Gluten-Free Apple Pie Bars

Gluten-Free Apple Pie Bars

If you're in search of a dessert that melds traditional flavors with a modern gluten-free twist, look no further than these alluring gluten-free apple pie bars. Perfectly blending the comforting warmth of apples and spices with a crumbly, buttery crust, these bars are sure to delight both gluten-sensitive and wheat-loving guests alike.

Ingredients

• For the Crust and Topping:

  • 1 cup of gluten-free oats
  • 1 cup of almond flour
  • 1/2 cup of coconut sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup of melted coconut oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon of salt

• For the Apple Filling:

  • 4 cups of peeled and thinly sliced apples (approximately 4 medium apples)
  • 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup of coconut sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
  • 1 tablespoon of gluten-free cornstarch

Cooking Method

1. Prepare the Crust and Topping:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the gluten-free oats, almond flour, coconut sugar, ground cinnamon, melted coconut oil, and salt. Mix until well combined and crumbly.
   • Press half of the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form the crust. Reserve the other half for the topping.

2. 

   Prepare the Apple Filling:

   • In another bowl, toss the sliced apples with lemon juice, coconut sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and cornstarch until the apples are evenly coated.

3. Assemble and Bake:

   • Spread the apple filling evenly over the crust in the baking pan.
   • Sprinkle the reserved oat and almond flour mixture over the top of the apple filling.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender.
   • Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out and slicing into squares.

Nutritious Value and Pairings

These gluten-free apple pie bars are a healthier alternative to traditional apple pie, providing a source of fiber from the oats and almonds. Coconut oil and coconut sugar contribute healthier fat and sugar alternatives respectively, making this dessert a more nutritious choice.

For a complete and balanced treat, consider pairing these bars with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream. For those seeking a refreshing beverage pairing, a cinnamon-spiced herbal tea or a warm chai latte would complement the flavors beautifully. To add a contrasting texture and flavor, a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette could be an excellent side dish when serving these bars as an after-dinner dessert.