Apple Pie Bars with Oat Streusel Recipe
Apple Pie Bars with Oat Streusel are an irresistible sweet treat that combines the classic flavors of apple pie in a convenient bar form. Bursting with juicy, baked apples and topped with a buttery oat streusel, this recipe is both comforting and satisfying. The aroma of cinnamon and baked apples wafts through your kitchen, inviting everyone to indulge in a slice. This step-by-step recipe not only makes it easy to recreate this beloved dessert but also provides a perfect opportunity to gather with loved ones for a warm slice of nostalgia.
The blend of tart Granny Smith and sweet Pink Lady apples creates a perfectly balanced flavor, and the oat streusel adds a delightful crunch. Whether for a family gathering, potluck, or simply as a treat for yourself, these Apple Pie Bars are sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons to fall in love with this delicious Apple Pie Bars recipe. First off, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. Even baking novices can master this dessert with its straightforward directions. The combination of minimal ingredients ensures you won’t be overwhelmed, making this recipe a perfect choice for a spontaneous baking session. Additionally, its family-friendly nature means that everyone, from kids to adults, will enjoy a piece (or two) of this delightful treat.
With its quick prep time and the ability to serve a crowd, it’s ideal for gatherings. You can whip them up in no time and wow your guests. The best part? You can prepare these bars ahead of time, meaning your dessert is ready when you are. Trust us; once you take the first bite, you will understand why Apple Pie Bars with Oat Streusel are a must-have recipe in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients for Apple Pie Bars with Oat Streusel
- 1 1/4 cup softened unsalted butter: For a rich, creamy crust.
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar: Sweetness that balances the tartness of the apples.
- 2/3 cup packed brown sugar: Adds depth and a hint of caramel flavor.
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Elevates the flavor profile.
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base for both crust and streusel.
- 1 tsp salt: To enhance flavor.
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon: A warm, comforting spice that complements the apples.
- 6-8 apples (about 3 lbs): A mix of Granny Smith and Pink Lady, cored, peeled, and thinly sliced (~1/4 inch thick) for perfect texture.
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar (for filling): To sweeten the apple filling.
- 2 tsp cinnamon (for filling): For extra warmth and flavor.
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional): Adds a hint of spice.
- Juice of 1 lemon (~2 Tbsp): Brightens the apple flavors and prevents browning.
- 2 Tbsp cornstarch: Helps thicken the apple filling.
- 1/2 cup water, as needed: To assist in cooking the apples.
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats (not quick cook): Provides texture for the streusel.
- 1 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark): Adds moisture and richness to the streusel topping.
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour: Another layer for the streusel mixture.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness of the streusel.
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon: Complements the oats in the topping.
- 1/2 cup chilled unsalted butter, cut into cubes: For a crumbly streusel texture.
Step-by-Step Directions
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Oat Streusel Preparation: In a medium bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, brown sugar, flour, salt, and cinnamon. Cut in the chilled cubed butter until the mixture starts to clump together. Once mixed, refrigerate while you prepare the crust.
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Making the Crust: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and cinnamon. In another bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until creamy. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until well combined. Press this dough into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Refrigerate for 20 minutes to firm up.
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Baking the Crust: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the crust for 18 minutes or until it is lightly golden. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool briefly.
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Preparing the Apple Filling: In a large bowl, toss the thinly sliced apples with granulated sugar, cinnamon, and optional nutmeg to combine. In a separate small bowl, mix lemon juice and cornstarch. Pour this mixture over the apples, and then cook in a saucepan over medium heat for about 5-8 minutes, stirring frequently, until the apples have softened slightly. Add water as needed to prevent sticking.
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Assembling the Bars: Spread the prepared apple filling evenly over the cooled crust. Sprinkle the oat streusel topping generously over the apples, ensuring even coverage.
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Final Bake: Lower the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake the assembled bars for 30-35 minutes until the streusel is golden brown and the apples are bubbling. Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing them into squares.
Tips & Tricks
For the best results, use Granny Smith apples for their tartness balanced with sweet Pink Lady apples. This combination creates a depth of flavor that keeps each bite exciting. Consider using a mix of spices like ginger or allspice for a unique flavor twist. If you like a little more crunch, toast your rolled oats for a few minutes before adding them to the streusel mix.
If time is short, you can substitute store-bought pie crust for the homemade version, but we highly recommend preparing the crust from scratch for that unmistakable homemade touch. Don’t hesitate to experiment with adding nuts to the streusel for added flavor and crunch!
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Apple Pie Bars are delicious on their own, but serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream takes the experience to a whole new level. You can also pair them with whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch. For a festive touch, a side of spiced cider or a dollop of fresh whipped cream enhances the autumnal vibes.
