Apple Pie Bars Recipe | Easy Homemade Apple Pie Bars

Apple pie bars are a delightful twist on the classic apple pie, combining all the comforting flavors of cinnamon spiced apples and buttery crust into a convenient bar form.

These treats are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack. Unlike traditional pies that require careful slicing and serving, apple pie bars are portable, easy to serve, and loved by both children and adults.

Whether for a holiday gathering, a casual get together, or a treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee, apple pie bars offer a delicious solution. They combine all the flavors of a traditional apple pie with the convenience of a bar, making them an irresistible option for anyone craving a sweet, comforting dessert.

Ingredients Needed

For the best apple pie bars, it is important to use fresh, crisp apples and high quality butter. Below is a table of the main ingredients along with their approximate calorie count per serving.

Ingredient	Amount	Calories per Serving
All purpose flour	2 1/2 cups	110
Granulated sugar	3/4 cup	580
Brown sugar	1/2 cup	420
Unsalted butter	1 cup (2 sticks)	1628
Baking powder	1 tsp	2
Salt	1/2 tsp	0
Ground cinnamon	2 tsp	12
Ground nutmeg	1/4 tsp	2
Fresh apples	4 medium, peeled and diced	320
Egg	1 large	70
Vanilla extract	1 tsp	12
Lemon juice	1 tbsp	3
Optional glaze	1/2 cup powdered sugar + 1 tbsp milk	60

These ingredients provide a balance of sweetness and spice that enhances the natural flavor of the apples while keeping the crust tender and flavorful.

Step by Step Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line a 9 by 13 inch baking pan with parchment paper. This ensures easy removal and clean edges.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in 1 cup of cold butter using a pastry blender or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This will form the buttery base of the bars.
3. Press two thirds of the crumb mixture evenly into the prepared pan. Bake the crust for 15 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.
4. Peel, core, and dice the apples into small bite sized pieces. In a medium saucepan, combine the apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat for about 5 to 7 minutes until the apples are slightly softened. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
5. Spread the apple mixture evenly over the pre baked crust. Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture on top, pressing lightly to ensure it sticks.
6. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25 to 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbly.
7. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. Drizzle with optional glaze for an extra touch of sweetness.

Tips for Customizing the Recipe

Adding your personal touch to apple pie bars can make them even more special. One option is to mix in chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans into the crumb topping. This adds a satisfying crunch and enhances the flavor of the buttery crust.

Using different apple varieties can create subtle variations in taste. For a sweeter bar, use Fuji or Honeycrisp apples. For a slightly tart flavor that balances the sugar, Granny Smith apples work perfectly. Combining different types of apples can also produce a more complex flavor profile.

Experimenting with spices can change the character of the bars. Adding a pinch of cloves, ginger, or cardamom to the apple filling can provide a warm, aromatic twist. Some bakers also like to add raisins or dried cranberries for extra texture and a burst of sweetness.

For a decadent version, drizzle caramel sauce over the bars just before serving or fold cream cheese into the crumb topping for a soft, creamy layer. Adjusting sugar levels can make the bars less sweet for those who prefer a more balanced dessert.

Nutritional Information

Apple pie bars offer a comforting treat but also contain moderate amounts of calories and sugar due to the butter and sugars in the recipe. On average, one bar provides approximately 350 calories, 12 grams of fat, 55 grams of carbohydrates, 3 grams of protein, and 2 grams of dietary fiber.

Using fresh apples adds vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and potassium. Choosing less sugar or swapping brown sugar for coconut sugar can reduce the glycemic load while maintaining flavor. Additionally, using whole grain flour instead of all purpose flour can add fiber and slightly improve the nutritional profile.

Moderation is key, but these bars can fit into a balanced diet when enjoyed occasionally as a dessert or snack. Pairing them with fresh fruit or a small serving of yogurt can make them part of a wholesome breakfast or afternoon treat.

Serving Suggestions

Apple pie bars are versatile and can be served in many ways. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a classic dessert. Warmed slightly in the oven or microwave, they release the sweet aroma of apples and cinnamon, making them irresistible.

For a breakfast twist, serve the bars alongside a cup of coffee or tea. They can also be cut into smaller bite sized pieces and served at parties or gatherings as finger food. Sprinkling a little powdered sugar on top adds an elegant finishing touch, while a drizzle of caramel sauce or honey elevates their sweetness.

Apple pie bars are also ideal for gifting. Wrapping them in parchment paper tied with twine or placing them in decorative boxes makes for a thoughtful homemade gift. They store well in an airtight container at room temperature for several days, and can even be frozen for longer storage without losing their texture or flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen apples for apple pie bars?
Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess liquid in the bars.

Can these bars be made gluten free?
Absolutely. Substitute all purpose flour with a gluten free flour blend that measures cup for cup for similar texture.

How long do apple pie bars last?
When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they last about three to four days. Refrigeration can extend freshness up to a week.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, apple pie bars can be prepared a day in advance. Store them covered at room temperature or in the fridge and add a glaze just before serving.

Can I add other fruits?
Yes, fruits like pears, peaches, or berries can be added to the apple filling. Adjust sugar levels according to the sweetness of the fruit.

Conclusion

Apple pie bars are a timeless dessert that combines comfort, flavor, and convenience. Their buttery crust and spiced apple filling capture the essence of classic apple pie while making them easy to serve and enjoy. Whether for a family gathering, a holiday celebration, or simply an indulgent treat, these bars never fail to impress.