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As the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisp, few things evoke the essence of autumn quite like the warm, inviting aroma of baked apples mingling with cinnamon. Baked Apple Cinnamon Crumble Bars are the perfect way to celebrate the season, combining the comforting flavors of spiced apples with a buttery crumble topping. These bars not only make for a delightful dessert but also serve as a wonderful addition to brunches, picnics, or cozy gatherings with friends and family.

Baked Apple Cinnamon Crumble Bars

Fall in love with autumn flavors by making Baked Apple Cinnamon Crumble Bars! This comforting dessert combines spiced apples with a buttery, crumble topping, making it perfect for brunch, picnics, or cozy gatherings. Easy to adapt for various tastes, these bars can be enjoyed warm with ice cream or cold with coffee. Embrace seasonal ingredients like fresh apples and warming spices to create a treat that celebrates the essence of fall in every bite. Happy baking!

Ingredients
  

For the Apple Filling:

3 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and diced

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

1/4 cup packed brown sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

For the Crust and Topping:

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

3/4 cup old-fashioned rolled oats

1/2 cup packed brown sugar

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9x9 inch baking dish by greasing it with butter or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal of the baked bars.

    Prepare the Apple Filling: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the diced apples with fresh lemon juice, packed brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and all-purpose flour. Toss the mixture gently until the apples are well coated. Set aside for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

      Make the Crust and Topping: In a large bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, packed brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and add the vanilla extract. Stir the mixture until crumbly and well combined, resembling the texture of wet sand.

        Set the Base: Take approximately two-thirds of the crust mixture and firmly press it into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to create an even and compact crust layer.

          Add the Apple Filling: Evenly spread the prepared apple mixture over the pressed crust, ensuring that the apples are distributed uniformly.

            Crumble the Topping: Sprinkle the remaining crust mixture over the apple filling, making sure to cover it entirely while allowing some apple pieces to peek through for a rustic look.

              Bake the Bars: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the apples are bubbling.

                Cool and Slice: After baking, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 15-20 minutes. If you used parchment paper, carefully lift the bars out of the dish and transfer them to a cutting board. Once fully cooled, slice into squares or bars.

                  Serve and Enjoy: Serve these delightful Baked Apple Cinnamon Crumble Bars as a scrumptious snack, a dessert, or even a breakfast treat! For an extra touch of indulgence, consider drizzling with caramel sauce or pairing with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

                    Prep Time: 15 minutes

                      Total Time: 60 minutes

                        Servings: 12 bars