Description
Apple Custard Bars featuring a buttery shortcrust base, a creamy spiced apple cider custard filling, and a sweet shredded apple topping.
Ingredients
For the Shortcrust:
1 stick unsalted butter, softened
⅓ cup light brown sugar
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
⅛ teaspoon salt
1 cup + 2 tablespoons all purpose flour
For the Custard Filling:
⅔ cup condensed milk
2 eggs
⅓ cup spiced apple cider
1 ½ teaspoons flour
½ teaspoon baking powder
⅛ teaspoon salt
For the Apple Topping:
2 tablespoons butter
3 cups apple, peeled, cored and shredded
3 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon maple syrup
¼ teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Prepare an 8×8 inch pan by lining it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
- Step 2: In a bowl, combine all the shortcrust ingredients until the mixture forms large, crumbly clumps that stick together when pressed.
- Step 3: Press the shortcrust dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Use a fork to poke holes all over the crust.
- Step 4: Bake the crust for about 20 minutes, or until the edges start to turn golden brown. Remove it from the oven.
- Step 5: While the crust bakes, prepare the custard filling. In a large bowl, whisk together the condensed milk, eggs, and spiced apple cider until fully combined.
- Step 6: Add the flour, baking powder, and salt to the custard mixture and whisk until just incorporated.
- Step 7: Pour the custard filling over the par-baked crust. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is lightly browned and the custard is just set.
- Step 8: Remove the bars from the oven and let them cool completely. Then, refrigerate for 2-3 hours or until fully chilled.
- Step 9: To make the apple topping, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the shredded apple, brown sugar, maple syrup, and cinnamon.
- Step 10: Cook the apple mixture, stirring occasionally, until the apples have released their liquid and the sauce is syrupy and slightly thickened. Let it cool completely.
- Step 11: Once the bars are chilled and you are ready to serve, cut them into squares and top each one with a spoonful of the cooled apple mixture.
Notes
Gala apples were used for this recipe, but feel free to use your favorite variety.
Lining the pan with parchment is recommended for easy removal, but not essential.
Keep any leftovers refrigerated.
- Prep Time: 190 mins
- Cook Time: 45 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: American