Introduction
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting your culinary journey, making a delicious dessert can bring joy and satisfaction. This Apple Crumble recipe features a buttery crust and a sweet, spiced apple filling. It’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. Here’s how to make it with a simple list of ingredients.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
– 1 cup (120 grams) all-purpose flour
– ¼ cup (50 grams) granulated sugar
– ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt
– 1 cup (226 grams) salted butter, chilled (2 sticks)
For the Filling:
– 5 medium Granny Smith apples (750 grams), peeled and chopped
– 3 tablespoons (38 grams) granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon (8 grams) all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon (14 grams) fresh lemon juice (from ½ lemon)
– ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 2 tablespoons (28 grams) unsalted butter (¼ stick)
Prep Time
Prep time for this recipe is approximately 20 minutes.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time is around 43-45 minutes, making the total time about 1 hour for the entire recipe. This will yield about 16 servings, perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Baking Pan
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease it with butter. Set the prepared pan aside for later use.
Make the Crust Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and kosher salt. Mix the ingredients together evenly.
Incorporate the Butter
Using a cheese grater, grate the chilled salted butter directly into the bowl with the flour mixture. Use your fingers to work the grated butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
Reserve and Press the Mixture
Reserve ¾ cup of the crumb mixture for the topping. Press the remaining mixture into an even layer on the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
Bake the Crust
Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until it turns golden brown. Once baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool.
Prepare the Apple Filling
While the crust is baking and cooling, make the filling. In a large bowl, combine the chopped Granny Smith apples, granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, fresh lemon juice, and ground cinnamon. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly.
Cook the Apples
In a saucepan set over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, add the apple mixture and cook for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are softened and the mixture has thickened.
Assemble the Bars
Spread the cooked apple filling evenly over the baked crust in the baking pan. Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture evenly over the top of the apple layer.
Bake the Apple Bars
Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 23-25 minutes, or until the top layer is golden brown.
Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the apple bars cool completely before cutting them into squares and serving.
Notes
Butter Temperature
Ensure that the butter is well-chilled before grating for optimal incorporation into the crust.
Apple Variety
Granny Smith apples provide a good balance of tartness and sweetness, but feel free to mix in other apple varieties for added flavor.
Storage
Store the cooled apple bars in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.
Cook techniques
Measuring Ingredients
Ensure that all ingredients are accurately measured for the best results in texture and flavor. Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements.
Chilling Butter
Use chilled butter when making pastry dough to prevent it from melting into the flour. This helps create a flaky texture in the crust.
Grating Butter
Grate the cold butter into the flour mixture for easier incorporation. This technique ensures even distribution and helps to create a tender crust.
Pressing the Crust
Evenly press the crust mixture into the bottom of the baking pan to create a solid base. This helps it hold together when baked.
Cooking Apples
Cook the chopped apples in melted butter to soften them and allow their natural sugars to release. This enhances the flavor and creates a syrupy filling.
Even Layering
Spread the apple filling in an even layer over the crust to ensure consistent baking and flavor distribution.
Golden Brown Baking
Bake until the top layer is golden brown to indicate that the crust and topping are properly cooked. This adds a nice color and texture.
FAQ
Can I use other types of apples for the filling?
Yes, you can use other apple varieties such as Honeycrisp or Fuji, but Granny Smith apples are preferred for their tartness.
What can I substitute for all-purpose flour?
You can use gluten-free all-purpose flour or almond flour, but the texture may vary slightly.
How do I know when the crust is done baking?
The crust is done when it turns a light golden brown color on top.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just store the bars in the refrigerator after they have cooled completely.
Is it possible to freeze these bars?
Yes, you can freeze the bars. Make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container.
How should I store the bars after baking?
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for a week.
Conclusion
This delightful apple crumble bars recipe combines a flaky crust with a sweet and tangy apple filling, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion. The contrast of textures and flavors will surely satisfy your cravings and leave everyone asking for seconds.
Apple and Pear Crumble
Replace some of the Granny Smith apples with ripe pears for a sweet twist on the classic flavor profile.
Berry and Apple Bars
Add a mix of berries such as blueberries or raspberries to the apple filling for a burst of flavor and color.
Spiced Pumpkin Bars
Incorporate pumpkin puree into the filling along with spices like nutmeg and allspice for a festive autumn treat.
Cinnamon Roll Apple Bars
Swirl cinnamon roll dough into the filling for a gooey, cinnamon-infused apple dessert.
Nutty Crunch Topping
Mix chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans into the reserved crust mixture for added crunch and flavor on top.
Chocolate Drizzled Bars
Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled bars for an indulgent and decadent finish.
