. The crispness of the cider or the creamy texture of milk provides a delightful balance to the sweetness of the bars.
- Ice Cream: Take your apple bars to the next level by serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or cinnamon ice cream. The cool creaminess of the ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm bars and adds a luxurious touch to each bite.
- Whipped Cream: Alternatively, top the apple bars with a dollop of freshly whipped cream infused with a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg. The lightness of the whipped cream complements the richness of the bars and enhances their flavor profile.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the apple bars for an indulgent finishing touch. The sweet and buttery caramel adds depth of flavor and creates a decadent dessert that’s sure to impress.
- Cheese: For a savory twist, pair the apple bars with a slice of sharp cheddar or aged Gouda cheese. The tanginess of the cheese cuts through the sweetness of the bars and creates a delicious contrast of flavors.
- Nuts: Sprinkle chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, over the apple bars before serving for added texture and nutty flavor. The crunchiness of the nuts complements the softness of the bars and enhances their overall appeal.
Whether you’re serving these apple bars for dessert, as a snack, or at a social gathering, pairing them with the right accompaniments can enhance the dining experience and leave your guests craving more. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite pairing!
Variations
Variations on apple bars offer exciting twists on the classic recipe, allowing you to customize the flavors to your preferences or experiment with new ingredients. Here are some delightful variations to consider:
- Apple Crisp Bars: Add a crumbly topping made with a mixture of flour, oats, brown sugar, and butter for a classic apple crisp-inspired twist. Simply sprinkle the topping over the apple filling before baking for an extra layer of texture and flavor.
- Caramel Apple Bars: Drizzle caramel sauce over the apple filling before adding the topping for a decadent caramel apple flavor. You can also mix chopped caramel candies into the apple filling for gooey pockets of caramel throughout the bars.
- Apple Pie Bars: Layer thinly sliced apples over the crust and sprinkle them with a mixture of sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Top with a lattice crust made from strips of pie dough for a stunning apple pie-inspired presentation.
- Nutty Apple Bars: Stir chopped nuts, such as pecans, walnuts, or almonds, into the oat mixture for added crunch and nutty flavor. You can also sprinkle chopped nuts over the top of the bars before baking for extra texture.
- Spiced Apple Bars: Enhance the flavor of the apple filling with warming spices like ginger, cloves, and allspice in addition to cinnamon and nutmeg. These spices add depth and complexity to the bars, making them even more irresistible.
- Apple Cranberry Bars: Mix fresh or dried cranberries into the apple filling for a tart contrast to the sweet apples. The cranberries add a burst of color and flavor that complements the apples beautifully.
- Apple Streusel Bars: Replace the oat topping with a streusel made from flour, brown sugar, butter, and cinnamon. Crumble the streusel over the apple filling for a buttery, crumbly topping that adds richness to the bars.
- Gluten-Free Apple Bars: Use gluten-free flour and certified gluten-free oats to make these bars suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or allergies. You can also substitute almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend for the crust and topping.
These variations offer endless possibilities for creating unique and delicious apple bars that cater to your taste preferences and dietary needs. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavor combinations to discover your favorite version of this beloved dessert!
Nutritional Information
Nutritional Benefits
While apple bars are undeniably a delicious treat, they also offer several nutritional benefits, thanks to the wholesome ingredients used in this recipe:
- Apples: Apples are rich in dietary fiber, particularly pectin, which aids digestion and promotes gut health. They’re also a good source of vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports the immune system and skin health.
- Oats: Rolled oats are a nutritious whole grain packed with fiber, which helps regulate blood sugar levels, improve digestion, and promote satiety. They also contain vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, such as manganese and phosphorus.
- Brown Sugar: While brown sugar is still a form of sugar and should be consumed in moderation, it contains molasses, which adds a small amount of minerals like calcium, potassium, and iron.
- Butter: While butter should be enjoyed in moderation due to its high saturated fat content, it provides essential fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K. It also adds richness and flavor to the recipe.
- Cinnamon: Cinnamon is not only a delicious spice but also offers potential health benefits. It may help lower blood sugar levels, reduce inflammation, and provide antioxidant protection.
- Nutmeg: Nutmeg adds warmth and depth of flavor to the apple filling. It also contains compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Overall, while these apple bars are certainly a treat, they also offer some nutritional value from the wholesome ingredients they contain. Enjoying them in moderation as part of a balanced diet can contribute to overall health and well-being.
