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Apple Crisp Bars Recipe: Easy Homemade Cinnamon Streusel Dessert

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These cozy apple crisp bars feature gooey cinnamon-spiced apples layered between a buttery oat streusel crust and topping. Perfect for potlucks, snacks, or family gatherings, they deliver all the comfort of classic apple crisp in a portable, shareable bar.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (can use gluten-free blend if needed)
  • 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional, depending on butter)
  • 3 cups apples (about 4 medium), peeled, cored, and diced small (Granny Smith and Honeycrisp recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (or coconut sugar)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 teaspoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free)
  • 1/3 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
  • 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease the paper.
  2. In a large bowl, combine 1 3/4 cups flour, 1 1/2 cups oats, 1 cup brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
  3. Pour in 3/4 cup melted butter and mix until crumbly. Set aside 1 1/4 cups of the mixture for topping.
  4. Press the remaining streusel mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust.
  5. In a medium bowl, toss diced apples with 2 tablespoons sugar, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, 2 teaspoons lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon flour. Mix until evenly coated. Add nuts or dried fruit if using.
  6. Spread apple filling evenly over the crust.
  7. Sprinkle reserved streusel mixture evenly over the apples. Add extra nuts on top if desired.
  8. Bake for 35-40 minutes, until the top is golden brown and apples are bubbling at the edges.
  9. Let bars cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes. Use parchment overhang to lift out, then slice into bars. For cleaner slices, chill the pan for 30 minutes before cutting.

Notes

Mix tart and sweet apples for best flavor. Don’t overmix the streusel for a crumbly topping. Let bars cool before slicing for best results. Easily adapted to gluten-free or dairy-free by swapping flour and butter. Add nuts or dried fruit for extra texture and flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple crisp bars, cinnamon streusel, easy dessert, fall baking, apple dessert, oat bars, homemade apple bars, portable dessert, comfort food, autumn recipe

Find it online: https://norasfoods.com/apple-crisp-bars-recipe-easy-homemade-cinnamon-streusel-dessert/