Apple Walnut Crumble Bars

There’s something truly magical about the smell of warm spices and freshly baked apples filling your home on a crisp autumn day. If you’ve ever yearned for a dessert that tastes like a cozy hug, rich with layers of texture and flavor, you’re about to discover your new favorite treat. These Rustic Apple Walnut Crumble Squares combine the sweetness of tender apples, the crunch of toasted walnuts, and a buttery crumble topping that’s simply irresistible.

Whether you’re looking for a way to celebrate the fall harvest or need a crowd-pleasing dessert for your next gathering, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. From prep to plate, you’ll find the process straightforward, the ingredients simple, and the results stunning. Let’s dive into why this recipe is so special and how you can master it yourself.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with Rustic Apple Walnut Crumble Squares

You’re not just making a dessert; you’re creating an experience — one that balances classic fall flavors with a rustic charm. Here’s what makes these squares stand out:

• A symphony of textures: Tender baked apples nestled under a golden, buttery crust dotted with crunchy walnuts and warm cinnamon. Every bite offers a delightful contrast.
• Natural sweetness and spice: You won’t find overpowering sugar here. The apples provide natural fruitiness, gently enhanced by cinnamon and a hint of nutmeg, evoking cozy memories.
• Simple ingredients, impressive results: You likely have everything you need in your pantry already. No complicated steps or fancy tools, just straightforward baking that yields a beautiful treat.
• Versatility for any occasion: These squares work as an elegant dessert, a snack with your afternoon tea, or even a quick breakfast option.

Now that you’re excited, let’s get into the details.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Rustic Apple Walnut Crumble Squares

To ensure success, it’s important to gather your ingredients carefully. Here’s a clear breakdown of what you’ll use for both the crust and the filling.

Crust Ingredients

Ingredient	Amount	Notes
Unsalted butter	1 cup (2 sticks), softened	Room temperature for easy mixing
Granulated sugar	1/3 cup	Adds sweetness and crispness
Light brown sugar	1/4 cup, lightly packed	Brings depth and moisture
Pure vanilla extract	1 teaspoon	Enhances flavor
All-purpose flour	2 cups	Provides structure
Kosher salt	3/4 teaspoon	Balances sweetness
Ground cinnamon	1 teaspoon	Warms the crust
Finely chopped walnuts	1/3 cup	Adds crunch and nuttiness

Filling Ingredients

Ingredient	Amount	Notes
Apples (peeled, sliced)	3 lbs (about 4 medium)	Gala, Braeburn, Pink Lady, or Golden Delicious for best texture
Fresh lemon juice	1 tablespoon	Prevents browning, adds brightness
Granulated sugar	3 tablespoons	Sweetens the apples
Ground cinnamon	1.5 teaspoons	Provides classic apple spice
Freshly grated nutmeg	1/2 teaspoon	Adds warm, aromatic notes
Unsalted butter	2 tablespoons	Used to sauté apples
Cornstarch	1 teaspoon	Thickens the filling

Step-by-Step Guide: Making Your Rustic Apple Walnut Crumble Squares

Preparing the Crust

1. Cream the butter and sugars
   Start by beating the softened butter together with both the granulated and brown sugars until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. Adding the vanilla extract now will infuse the crust with a subtle sweetness.
2. Combine dry ingredients
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, cinnamon, and chopped walnuts. This ensures even distribution of the spices and nuts throughout your crust.
3. Mix dry into wet
   Gradually add the flour mixture into the butter-sugar mixture, stirring gently until everything just comes together. Be careful not to overmix; you want a tender crumb.
4. Press and chill
   Press about two-thirds of this dough evenly into your prepared 8×8-inch baking pan lined with parchment paper. This base will form your crust. Chill it in the fridge for 20 minutes to firm up before baking.
5. Bake the crust
   Pop the crust into a preheated 375°F oven for 18 to 20 minutes or until it turns a lovely golden color. Let it cool completely while you prepare the filling.

Crafting the Apple Filling

1. Sauté the apples
   Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced apples, fresh lemon juice, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir to coat the apples in the mixture.
2. Cook until tender
   Let the apples soften and release their juices as they cook for about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.
3. Thicken the filling
   Sprinkle cornstarch over the apples and stir well. Continue cooking for a few minutes until the mixture thickens to a jam-like consistency. This will prevent the filling from being too watery.

Assembling and Baking Your Squares

1. Spread the filling
   Evenly spread the warm apple filling over your cooled crust base. Make sure it’s level for even baking.
2. Add the crumble topping
   Crumble the remaining dough over the apple layer, breaking it into chunks and sprinkling it to cover the filling generously.
3. Bake to perfection
   Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden and you see the filling bubbling through the crumbs.
4. Cool before cutting
   Allow the crumble squares to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This cooling time helps the bars set, making them easier to cut into neat squares.

Helpful Tips to Master This Recipe

• Use parchment paper for easy removal
  Lining your pan ensures the bars lift out easily, preserving their rustic shape.
• Choose firm apples
  Varieties like Gala, Braeburn, Pink Lady, or Golden Delicious hold their texture well during cooking without turning mushy.
• Don’t skip chilling the crust
  This step is key to preventing shrinkage and maintaining a sturdy base for your filling.
• Adjust sweetness to taste
  Depending on your apples’ natural sweetness, you can tweak the sugar amounts slightly.

Nutritional Info & Serving Suggestions

Each serving of these crumble squares offers approximately 300 calories, making it a satisfying treat without overindulgence. The combination of fruit, nuts, and butter provides a balance of carbohydrates, fats, and protein.

For a delightful finish, consider pairing your squares with:

• A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream
• A dollop of freshly whipped cream
• A warm cup of coffee or spiced tea

These add-ons enhance the cozy experience, especially on cooler days.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rustic Apple Walnut Crumble Squares

Can I substitute walnuts with other nuts?

Absolutely! Pecans or almonds are excellent alternatives and add their own unique flavor and crunch. If you have a nut allergy, simply omit them.

What apple varieties work best?

You’ll want apples that hold their shape and offer a balance of sweetness and tartness. Gala, Braeburn, Pink Lady, and Golden Delicious are perfect choices.

How do I store leftovers?

Keep your crumble squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to five days or freeze for up to three months.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes. Replace the all-purpose flour in the crust with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your baking powder (if using) is gluten-free.

Can I prepare parts of the recipe ahead of time?

You can make the crust a day in advance and refrigerate it. The apple filling can also be cooked and stored in the fridge for a few hours before assembling.

Why These Rustic Apple Walnut Crumble Squares Belong in Your Fall Baking Rotation

This recipe perfectly captures the essence of autumn with its warm spices and seasonal fruit. You’ll find it easy to prepare, flexible enough to adapt to your tastes, and crowd-pleasing enough for holidays and casual family dinners alike. The rustic presentation lends itself to a homemade feel that’s both comforting and impressive.

Delicious Variations to Try

• Add dried cranberries or raisins for a touch of chewiness and tartness.
• Swap walnuts for toasted pecans to introduce a richer, buttery flavor.
• Drizzle with caramel sauce before serving for an indulgent twist.
• Serve warm or cold — both work wonderfully, depending on your mood.

Crumble Squares Your Go-To Fall Treat

You now have all the tools to create a dessert that feels like home. These Rustic Apple Walnut Crumble Squares blend familiar flavors with a homemade charm that’s hard to resist. Next time you crave something sweet, warm, and satisfying, this recipe is your answer.

Why wait? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and start baking. Don’t forget to share your creations and variations — your kitchen adventures might just inspire others to bake along.

Enjoy the taste of fall in every delicious bite!

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