Delectable Apple Squares: Easy Recipes for Fall Baking

Italian Chef Team

3 months ago

Delectable Apple Squares: Easy Recipes for Fall Baking

Apple squares are a quintessential fall treat, offering a comforting blend of sweet apples, warm spices, and a buttery crust. They’re easier to make than apple pie, making them perfect for busy weeknights or weekend baking projects. This article will explore several delightful apple square recipes, ranging from classic versions to more adventurous takes. We’ll provide detailed step-by-step instructions, tips for success, and variations to suit your taste preferences.

Why Apple Squares?

Apple squares are more than just a dessert; they’re an experience. Here’s why they deserve a spot in your baking repertoire:

* **Simplicity:** Unlike apple pies, apple squares often involve a single crust or a streusel topping, simplifying the baking process.
* **Portability:** Cut them into squares, and they become perfect for lunchboxes, picnics, or potlucks.
* **Customization:** From the type of apples to the spices used, you can easily tailor the recipe to your liking.
* **Comfort Food:** The combination of apples, spices, and a buttery crust creates a comforting and satisfying treat, especially during the cooler months.

Recipe 1: Classic Apple Squares

This recipe is a tried-and-true classic, perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike.

**Ingredients:**

**For the Crust:**

* 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
* ½ cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cubed
* ¼ cup granulated sugar
* ¼ teaspoon salt
* 4-6 tablespoons ice water

**For the Filling:**

* 4 medium apples (such as Honeycrisp, Gala, or Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and diced
* ½ cup granulated sugar
* 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
* 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces

**Instructions:**

**Make the Crust:**

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. The key here is to keep the butter cold; this creates flaky layers in the crust. If your kitchen is warm, consider chilling the bowl and ingredients before starting.
3. Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix; overmixing develops gluten, which can result in a tough crust. The dough should be moist enough to hold together when pressed but not sticky.
4. Form the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax and the butter to firm up, making the dough easier to roll out.

**Prepare the Filling:**

1. In a large bowl, combine the diced apples, sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Toss to coat the apples evenly. The lemon juice prevents the apples from browning and adds a bright flavor.

**Assemble and Bake:**

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour an 8×8 inch baking pan. Greasing and flouring the pan prevents the squares from sticking and ensures easy removal.
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to fit the bottom of the prepared pan. Transfer the dough to the pan and press it evenly into the bottom. If the dough is sticking, try rolling it out between two sheets of parchment paper.
3. Pour the apple filling over the crust and spread it evenly. Distribute the apple filling evenly to ensure consistent baking.
4. Dot the top of the filling with the butter pieces. The butter adds richness and flavor to the filling.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, cover the pan loosely with foil. This prevents the crust from burning while allowing the filling to cook through.
6. Let cool completely before cutting into squares. Cooling completely allows the filling to set and prevents the squares from falling apart when cut.

**Tips for Success:**

* Use cold butter and ice water for a flaky crust.
* Don’t overmix the dough.
* Use a variety of apples for a more complex flavor.
* Let the squares cool completely before cutting.

Recipe 2: Apple Crumb Squares

This recipe adds a delightful crumb topping for extra texture and sweetness.

**Ingredients:**

**For the Crust:**

* Same as Classic Apple Squares (see above)

**For the Filling:**

* Same as Classic Apple Squares (see above)

**For the Crumb Topping:**

* ½ cup all-purpose flour
* ¼ cup packed brown sugar
* ¼ cup granulated sugar
* ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
* ¼ cup (½ stick) cold unsalted butter, cubed

**Instructions:**

1. **Make the Crust:** Follow the same instructions as in the Classic Apple Squares recipe.
2. **Prepare the Filling:** Follow the same instructions as in the Classic Apple Squares recipe.
3. **Make the Crumb Topping:** In a medium bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. The crumb topping should be loose and crumbly, not a solid mass.
4. **Assemble and Bake:**
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour an 8×8 inch baking pan.
2. Roll out the dough and press it into the prepared pan.
3. Pour the apple filling over the crust.
4. Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the filling.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the topping is golden and crispy.
6. Let cool completely before cutting into squares.

**Tips for Success:**

* Use cold butter for the crumb topping.
* Don’t pack the brown sugar when measuring.
* If the topping starts to brown too quickly, cover the pan loosely with foil.

Recipe 3: Caramel Apple Squares

This recipe adds a delicious caramel drizzle for an extra layer of sweetness and indulgence.

**Ingredients:**

**For the Crust:**

* Same as Classic Apple Squares (see above)

**For the Filling:**

* Same as Classic Apple Squares (see above)

**For the Caramel Drizzle:**

* ½ cup heavy cream
* ½ cup granulated sugar
* ¼ cup (½ stick) unsalted butter
* Pinch of salt

**Instructions:**

1. **Make the Crust:** Follow the same instructions as in the Classic Apple Squares recipe.
2. **Prepare the Filling:** Follow the same instructions as in the Classic Apple Squares recipe.
3. **Assemble and Bake:**
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour an 8×8 inch baking pan.
2. Roll out the dough and press it into the prepared pan.
3. Pour the apple filling over the crust.
4. Dot the top of the filling with the butter pieces.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
6. Let cool completely before cutting into squares.
4. **Make the Caramel Drizzle (while the squares are cooling):**
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, sugar, butter, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture comes to a simmer.
3. Continue to cook, without stirring, until the caramel is a deep amber color (about 5-7 minutes). Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature; it should reach around 245°F (118°C).
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. **Drizzle and Serve:**
1. Once the apple squares have cooled completely, drizzle the caramel sauce over the top.
2. Cut into squares and serve.

