Apple Crumb Bars

Apple Crumb Bars are one of my favorite treats to bake when I’m craving something sweet, warm, and spiced with cinnamon. With a buttery crust, soft apple filling, and golden crumb topping, these bars are like a handheld version of apple pie—perfect for dessert, snacks, or even breakfast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how simple these bars are to put together, and they make the house smell amazing while they bake. The base is soft but sturdy, the filling is perfectly tender and sweet, and the crumb topping adds just the right amount of crunch. They slice beautifully, pack well, and taste just as good warm as they do chilled. Plus, I can serve them plain or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a real treat.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour

• Granulated sugar

• Brown sugar

• Baking powder

• Salt

• Unsalted butter, cold and cubed

• Egg

• Vanilla extract

• Apples (peeled and diced or thinly sliced)

• Ground cinnamon

• Lemon juice

• Cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

directions

1. I preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. In a large bowl, I combine the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt.

3. I cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or my fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

4. I beat the egg with the vanilla and mix it into the crumb mixture until it just starts to come together.

5. I press about two-thirds of the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a crust.

6. For the filling, I toss the diced apples with sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and a little cornstarch if I want a thicker filling.

7. I spread the apple mixture evenly over the crust.

8. I crumble the remaining dough over the top and gently press it down just a bit.

9. I bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the apples are bubbling.

10. I let the bars cool completely before slicing so they hold their shape.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12 bars. It takes 20 minutes to prep and 45 minutes to bake, so I have them ready in just over an hour.

Variations

Sometimes I mix in chopped nuts—like pecans or walnuts—for extra crunch. If I want to switch things up, I add a handful of dried cranberries or swap in pears for the apples. I’ve also made a spiced version with a pinch of nutmeg or allspice. For a gluten-free option, I use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

storage/reheating

I store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week. To reheat, I warm them slightly in the microwave or oven if I want them soft and gooey again. They also freeze really well—just wrap them tightly and thaw as needed.

FAQs

What kind of apples work best?

I like using firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp because they hold their shape and balance the sweetness.

Can I use apple pie filling instead of fresh apples?

Yes, I can. If I’m short on time, canned apple pie filling works great—just use about 2 cups and skip the cinnamon-sugar-lemon mix.

How do I get clean slices?

I let the bars cool completely and use a sharp knife. For extra clean cuts, I chill them first, then slice and bring them to room temperature for serving.

Can I double the recipe?

Definitely. I double the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan. Baking time might need a few extra minutes.

Are these bars freezer-friendly?

Yes, they freeze beautifully. I wrap them in layers with parchment paper in between, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

Apple Crumb Bars are a cozy, delicious treat I love baking year-round. They’re easy, satisfying, and packed with apple-cinnamon flavor. Whether I’m making them for a fall gathering or just to enjoy with coffee, these bars always hit the spot.