Craving a sweet treat that fits your healthy lifestyle? These Healthy Apple Crumble Bars offer a delightful solution. You will love making these naturally sweetened, fruit-filled bars that are perfect for a wholesome snack or a light dessert.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Oats: Use old-fashioned rolled oats for the best texture. Quick oats can work in a pinch but may result in a softer crumble.
- Apples: Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are ideal for baking. Any firm apple will do.
- Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener. You can use honey as an alternative.
- Whole Wheat Flour: Adds a nutty flavor and fiber. All-purpose flour can be substituted if preferred.
Ingredients
For the Crumble Topping & Crust:
- 1 ½ cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Apple Filling:
- 3 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon whole wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cook time: 35-40 minutes
- Total time: 55-60 minutes
- Servings: 12 bars
- Calories per serving: Approximately 210
- Tools needed: 8×8 inch baking pan, mixing bowls
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Pan and Oven
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. This makes it easy to lift the bars out later.
2. Make the Crumble Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, brown sugar, melted butter, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir everything together until well combined and crumbly. This mixture will form both your crust and topping.
3. Form the Crust
Press about two-thirds of the crumble mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan. Use the back of a spoon or your hands to create a firm, even layer. Set the remaining crumble aside for the topping.
4. Prepare the Apple Filling
In another bowl, combine the diced apples, maple syrup, whole wheat flour, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Toss gently until the apples are evenly coated. This creates the delicious center for your healthy apple dessert.
5. Assemble the Bars
Pour the apple filling over the crust in the baking pan, spreading it evenly. Then, sprinkle the reserved one-third of the crumble mixture over the apple layer. This creates that classic crumble texture on top.
6. Bake Your Crumble Bars
Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender. A knife inserted into an apple piece should go in easily. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing.
Variation Ideas
- Nutty Crumble: Add ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts to the crumble mixture for extra crunch.
- Spiced Up: Incorporate a pinch of nutmeg or allspice into the apple filling for a deeper flavor.
- Berry Burst: Mix in ½ cup of fresh or frozen berries (like blueberries or raspberries) with the apples for a colorful twist.
- Extra Apple Flavor: Use apple pie spice instead of just cinnamon in the filling for a more complex profile, perfect for healthy apple dessert ideas.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover Healthy Apple Crumble Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 5 days. You can gently reheat individual bars in the microwave for 15-20 seconds if you prefer them warm.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use a different type of flour?
A: Yes, you can use all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat flour for both the crust and filling.
Q: Do I have to peel the apples?
A: Peeling is optional, but it often results in a smoother texture in the filling. Leaving the skin on adds extra fiber.
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! These bars store well and are often even better the next day as the flavors meld.
Q: How do I know when the apples are cooked through?
A: The apples should be soft and tender when pierced with a fork or knife.
Q: Can I freeze these apple crumble bars?
A: Yes, you can freeze cooled bars in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.
Q: Are these bars truly healthy?
A: These bars use whole grains, natural sweeteners, and fruit, making them a healthier alternative to many traditional desserts. They are a great option when exploring healthy apple dessert ideas.
