Apple Pie Bars

These Apple Pie Bars are the perfect balance of a buttery, crumbly crust and a sweet, cinnamon-spiced apple topping, all finished off with a creamy glaze. They’re an easy-to-make dessert that brings all the comforting flavors of apple pie into a simple, shareable bar form. Perfect for fall baking or any time you’re craving a delicious, homey treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Apple Pie Bars offer all the warm, spiced goodness of a traditional apple pie, but without the hassle of a pie crust. The buttery, crumbly crust gives a delightful texture, while the apple filling is sweet, tart, and perfectly spiced with cinnamon. The glaze adds a creamy touch, making these bars not only delicious but visually appealing too. They’re ideal for sharing at family gatherings, parties, or simply as a cozy dessert to enjoy at home.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

• ¼ cup brown sugar

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon cinnamon

For the Apple Filling:

• 2 large apples, peeled and diced

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 2 tablespoons milk

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prep the Oven and Pan:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.

2. Make the Crust:

In a large bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, softened butter, salt, and cinnamon. Mix until crumbly, resembling damp sand. Press half of this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish to form the base.

3. Prepare the Apples:

In a separate bowl, toss the diced apples with lemon juice and vanilla extract until the apples are well coated. Spread the apple mixture evenly over the crust.

4. Top the Bars:

Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over the apples. Press it down gently to create an even, slightly compacted top layer.

5. Bake:

Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the kitchen smells amazing. The apples should be tender and the bars firm.

6. Make the Glaze:

While the bars are cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk in a small bowl to make a smooth glaze.

7. Finish and Serve:

Once the bars have cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze generously over the top. Slice into bars and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 bars

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes

• Total Time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

• Add Nuts: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top before baking for an added crunch.

• Use Different Fruits: Try adding pears, berries, or a combination of fruits for a fun twist on the classic apple version.

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of ground ginger or nutmeg to the apple filling for extra warmth.

Storage/Reheating

• Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

• These bars can also be stored in the fridge for a longer shelf life.

• To reheat, microwave a bar for 10-15 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes! These bars can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container. They actually taste even better the next day when the flavors have had time to meld.

Can I use pre-made pie crust for these bars?

While the homemade crust adds a delightful texture, you can use pre-made pie dough if you’re in a pinch. Just make sure to press it into the baking dish and follow the same instructions for layering the apples and topping.

Can I use frozen apples for this recipe?

Fresh apples are preferred, but if you only have frozen apples, be sure to thaw and drain them well to prevent excess liquid from making the crust soggy.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The bars are done when the top is golden brown, and the apples are tender. If you’re unsure, insert a toothpick into the center, and if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, they’re ready.

How can I make these bars gluten-free?

To make these bars gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check if the other ingredients, like the breadcrumbs or granulated sugar, are certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

These Apple Pie Bars are a perfect blend of sweet, cinnamon-spiced apples, buttery crust, and creamy glaze. Whether you’re serving them for dessert after dinner or bringing them to a potluck, they’re sure to be a hit! Easy to make, delicious to eat, and perfect for any occasion, these bars will quickly become a favorite treat in your baking rotation.

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