Name: Apple Pie Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 4 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 tablespoon cornstarch

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Apple Pie Bars offer a delightful twist on the traditional apple pie, combining all the flavors of a classic pie in a convenient, easy-to-serve bar form. With a buttery crust, a spiced apple filling, and a golden topping, this dessert is perfect for gatherings or as a sweet treat anytime you crave something comforting. It's a great way to enjoy the flavors of fall year-round!

Apple Pie Bars

Ingredients

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon salt

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 cup granulated sugar

1 large egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

4 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced

1 tablespoon lemon juice

½ cup brown sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

1 tablespoon cornstarch

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

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix until combined.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to create the crust layer.

In a separate bowl, toss the sliced apples with lemon juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cornstarch until evenly coated.

Spread the apple mixture evenly over the crust layer in the baking pan.

Roll out the remaining dough to fit over the apples and place it on top. Alternatively, crumble the dough over the apples for a rustic topping.

Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the apples are tender.

Allow the bars to cool before slicing into squares.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12 servings

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 45 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover Apple Pie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If I want to keep them fresh for a little longer, I place them in the fridge for up to a week. To reheat, I just pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to bring them back to their delicious, freshly baked state.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time! I often prepare the dough the day before and store it in the fridge. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.

Can I use a different type of apple?

Absolutely! I like to use a mix of tart and sweet apples, such as Granny Smith and Fuji, for a balance of flavor. However, feel free to experiment with your favorite apple variety.

Can I make the topping with a crumble?

Yes! If I’m in the mood for a more rustic look, I crumble the remaining dough over the apples instead of rolling it out into a solid top. It adds a nice texture and extra buttery flavor.

How do I know when the Apple Pie Bars are done baking?

I check the bars when the top is golden brown and the apples are tender. I also like to insert a toothpick into the crust to ensure it comes out clean, indicating that the dough is fully baked.

Can I freeze these Apple Pie Bars?

Yes, you can freeze them! I allow the bars to cool completely, then slice them and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply leave them at room temperature for a few hours.

Conclusion

Apple Pie Bars are a wonderful way to enjoy the classic flavors of apple pie without the fuss of a pie crust. The combination of buttery crust, spiced apple filling, and golden topping makes them a delicious and comforting dessert. I love making these bars for family gatherings, holidays, or just because I’m craving something sweet. They’re simple, satisfying, and always a hit!

Recipe:

Apple Pie Bars

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 12 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix until combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to create the crust layer.
In a separate bowl, toss the sliced apples with lemon juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cornstarch until evenly coated.
Spread the apple mixture evenly over the crust layer in the baking pan.
Roll out the remaining dough to fit over the apples and place it on top. Alternatively, crumble the dough over the apples for a rustic topping.
Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the apples are tender.
Allow the bars to cool before slicing into squares.

Notes

Store leftover Apple Pie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Refrigerate for up to a week for longer freshness.

If you want to make the dough ahead of time, store it in the fridge and let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.

For a more rustic look, crumble the remaining dough over the apples instead of rolling it out into a solid top.

To freeze, wrap the cooled, sliced bars tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American