Description
Experience the nostalgic essence of autumn with these heartwarming sour cream apple squares. Featuring a buttery, crumbly shortbread base topped with a spiced apple and sour cream custard, these bars offer the perfect balance of rustic comfort and sophisticated flavor. The addition of crunchy walnuts and warm cinnamon makes this an indulgent yet approachable treat, perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a grounding ritual during a crisp, cooling day.
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups packed light brown sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup chopped walnuts
1 cup full-fat sour cream
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 large egg
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, and baking soda.
Cut in the softened butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse, buttery crumbs.
Remove 1 cup of the crumb mixture and stir in the chopped walnuts to create the topping; set aside.
To the remaining large portion of the crumb mixture, add the sour cream, egg, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.
Mix thoroughly until a consistent batter forms, then fold in the chopped apples.
Spread the apple-batter mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan.
Sprinkle the reserved walnut-crumb mixture evenly over the top of the apples.
Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
Allow the squares to cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for up to five days to maintain freshness. Use firm, crisp apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for the best texture. For an extra touch, serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 45mg