Indulge your taste buds with a delightful twist on a classic dessert—Vegan Apple Crumble Custard Bars! Imagine layers of tender, spiced apples nestled beneath a creamy custard, all topped with a crunchy oat crumble that will leave you craving more. This recipe is not just a treat for your palate; it's a guilt-free dessert that everyone can enjoy, whether you're vegan or simply looking for a healthier option. With just an hour of your time, you can whip up a batch of these delectable bars that are perfect for sharing at gatherings or savoring all by yourself. Ready to impress your friends and family? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 25 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Vegan
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup coconut oil
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 4 cups sliced apples
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 cup almond milk
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring the paper overhangs the sides for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, almond flour, melted coconut oil, and brown sugar. Mix thoroughly until a crumbly mixture forms.
- Press approximately 2/3 of the oat mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to create a solid base crust. Reserve the remaining mixture for the topping.
- In a separate bowl, toss sliced apples with cinnamon and nutmeg, ensuring even coating of the spices.
- Layer the spiced apple slices evenly over the prepared crust.
- In a small saucepan, whisk almond milk and cornstarch together until smooth and no lumps remain.
- Heat the almond milk mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens into a custard-like consistency, approximately 3-5 minutes.
- Pour the warm custard evenly over the apple layer.
- Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture over the top of the custard to create a crumble topping.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are slightly bubbling.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan for at least 1 hour to allow the custard to set.
- Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan, then slice into 12 even squares.
- Serve at room temperature or chilled, optionally garnished with a dusting of cinnamon or a dollop of vegan whipped cream.
Tips
- Choose the Right Apples: For the best flavor and texture, opt for a mix of sweet and tart apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. This balance will enhance the overall taste of your bars.
- Make Ahead: These bars can be prepared a day in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator after they cool completely to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Customize Your Spices: Feel free to experiment with spices! Adding a pinch of ginger or a splash of vanilla extract can elevate the flavor profile even further.
- Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on the bars while baking. The top should be golden brown, and the edges should be slightly bubbling. If you find the top is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil.
- Serve with Style: For an extra touch, serve your bars with a dusting of cinnamon or a dollop of vegan whipped cream. This will not only enhance the presentation but also add a delicious creaminess.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. These bars can also be frozen for longer storage; just thaw them overnight in the fridge before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 0mg
