Description
These comforting Apple Bars with Cinnamon Oat Streusel offer a perfect harmony of textures, featuring a buttery, crumbly oat base and a tender, spiced apple filling. Topped with a golden, crisp streusel, this classic American treat captures the essence of autumn in every bite. Simple to prepare and deeply satisfying, these bars are the perfect make-ahead dessert for family gatherings, lunchboxes, or a cozy afternoon treat that feels like a warm embrace from the oven.
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup old-fashioned oats
3/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
4 cups apples, peeled and thinly sliced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, oats, brown sugar, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and salt.
Cut the cold butter into the dry mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingers until it resembles coarse crumbs.
Press two-thirds of the mixture firmly into the prepared baking pan to form a base.
In a separate bowl, toss the sliced apples with the remaining granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice.
Arrange the apple slices evenly over the base.
Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over the top of the apples.
Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.
Notes
Ensure the butter is very cold when cutting into the flour to achieve the perfect crumbly texture. You can use Granny Smith apples for a tart contrast or Honeycrisp for a sweeter profile. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg