Spiced Apple Crumble Bars 🍎 – Easy Bite-Size Thanksgiving Treat for Crowds!
These spiced apple crumble bars are the perfect bite-sized dessert for Thanksgiving gatherings! A buttery shortbread base, cinnamon-spiced apple filling, and crisp oat topping make these bars a crowd-pleasing holiday treat.
These spiced apple crumble bars are a modern twist on a classic Thanksgiving dessert. Imagine the comforting flavors of traditional apple crumble, reimagined into convenient, shareable squares that are easy to serve and even easier to eat. Whether you're hosting a cozy family dinner or a large holiday party, these bars bring the essence of autumn in every bite. The buttery shortbread crust provides a perfect base for the spiced apple filling, while the crisp oat topping adds a satisfying crunch. With no complicated techniques required, these bars are a stress-free way to impress your guests with a dessert that feels homemade and heartfelt.
Perfect for Thanksgiving tables, potlucks, or even as on-the-go snacks, these bars combine the best of classic apple pie and crumble in a portable format. The cinnamon and nutmeg-spiced filling warms the palate, while the golden-brown topping adds a delightful textural contrast. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe ensures success with simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
What makes these bars especially special is their versatility. You can serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent finish, or at room temperature as a elegant dessert table centerpiece. The bite-sized format means no one has to share a slice with the whole family - each guest can enjoy their own perfect portion. Plus, the recipe scales easily for any size gathering, making it a reliable addition to your holiday baking repertoire.
From the first crumbly bite of the shortbread base to the last cinnamon-kissed apple morsel, these bars capture the essence of autumn in dessert form. The combination of warm spices, tart apple sweetness, and crunchy topping creates a flavor profile that's both familiar and exciting. Best of all, the recipe requires no special equipment - just a 9x13-inch baking pan and a few pantry staples.
Whether you're looking for an easy dessert to pair with your Thanksgiving meal or a make-ahead treat for holiday gatherings, these spiced apple crumble bars are sure to become a family favorite. Their convenience, flavor, and presentation make them a standout choice for any fall celebration. Read on to discover how to make these irresistible bars that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (70g) old-fashioned oats
- 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups (375g) peeled and thinly sliced Granny Smith apples
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup (28g) chopped walnuts (optional)
- 1/4 cup (28g) additional brown sugar for topping
Instructions
- Step 1: 1
Prepare Crust: In a medium bowl, combine flour, 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup butter, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9x13-inch baking pan.
💡 Tip: For extra crispness, chill the crust for 15 minutes before adding the filling.
- Step 2: 2
Make Filling: In a large bowl, toss sliced apples with lemon juice and 1 tablespoon flour. In a separate small bowl, mix 1/2 cup brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and vanilla. Spread the apples evenly over the crust. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the apples.
💡 Tip: For a deeper flavor, let the filling sit for 15 minutes while you prepare the topping.
- Step 3: 3
Make Topping: In a medium bowl, combine oats, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1/2 cup butter, and chopped walnuts. Mix until the butter is evenly distributed and the mixture forms clumps. Spread the topping evenly over the apples.
💡 Tip: For a crisper topping, use cold butter and handle the mixture as little as possible.
- Step 4: 4
Bake: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45-50 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are bubbly. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
💡 Tip: For a warm serving option, reheat individual bars in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
Recipe Card
Spiced Apple Crumble Bars Recipe
Easy bite-sized Thanksgiving dessert with warm apple spices
🛒 Ingredients
- - 1 cup all-purpose flour
- - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- - 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- - 1/4 tsp salt
- - 1 cup old-fashioned oats
- - 1/2 cup brown sugar
- - 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- - 3 cups peeled apples
👨🍳 Instructions
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour
Provides structure for the crust and filling. For a gluten-free option, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Substitutions: Gluten-free flour blend, almond flour (for a nutty flavor)
Unsalted Butter
Adds rich flavor and creates a tender crust. Cold butter is essential for achieving a crumbly texture.
Substitutions: Vegan butter, coconut oil (for a tropical twist)
Old-Fashioned Oats
Provide a hearty texture to the crumble topping. Quick oats can be used but will result in a softer topping.
Substitutions: Quick oats, rolled oats, crushed graham crackers
Granny Smith Apples
Hold their shape during baking and provide a tart balance to the sweet filling. Other firm apples like Honeycrisp work well.
Substitutions: Honeycrisp, Jonagold, Braeburn
Pro Tips for Perfect Spiced Apple Crumble Bars
🎯 Chilling the Crust
Chill the crust for 15 minutes before adding the filling to prevent it from becoming gummy during baking.
⏰ Letting Filling Sit
Allow the apple filling to sit for 15 minutes while preparing the topping to enhance the flavor melding.
❄️ Freezing Tips
Store cooled bars in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
🔥 Baking Technique
Rotate the pan halfway through baking to ensure even browning and prevent hot spots burning.
Variations & Customizations
Gluten-Free Version
Use gluten-free flour and certified gluten-free oats for a safe gluten-free option. Ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Nutty Twist
Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the crumble topping for extra crunch and flavor. Toast the nuts first for enhanced taste.
Spice Variations
Experiment with different spice combinations like cardamom and ginger, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a warm kick.
Vegan Adaptation
Use vegan butter and substitute honey for sugar in the topping. Ensure all other ingredients are vegan-friendly.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Warm Pumpkin Soup – The earthy pumpkin complements the spiced apples perfectly.
- Cranberry Relish – Adds a tart contrast to the sweet crumble.
- Green Bean Casserole – A classic Thanksgiving side that pairs well with the bars.
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Serve with a glass of spiced apple cider or a dessert wine like Port. For non-alcoholic options, pair with a caramel latte or hot chocolate.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Assemble the bars completely and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to develop further.
Refrigerator Storage
Store cooled bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
Freezer Storage
Freeze bars in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature for 2-3 hours before serving.
Reheating Instructions
For individual bars, microwave for 10-15 seconds. For larger quantities, reheat in a 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: My crust is too crumbly after baking. What went wrong?
A: This usually means the crust wasn't pressed firmly enough into the pan. Make sure to press the mixture into the pan evenly and firmly.
Q: Can I use pre-sliced apples?
A: Yes, but be sure to drain any excess liquid from the apples before using to prevent a soggy filling.
Q: My topping isn't browning properly. How can I fix this?
A: Try brushing the topping with a bit of melted butter before baking, or place under the broiler for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking time.
Q: Can I make these bars gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use a gluten-free flour blend and certified gluten-free oats. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Final Thoughts
These spiced apple crumble bars are the perfect solution for anyone who wants to enjoy the flavors of traditional apple crumble in a convenient, shareable format. With their buttery crust, cinnamon-spiced filling, and crunchy topping, they're sure to become a Thanksgiving favorite. The bite-sized portions make them ideal for serving to a crowd or packing as a sweet treat for guests to take home.
What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is - you can customize the spices, add-ins, and even the size of the bars to suit your preferences. Whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting out, these bars are a great project that's sure to impress. Don't be afraid to get creative with the variations - maybe try adding a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of sea salt for a gourmet touch.