These bars also make for an excellent breakfast treat or afternoon snack. Pack them for lunch or bring them to your next gathering as a delightful dessert option that everyone will enjoy.
Nutritional Information
While the exact breakdown can vary based on specific ingredients used, a typical Apple Pie Bar contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the serving size. They provide a delightful combination of carbohydrates from apples and crust, along with fats from the butter and oats. Enjoy them as an occasional indulgence; after all, who can resist a comforting dessert like this?
Storing Tips & Variations for Apple Pie Bars with Oat Streusel
These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerated for a week if you prefer them chilled. For longer storage, Apple Pie Bars freeze well. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be enjoyed straight from the freezer for a refreshing treat, or thawed at room temperature before serving.
For a healthier twist, consider substituting the granulated sugar with honey or maple syrup, and using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. You can also try adding other fruits mixed with apples, like cranberries or pears, for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion for Apple Pie Bars with Oat Streusel
There’s nothing quite like the warm, comforting flavors of Apple Pie Bars with Oat Streusel, and once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a cherished favorite. The combination of tender apples nestled beneath a crisp, buttery topping beckons to be shared. So grab the ingredients and start your baking adventure today! You won’t regret it—each delectable bite is sure to bring back memories and create new ones around your table.
FAQs
1. How do you know when the Apple Pie Bars are done baking?
You’ll know they’re done when the streusel topping is golden brown and the apples are bubbly, which usually takes about 30-35 minutes at 350°F.
2. Can I use a different type of apple?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Pink Lady are great options, you can also use Fuji, Honeycrisp, or any apple variety you prefer for their sweetness or tartness.
3. Is it necessary to refrigerate the crust before baking?
Yes, refrigerating the crust helps it maintain its shape and results in a flakier texture when baked.
4. Can I make these Apple Pie Bars ahead of time?
Yes, these bars can be made a day ahead. Just store them in the refrigerator, and they can even be served chilled or reheated as desired.
5. How long can I store the pie bars?
These bars will last for about three days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator. If freezing, they can last for up to three months.
Apple Pie Bars with Oat Streusel
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 1/4 cup softened unsalted butter For a rich, creamy crust.
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar Sweetness that balances the tartness of the apples.
- 2/3 cup packed brown sugar Adds depth and a hint of caramel flavor.
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract Elevates the flavor profile.
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour The base for both crust and streusel.
- 1 tsp salt To enhance flavor.
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon A warm, comforting spice that complements the apples.
For the Apple Filling
- 6-8 pieces apples (about 3 lbs) A mix of Granny Smith and Pink Lady, cored, peeled, and thinly sliced (~1/4 inch thick) for perfect texture.
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar To sweeten the apple filling.
- 2 tsp cinnamon For extra warmth and flavor.
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional) Adds a hint of spice.
- Juice of 1 lemon (~2 Tbsp) lemon juice Brightens the apple flavors and prevents browning.
- 2 Tbsp cornstarch Helps thicken the apple filling.
- 1/2 cup water As needed to assist in cooking the apples.
For the Oat Streusel Topping
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats (not quick cook) Provides texture for the streusel.
- 1 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark) Adds moisture and richness to the streusel topping.
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour Another layer for the streusel mixture.
- 1/4 tsp salt Balances the sweetness of the streusel.
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon Complements the oats in the topping.
- 1/2 cup chilled unsalted butter, cut into cubes For a crumbly streusel texture.
Instructions
Oat Streusel Preparation
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, brown sugar, flour, salt, and cinnamon. Cut in the chilled cubed butter until the mixture starts to clump together. Once mixed, refrigerate while you prepare the crust.
Making the Crust
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and cinnamon. In another bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until creamy. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until well combined. Press this dough into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Refrigerate for 20 minutes to firm up.
Baking the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the crust for 18 minutes or until it is lightly golden. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool briefly.
Preparing the Apple Filling
- In a large bowl, toss the thinly sliced apples with granulated sugar, cinnamon, and optional nutmeg to combine. In a separate small bowl, mix lemon juice and cornstarch. Pour this mixture over the apples, and then cook in a saucepan over medium heat for about 5-8 minutes, stirring frequently, until the apples have softened slightly. Add water as needed to prevent sticking.
Assembling the Bars
- Spread the prepared apple filling evenly over the cooled crust. Sprinkle the oat streusel topping generously over the apples, ensuring even coverage.
Final Bake
- Lower the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake the assembled bars for 30-35 minutes until the streusel is golden brown and the apples are bubbling. Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing them into squares.