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If you’re craving a treat that feels like a warm hug on a chilly afternoon, these Apple Cinnamon Crumble Bars are exactly what you need. They marry the comforting sweetness of cinnamon-dusted apples with a subtle savory undertone—all in a buttery bar that’s easy to slice and share. Make them for a casual weekend brunch, a midweek pick-me-up, or a family gathering to celebrate the flavors of the season.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
- 4 cups thinly sliced apples (about 3 large apples)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Pinch of black pepper (optional, for a subtle savory twist)
Instructions
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, and salt. Use a pastry blender or two forks to cut the cold butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture looks crumbly and begins to clump together. Scoop out one cup of this crumble mixture and set it aside for the topping.
Press the remaining crumble mixture firmly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish to form the bottom crust. In a separate bowl, toss the sliced apples with the granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cornstarch, and that optional pinch of black pepper if you’d like a gentle savory note. Spread the coated apples over the crust in an even layer.
Sprinkle the reserved crumble on top, covering the apples. Slide the dish into the oven and bake for about 30–35 minutes, or until the topping is lightly golden and the apples are tender. Let the bars cool for at least 15 minutes before cutting into squares—this helps them set and makes for cleaner servings.
These Sweet and Savory Apple Cinnamon Crumble Bars are the perfect balance of cozy comfort and a hint of spiciness, making them a crowd-pleaser for just about anyone. They’re relatively simple to prepare, and you can swap in whole wheat flour for added nutrition or sprinkle chopped pecans for extra crunch. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of hot tea or serve them warm with ice cream, these bars deliver a delicious slice of autumn any time you crave it.
