๐๐ฎ Apple Custard Bars ๐๐ฎ
What is it?
Apple Custard Bars are a delicious dessert that combines the sweet and tart flavors of apples with a creamy custard filling, all atop a buttery crust. These bars are a delightful treat that showcases the beauty of fresh apples and the richness of custard.
History:
The exact origin of Apple Custard Bars is not well-documented, but it likely evolved from traditional apple pies and custard desserts that have been enjoyed for generations. Combining the two into bars may have been a creative twist by home bakers looking for a portable and easy-to-share dessert option.
Components:
-
Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- A pinch of salt
-
Apple Filling:
- 2-3 medium-sized apples (peeled, cored, and thinly sliced)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- A pinch of nutmeg (optional)
-
Custard Filling:
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Steps to Prepare:
-
Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC).
- In a food processor, combine the flour, cold cubed butter, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press the crust mixture into the bottom of a greased 9ร9-inch (23ร23 cm) baking pan.
- Bake the crust for 15-20 minutes or until itโs lightly golden. Remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly.
-
Prepare the Apple Filling:
- In a bowl, combine the thinly sliced apples, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using). Toss to coat the apples evenly.
- Spread the apple mixture over the partially baked crust.
-
Prepare the Custard Filling:
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the apples.
-
Baking:
- Place the baking pan back in the oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes, or until the custard is set and lightly golden.
-
Cooling and Serving:
- Allow the Apple Custard Bars to cool in the pan for a while before refrigerating them for a few hours or overnight to set completely.
- Once chilled, cut into bars and serve.
Time Needed:
The total time needed to prepare Apple Custard Bars, including baking and cooling, is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours.
Enjoy your delightful Apple Custard Bars! ๐๐ฎ๐
Sure, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Apple Custard Bars:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate, per serving):
- Calories: 250-300
- Total Fat: 12-15 grams
- Saturated Fat: 7-9 grams
- Cholesterol: 70-90 milligrams
- Sodium: 50-70 milligrams
- Total Carbohydrates: 33-40 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 1-2 grams
- Sugars: 18-22 grams
- Protein: 3-4 grams
Health Information:
- Moderate Calories: Apple Custard Bars are moderately calorie-dense due to the combination of buttery crust, sugar, and cream. Itโs best enjoyed in moderation as a special treat.
- Moderate Fat: The bars contain a moderate amount of fat, with some being saturated fat from butter. Saturated fats should be consumed in limited quantities for heart health.
- Moderate Sugar: These bars contain added sugars from granulated sugar. Excessive sugar consumption should be avoided for overall health.
- Some Fiber: While thereโs not a high fiber content, the apples do provide some dietary fiber, which is good for digestion.
- Protein: The bars provide a small amount of protein, but they are not a significant source of this nutrient.
Apple Custard Bars are a delightful dessert, but they should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet, especially if youโre watching your calorie, sugar, and fat intake.