Save Tender apple bars layered with luscious caramel and a hint of earthy matcha, finished with a buttery crumble. A unique twist on classic apple bars, perfect for teatime or dessert.
The first time I made these bars, they became an instant favorite at family gatherings. The unique matcha flavor combined with caramel and apples always gets compliments, especially from those who love fusion desserts.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups (250 g)
- Granulated sugar: 1 cup (200 g) and 2 tbsp, divided
- Matcha powder (culinary grade): 1 ½ tsp
- Fine sea salt: ½ tsp
- Unsalted butter: ¾ cup (170 g), cold and cubed plus 3 tbsp for the caramel
- Apples: 3 medium (about 400 g), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- Lemon juice: 1 tbsp
- Ground cinnamon: ½ tsp
- Heavy cream: ½ cup (120 ml)
- Light brown sugar: ½ cup (100 g)
- Vanilla extract: ½ tsp
- Salt: Pinch
Instructions
- Prepare Pan:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch (20x20 cm) pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang.
- Make Crust and Crumble:
- Combine flour, sugar, matcha powder, and salt in a bowl. Add cold butter and use pastry cutter or fingers until mixture looks like coarse crumbs.
- Press Crust:
- Press two-thirds of mixture into pan for crust. Reserve the rest for crumble topping.
- Prepare Apple Filling:
- Toss apples with sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon. Spread over crust.
- Make Caramel:
- Heat heavy cream, brown sugar, 3 tbsp butter, vanilla, and pinch of salt in saucepan until boiling. Simmer 3–4 minutes, stirring, until thickened.
- Assemble:
- Pour caramel over apples, sprinkle reserved crumble on top.
- Bake:
- Bake 40 minutes, or until top is golden and caramel bubbles.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let cool fully before lifting from pan and slicing into bars.
Save These bars always remind me of cozy autumn afternoons with family, sipping tea and enjoying homemade treats fresh from the oven.
Required Tools
8x8-inch (20x20 cm) baking pan, mixing bowls, saucepan, pastry cutter or fork, parchment paper, knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains wheat, dairy, and may have traces of nuts depending on matcha. Always verify ingredient labels.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 290, Total Fat: 13 g, Carbohydrates: 41 g, Protein: 2 g
Save Enjoy a fresh batch with your favorite tea or coffee, and savor every bite. These bars are sure to become a household classic!
Recipe Help
- → What type of apples work best?
Tart varieties like Granny Smith balance the sweetness and complement the caramel layer perfectly.
- → Can I substitute matcha powder?
You may use green tea powder, but matcha gives the most vibrant color and flavor to the crumble.
- → How do I make these bars vegan?
Replace butter with vegan margarine and substitute heavy cream with a plant-based alternative.
- → How should I store these apple bars?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for freshness.
- → What can I serve alongside these bars?
Pair with vanilla ice cream or a dusting of extra matcha for a distinct presentation and flavor.
- → Is there a gluten-free option?
Try using your favorite gluten-free flour blend for the crust and topping, adjusting for texture as needed.