What kind of apples are best for apple crumb bars?

Granny Smith apples are classic for their tart flavor and firmness, but Honeycrisp and Braeburn also work beautifully in this recipe.

Can I freeze Grandma’s apple crumb bars?

Yes! Wrap tightly in parchment and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat in a low oven for 10–12 minutes.

How do I keep the crumb topping from getting soggy?

Make sure the apple filling isn’t too wet—add a bit of flour to absorb moisture—and always let bars cool completely before covering or cutting.

Are these bars better served warm or cold?

Both! Warm bars are soft and cozy; cold bars slice cleaner and are perfect for packed lunches or snacks on the go.

Can I make apple crumb bars gluten-free?

Yes. Swap all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, and be sure your oats are certified gluten-free.

What’s the difference between apple pie bars and apple crumb bars?

Apple pie bars usually have a pie crust base and a custard-like filling. Grandma’s Apple Crumb Bars use a crumble-style base and topping with a fresher apple filling.

Grandma’s Apple Crumb Bars – 7 Cozy Reasons to Bake Now

Description

These classic Grandma’s Apple Crumb Bars are filled with tender apples and warm spices, layered between a buttery crumb crust and topping. A nostalgic treat that’s easy to bake and perfect for any season.

Ingredients

Scale

5–6 medium Granny Smith apples, peeled and thinly sliced
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup old-fashioned oats
1 cup brown sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp ground nutmeg
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp all-purpose flour (for apple filling)
1 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 baking dish with parchment paper.
In a bowl, toss sliced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and 1 tbsp flour. Set aside.
In another bowl, whisk together 2 cups flour, oats, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Press half of the crumb mixture into the prepared pan to form the crust.
Spread apple mixture evenly over the crust.
Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture on top of the apples.
Bake for 40–45 minutes until golden and bubbling at the edges.
Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Serve warm or chilled. Enjoy!

Notes

You can substitute half the apples with pears or add cranberries for a seasonal twist.

For a nutty crunch, add chopped pecans to the topping.

Letting the bars cool fully helps them slice cleanly.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 265 kcal
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 120mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 37g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 30mg