**Tips for Success:**

* Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan for the caramel to prevent burning.
* Don’t stir the caramel while it’s cooking to prevent crystallization.
* Let the caramel cool slightly before drizzling to prevent it from running off the squares.

Recipe 4: Gluten-Free Apple Squares

For those with gluten sensitivities, these apple squares offer a delicious alternative.

**Ingredients:**

**For the Crust:**

* 1 ½ cups gluten-free all-purpose flour blend (with xanthan gum)
* ½ cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cubed
* ¼ cup granulated sugar
* ¼ teaspoon salt
* 4-6 tablespoons ice water

**For the Filling:**

* Same as Classic Apple Squares (see above)

**Instructions:**

1. **Make the Crust:** Follow the same instructions as in the Classic Apple Squares recipe, but use the gluten-free flour blend. Gluten-free dough can be a bit more delicate than traditional dough, so handle it with care.
2. **Prepare the Filling:** Follow the same instructions as in the Classic Apple Squares recipe.
3. **Assemble and Bake:**
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour an 8×8 inch baking pan with gluten-free flour.
2. Roll out the dough between two sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking. Carefully transfer the dough to the prepared pan.
3. Pour the apple filling over the crust.
4. Dot the top of the filling with the butter pieces.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
6. Let cool completely before cutting into squares.

**Tips for Success:**

* Use a gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum, which helps bind the dough.
* Roll out the dough between two sheets of parchment paper.
* Handle the dough gently, as it can be more fragile than traditional dough.

Recipe 5: Vegan Apple Squares

These apple squares are a delicious option for those following a vegan diet. The crust uses a vegan butter substitute and the filling remains naturally vegan-friendly.

**Ingredients:**

**For the Crust:**

* 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
* ½ cup (1 stick) cold vegan butter substitute, cubed
* ¼ cup granulated sugar
* ¼ teaspoon salt
* 4-6 tablespoons ice water

**For the Filling:**

**Instructions:**

1. **Make the Crust:** Follow the same instructions as in the Classic Apple Squares recipe, but use the vegan butter substitute. Ensure the vegan butter is very cold for the best results.
2. **Prepare the Filling:** Follow the same instructions as in the Classic Apple Squares recipe.
3. **Assemble and Bake:**
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour an 8×8 inch baking pan.
2. Roll out the dough and press it into the prepared pan.
3. Pour the apple filling over the crust.
4. Dot the top of the filling with the vegan butter substitute pieces.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
6. Let cool completely before cutting into squares.

**Tips for Success:**

* Use a high-quality vegan butter substitute for the best flavor and texture.
* Make sure the vegan butter is very cold.
* Consider adding a sprinkle of demerara sugar on top of the crust before baking for extra crunch.

Variations and Add-ins

* **Nuts:** Add chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds to the crumb topping or directly into the apple filling for added texture and flavor.
* **Spices:** Experiment with different spices like cardamom, ginger, or allspice to customize the flavor profile.
* **Dried Fruit:** Add raisins, cranberries, or chopped dates to the apple filling for extra sweetness and chewiness.
* **Citrus Zest:** Add lemon or orange zest to the crust or filling for a bright, citrusy flavor.
* **Maple Syrup:** Substitute some of the granulated sugar in the filling with maple syrup for a more complex sweetness.
* **Ice Cream:** Serve warm apple squares with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or caramel swirl ice cream for an extra-indulgent treat.
* **Whipped Cream:** Top with homemade or store-bought whipped cream for a lighter option.
* **Cheddar Cheese:** Serve with a slice of sharp cheddar cheese for a sweet and savory combination (common in some regions).

Choosing the Right Apples

The type of apples you use can significantly impact the flavor and texture of your apple squares. Here are some popular choices:

* **Honeycrisp:** Known for their crispness and sweet-tart flavor, Honeycrisp apples hold their shape well during baking.
* **Gala:** These apples are sweet and slightly tart, with a firm texture that softens during baking.
* **Granny Smith:** These tart apples provide a nice contrast to the sweetness of the other ingredients and hold their shape well.
* **Fuji:** Sweet and juicy, Fuji apples are a good all-purpose choice for baking.
* **Braeburn:** These apples offer a complex flavor profile with notes of spice and caramel, making them a great addition to apple squares.

A combination of different apple varieties can create a more complex and interesting flavor.

Storing Apple Squares

* **Room Temperature:** Apple squares can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days in an airtight container.
* **Refrigerator:** For longer storage, keep the squares in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving.
* **Freezer:** Apple squares can also be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or store them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Tips for Baking with Apples

* **Don’t Overfill:** Avoid overfilling the pan, as this can cause the filling to bubble over and burn.
* **Use Parchment Paper:** Line the baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
* **Pre-bake the Crust (Optional):** For a crispier crust, pre-bake it for 10-15 minutes before adding the filling.
* **Check for Doneness:** The apple squares are done when the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with moist crumbs.
* **Let Cool Completely:** Allowing the squares to cool completely before cutting prevents them from falling apart.

Serving Suggestions

Apple squares are delicious on their own, but they can also be paired with a variety of toppings and accompaniments:

* **Vanilla Ice Cream:** A classic pairing that enhances the warmth and sweetness of the apple squares.
* **Caramel Sauce:** Drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra layer of indulgence.
* **Whipped Cream:** Top with whipped cream for a light and airy treat.
* **Cinnamon Sugar:** Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar for added flavor and texture.
* **Coffee or Tea:** Serve with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.

Conclusion

Apple squares are a versatile and delicious dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With these recipes and tips, you can create your own signature apple squares that will impress your friends and family. Whether you prefer a classic version, a crumb topping, or a caramel drizzle, there’s an apple square recipe for everyone. So grab your apples, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy the comforting flavors of fall!

Tags: Recipes