Nutritional Breakdown
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for a serving of these apple bars (based on a yield of 12 servings):
- Calories: Around 300 calories per serving
- Total Fat: Approximately 14g
- Saturated Fat: About 8g
- Cholesterol: Roughly 30mg
- Sodium: Around 180mg
- Total Carbohydrates: Approximately 43g
- Dietary Fiber: Roughly 3g
- Sugars: About 25g
- Protein: Approximately 3g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on factors such as the specific ingredients used and portion sizes. Additionally, it’s essential to consider any modifications or substitutions made to the recipe when calculating nutritional information.
History and Fun Facts
History
The history of apple bars is intertwined with the rich culinary traditions surrounding apples, which have been cultivated and enjoyed by various cultures for centuries. While the specific origins of apple bars as a distinct dessert are difficult to pinpoint, we can trace their evolution through the history of apple-based desserts and pastries.
Apples have been a staple fruit in many cuisines around the world for thousands of years. They are believed to have originated in Central Asia and have been cultivated since ancient times. Early civilizations, including the ancient Greeks and Romans, valued apples for their versatility in cooking and their long shelf life, making them an essential part of their diets.
As European settlers immigrated to North America, they brought with them their culinary traditions, including recipes for apple-based desserts such as pies, tarts, and crisps. These desserts became popular staples in American households, especially during the fall when apples were in season.
The concept of apple bars likely emerged as a variation of traditional apple desserts, offering a convenient and portable way to enjoy the flavors of apple pie or crisp. By layering a buttery crust with a spiced apple filling and a crumbly topping, apple bars provided a handheld treat that could be enjoyed on the go or served as a casual dessert for gatherings and potlucks.
Over time, apple bars have evolved to incorporate various ingredients, flavors, and textures, reflecting the diverse tastes and preferences of modern consumers. From classic recipes featuring cinnamon-spiced apples to creative variations with caramel, nuts, and other add-ins, apple bars continue to be a beloved dessert enjoyed by people of all ages.
Today, apple bars remain a popular choice for fall baking, offering a delicious way to celebrate the abundance of apples during harvest season. Whether enjoyed as a comforting snack with a cup of tea or served as a crowd-pleasing dessert at gatherings, apple bars carry on the tradition of showcasing the timeless appeal of apples in a convenient and irresistible form.
Fun Facts
- Versatile Treat: Apple bars are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed for various occasions, including picnics, potlucks, bake sales, and holiday gatherings. They’re also a popular choice for lunchbox treats and afternoon snacks.
- Family Favorite: Many families have their own cherished recipes for apple bars, passed down through generations. These recipes often evoke memories of cozy gatherings, baking sessions with loved ones, and autumn traditions.
- Seasonal Delight: While apple bars can be enjoyed year-round, they’re especially popular during the fall when apples are in peak season. Baking apple bars is a festive way to celebrate the flavors and colors of autumn.
- Adaptable Recipe: The basic recipe for apple bars can be easily customized to suit individual tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you prefer a classic version with cinnamon and nutmeg or a modern twist with caramel and nuts, there’s a variation of apple bars for everyone.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: Apple bars are a convenient make-ahead dessert. You can bake a batch in advance and store them in the freezer for future enjoyment. Simply thaw them at room temperature or reheat them in the oven for a warm and comforting treat.
- Nutritional Benefits: While apple bars are undeniably delicious, they also offer some nutritional benefits, especially when made with wholesome ingredients like oats, apples, and nuts. They provide dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them a slightly healthier dessert option compared to some other sweets.
- Global Appeal: While apple bars have roots in American cuisine, similar desserts featuring apples and oats can be found in culinary traditions around the world. From British apple crumble to Swedish apple cake, apples are celebrated in diverse ways across cultures.
- Creative Variations: Bakers love experimenting with different flavor combinations and add-ins to create unique versions of apple bars. From adding dried fruits and spices to incorporating chocolate chips or coconut, the possibilities for creative twists on this classic dessert are endless.
These fun facts highlight the enduring popularity and versatility of apple bars as a beloved dessert enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you prefer a classic recipe or a modern variation, apple bars are sure to delight your taste buds and warm your heart with their comforting flavors.
“We are born believing. A man bears beliefs as a tree bears apples.”
– Ralph Waldo Emerson
