Apple Crumble Bars with Oat Topping

Delicious and easy-to-make apple crumble bars with a buttery base and a crispy oat topping, perfect for any occasion.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 45

Total Time 1

Servings: 9 bars

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 230

For the base and topping

1 cup all-purpose flour Regular all-purpose flour is perfect.
1 cup old fashioned rolled oats Gives the best chewy crumble. Quick oats work in a pinch.
1/2 cup brown sugar Adds caramel flavor.
1 teaspoon cinnamon Non-negotiable for this recipe.
1/4 teaspoon salt A small pinch keeps it from tasting flat.
1/2 cup butter, melted Use real butter, not margarine.

For the apple filling

3-4 medium apples, mixed varieties Granny Smith for tartness and Honeycrisp for sweetness.
1 tablespoon lemon juice Wakes up the apples and keeps them bright.
1 tablespoon sugar Optional, depending on the tartness of apples.
1 tablespoon flour To thicken the juices from apples.

Preparation

Prep your pan. Use an 8x8 or 9x9 pan. Line it with parchment if you want easy lifting and clean slices.
Make the crust and crumble. Stir together flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Pour in melted butter and mix until crumbly.
Press the base. Scoop out about two-thirds of the mixture and press it firmly into the pan.
Make the apple filling. Peel and slice your apples thin, toss them with cinnamon, sugar, lemon juice, and a spoon of flour.
Layer it up. Spread the apples evenly over the crust and sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture on top.
Bake. Bake at 350°F until the top is golden for about 35-45 minutes.
Cool before slicing. Let them cool for at least 1 hour before cutting.

Pick apples that hold their shape, slice apples evenly, and don’t skip the pinch of salt. Let them cool fully for clean slices.