So you want apple pie, but you do not want to roll dough or wait forever? Same. That is exactly why Apple Pie Crumble Bars exist. They give you all the cozy apple pie flavor in easy bar form. No fancy tools. No long prep time. Just simple steps and big comfort.
These bars have a soft crust, a warm apple filling, and a sweet crumble top that feels like fall in every bite. They smell amazing while baking and taste even better when cooled. I make these when I want a dessert that feels homemade but still easy. If you love apple desserts and quick baking wins, Apple Pie Crumble Bars are about to become your new favorite treat.
Why This Recipe Is Awesome
Let’s be real. This recipe is a win.
First, it is easy. No pie crust stress.
Second, it is fast. Simple steps and quick baking.
Third, it is comfort food. Warm apples and sweet crumble never fail.
These Apple Pie Crumble Bars are great for parties, potlucks, or late-night snacks. They also store well, which means leftovers are never wasted. Even beginner bakers can make this without stress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients. Big flavor.
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All-purpose flour – your baking best friend
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Sugar – white or brown works
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Butter – cold and cubed
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Baking powder – helps the crust rise
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Salt – balances sweetness
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Apples – peeled and sliced
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Cinnamon – warm and cozy
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Lemon juice – keeps apples bright
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Cornstarch – thickens filling
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Vanilla extract – optional but nice
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set oven to 350°F. Line a baking pan with parchment paper.
Step 2: Make the Crust
Mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in butter until crumbly.
Step 3: Press the Base
Press half of the mixture into the pan to form the crust.
Step 4: Prepare the Apples
Mix apples, cinnamon, lemon juice, cornstarch, and vanilla in a bowl.
Step 5: Add Filling
Spread apple mixture over the crust evenly.
Step 6: Add Crumble
Sprinkle the rest of the crumb mixture on top.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 35–40 minutes until golden.
Step 8: Cool and Slice
Let cool completely. Slice into bars.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Not cooling before slicing
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Using too much filling
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Skipping parchment paper
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Overbaking
These can ruin your bars fast.
Alternatives & Substitutions
Use pears instead of apples.
Use coconut sugar instead of white sugar.
Add chopped nuts for crunch.
IMO, walnuts taste great here.
Helpful Tips
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Slice apples thin for even baking
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Press crust firmly
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Let bars cool fully before cutting
Expert Tips for the Best Results
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Use Granny Smith apples for balance
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Chill butter before mixing
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Store bars in a sealed container
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
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Vanilla ice cream
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Whipped cream
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Hot coffee or tea
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the microwave for 15 seconds.
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- 9×13 baking pan
- Whisk
- Spatula
Ingredients
- 2 cups flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup cold butter
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 4 apples peeled and sliced
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp vanilla
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Mix dry ingredients.
- Cut in butter.
- Press half into pan.
- Mix apples and spices.
- Add filling.
- Top with crumble.
- Bake 35–40 minutes.
- Cool and slice.
Notes
Nutritional Facts (Approx)
Calories: 280Protein: 3g
Fat: 14g
Carbs: 36g
FAQ on Apple Pie Crumble Bars
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes. They store well.
Can I freeze them?
Yes. Wrap well.
Can I use other fruit?
Yes. Pears and peaches work.
Are these very sweet?
They are balanced.
Do I have to peel apples?
Peeling gives better texture.
Can kids help make these?
Yes. They are simple.
Final Thoughts
These Apple Pie Crumble Bars are easy, cozy, and full of flavor. They look fancy but are simple to make. Perfect for any season and any reason.
Go bake something wonderful. You earned it.