Description
These rustic Dairy-Free Apple Walnut Bars are the perfect handheld treat for any occasion. Featuring a sturdy, nutty whole wheat crust, a spiced Granny Smith apple filling, and a crunchy walnut streusel topping, these bars balance wholesome ingredients with cozy autumn flavors. They are easy to prepare, require no complex equipment, and are free from dairy, making them a fantastic choice for those looking for a satisfying, allergen-friendly dessert that doesn’t compromise on texture or taste.
Ingredients
1/2 cup + 1/4 cup finely chopped walnuts
1 cup + 3 tbsp whole wheat flour
3 large Granny Smith apples, thinly sliced
11 tbsp cold plant-based butter substitute
1 1/4 cups powdered sugar
1/2 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 tbsp cornstarch
2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp fresh nutmeg
1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper.
Process walnuts until fine crumbs, then whisk with flour, 1/4 cup powdered sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
Cut in 8 tbsp cold butter substitute until crumbly, then press firmly into the pan and prick with a fork.
Bake the crust for 20 minutes until set and light brown.
In a bowl, toss sliced apples with cornstarch, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Combine oats, remaining butter substitute, flour, and brown sugar to make the streusel topping.
Spread apple mixture over the baked crust, sprinkle with streusel and remaining walnuts.
Bake for an additional 35 minutes until apples are tender and topping is golden.
Whisk remaining powdered sugar with a splash of water to create a glaze and drizzle over cooled bars.
Notes
Ensure the butter substitute is kept very cold to maintain the flakiness of the crust. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness. You can swap apples for pears if desired.
- Prep Time: 25
- Cook Time: 55
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg