There is something truly magical about Apple Pie Bars with Streusel Topping Recipe — imagine the tender, buttery crust serving as the perfect base for a spiced, juicy apple filling all crowned with a crisp and crumbly streusel topping. This dessert combines the comforting flavors of classic apple pie with the convenience of a bar, making it an ideal treat to share with friends or enjoy as a cozy afternoon snack. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just diving into apple desserts, this recipe offers a delightful balance of texture and flavor that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Apple Pie Bars with Streusel Topping Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients. Each component plays an essential role, from the rich butter that forms a tender crust, to the aromatic spices that enhance the apple filling, and the streusel topping that adds that much-loved crunch. Let’s break down what you need to create these bars that taste like fall in every bite.
- Unsalted butter: Provides richness and a flaky texture to the crust and a buttery crunch to the streusel topping.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and balances the tartness of the apples.
- All-purpose flour: The backbone of the crust, binding the dough together and giving structure to the streusel.
- Salt: Enhances flavor and balances sweetness in the crust.
- Apples: Fresh, thinly sliced apples provide juiciness and natural sweetness, essential for that classic apple pie feeling.
- Lemon juice: Keeps the apples from browning and adds a subtle tang that brightens the filling.
- Light brown sugar: Adds a deep molasses flavor that complements the spices perfectly.
- Cinnamon and nutmeg: These warm spices infuse the filling and streusel with that iconic apple pie aroma and taste.
How to Make Apple Pie Bars with Streusel Topping Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, making sure to leave some overhang on the sides—this simple trick helps you lift the bars out easily once they’re baked and cooled.
Step 2: Make the Crust
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar with enthusiasm until the mixture is light and fluffy—this helps create a tender base. Then, gradually mix in the flour and salt, stirring until everything comes together into a soft dough. The secret to this crust is not overworking it; just mix until it’s uniform.
Step 3: Bake the Crust Partially
Press the dough evenly into your prepared baking pan, covering the bottom completely. Pop the pan into the oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the crust starts to turn a light golden color. This step ensures your crust will be nicely set and hold all that delicious apple filling without getting soggy.
Step 4: Prepare the Apple Filling
While the crust bakes, toss your thinly sliced apples with lemon juice to keep them fresh and vibrant. Next, add granulated sugar, packed light brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and a pinch of nutmeg. Stir gently but thoroughly to coat every slice with this flavorful mixture—this blend guarantees a juicy yet perfectly spiced filling that’s irresistible.
Step 5: Layer the Apple Filling
Once your crust is slightly golden, remove it from the oven and spread the apple mixture evenly over it. Making sure the apples cover the entire crust helps every bite deliver that beloved apple pie taste in bar form.
Step 6: Create the Streusel Topping
In a separate bowl, combine flour, light brown sugar, and cinnamon. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture clumps together into crumbly clusters—this streusel topping is the star that adds a delightful crunch and toasty sweetness when baked.
Step 7: Top and Bake
Sprinkle the streusel topping generously and evenly over the apple filling. Then, return the pan to the oven and bake for another 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the streusel is beautifully golden and the apples are tender, filling your kitchen with that comforting aroma you adore.
Step 8: Cool and Slice
Patience is key here! Let the bars cool completely in the pan for at least 30 minutes to allow the filling to set. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the entire slab out, then cut into squares for serving. Each slice offers a perfect ratio of crust, fruity filling, and crumbly topping.
How to Serve Apple Pie Bars with Streusel Topping Recipe
Garnishes
A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top instantly elevates these bars to dessert-worthy status. Sprinkle a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg over the garnish for an extra pinch of warmth and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
Serve these bars alongside a cup of spiced chai tea or robust coffee for a comforting treat. They also pair beautifully with a simple green salad to balance the sweetness if you’re enjoying them as part of a brunch spread.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, drizzle caramel sauce across each bar or serve with a side of salted caramel dip. You can even cut these bars into smaller bite-sized pieces to create a charming dessert platter at your next gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Apple Pie Bars with Streusel Topping Recipe keeps wonderfully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer freshness, the fridge is your friend, extending shelf life to about five days while maintaining that buttery texture.
Freezing
Want to save some for later? Wrap bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to two months without losing flavor or texture, making them perfect to prepare ahead for busy weeks or surprise guests.
Reheating
To enjoy these bars warm, reheat individual slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or pop them in a preheated oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-12 minutes. This revives the buttery crust and melts the apples slightly for that just-baked sensation.
FAQs
Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! A mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp adds complexity and a wonderful balance of flavors to your bars.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend, but be sure it contains xanthan gum or another binder to maintain the crust and streusel texture.
How do I prevent the streusel topping from becoming soggy?
Partially baking the crust before adding the filling and streusel helps prevent sogginess, plus ensuring the apples are well-coated with flour keeps excess moisture in check.
Can I double this recipe for a larger batch?
Definitely! Just use two 9×13-inch pans or a larger pan with increased baking time. Keep an eye on the bars to avoid over-baking.
What is the best way to slice these bars cleanly?
Use a sharp knife and let the bars cool completely before slicing. For extra clean cuts, warm the knife slightly by running it under hot water, then dry before slicing.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite like sinking your teeth into Apple Pie Bars with Streusel Topping Recipe that delivers all the nostalgic flavors of homemade apple pie in a convenient, shareable format. Whether it’s a holiday treat or a weekend indulgence, this recipe is destined to become a well-loved staple. So grab your apples, get baking, and fill your home with the irresistible aroma of this classic dessert made easy and delicious.
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Apple Pie Bars with Streusel Topping Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 20m
- Cook Time: 0h 45m
- Total Time: 1h 5m
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Apple Pie Bars with Streusel Topping offer a delicious twist on classic apple pie, combining a buttery crust, spiced apple filling, and a crumbly streusel topping. Perfect for dessert or a sweet snack, these bars are baked to golden perfection in a 9×13-inch pan and serve easy-to-cut squares that everyone will love.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Apple Filling:
- 4 large apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
For the Streusel Topping:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang on the sides for easy removal.
- Prepare the Crust: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add in the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing until the dough forms and comes together.
- Bake the Crust: Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Bake the crust for 15 minutes, or until it is lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.
- Make the Apple Filling: In a separate bowl, toss the peeled, cored, and thinly sliced apples with lemon juice to prevent browning. Add granulated sugar, light brown sugar, all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg, then mix well until the apples are fully coated with the mixture.
- Assemble the Filling: Spread the apple mixture evenly over the pre-baked crust in the baking pan.
- Prepare the Streusel Topping: In a bowl, combine all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Stir in the melted unsalted butter until the topping mixture becomes crumbly.
- Add the Streusel Topping: Sprinkle the crumbly streusel topping evenly over the apple filling layer.
- Bake the Bars: Return the baking pan to the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the streusel topping is golden brown and the apples have softened and are tender.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes to set. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars from the pan easily. Slice into squares and serve.
Notes
- For best results, use firm, tart apples such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the filling.
- Ensure the butter for the crust is softened but not melted to achieve the ideal texture.
- The lemon juice in the filling helps prevent the apples from browning and adds a subtle tang.
- You can store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Warming the bars slightly before serving enhances the flavor and texture.
