Apple Pie Bars
Delightful Apple Pie Bars Recipe
Apple Pie Bars are a delicious twist on the classic apple pie, providing all the flavors you love in a convenient and easy-to-eat format. These bars combine a sweet crumble crust with tender, spiced apples, making them perfect for dessert, snacks, or gatherings. You can expect a delightful blend of flavors and textures in every bite!
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to try making Apple Pie Bars! Not only are they easy to prepare, but they also capture the essence of fall with their warm, spiced apple filling. The rich buttery crust complements the sweetness of the apples beautifully, and these bars can be enjoyed warm, at room temperature, or chilled. Plus, they are a fantastic treat to share at potlucks, family gatherings, or cozy evenings at home.
How to Make Apple Pie Bars
Making these delectable Apple Pie Bars is straightforward and requires just a few simple steps. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you create this tasty dessert.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 3 cups peeled and sliced apples
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon.
- Add the softened butter and egg to the dry mixture. Mix until the mixture is crumbly.
- Press half of the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form the crust.
- In another bowl, toss together the sliced apples, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Spread the apple mixture evenly over the crust.
- Crumble the remaining dough over the top of the apple layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
- Allow the bars to cool in the pan before cutting them into squares.
How to Serve Apple Pie Bars
Serve your Apple Pie Bars warm or at room temperature. They can be enjoyed as is or topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra delightful treat. For a beautiful presentation, sprinkle with a dusting of powdered sugar before serving.
How to Store Apple Pie Bars
To keep your Apple Pie Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you wish to keep them for longer, they can be refrigerated for up to a week. To freeze, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil; they will last for up to three months.
Tips to Make Apple Pie Bars
- Choose the Right Apples: Use a mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for a complex flavor.
- Adjust the Sweetness: If your apples are very sweet, reduce the amount of sugar you use in the recipe.
- Add Nuts: For added crunch, consider including chopped walnuts or pecans in the apple mixture.
Variations
Feel free to experiment with this recipe! You can add spices like nutmeg or allspice for extra flavor. Alternatively, try incorporating raisins or cranberries into the apple filling for a unique twist.
FAQs
-
Can I use frozen apples for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen apples, but make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before using them. -
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are ready when they are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. -
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.
Enjoy your baking and the scrumptious taste of these delightful Apple Pie Bars!
Apple Pie Bars
Ingredients
Crust
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 egg egg
Apple Filling
- 3 cups peeled and sliced apples Use a mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for best flavor.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon.
- Add the softened butter and egg to the dry mixture. Mix until the mixture is crumbly.
- Press half of the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form the crust.
- In another bowl, toss together the sliced apples, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Spread the apple mixture evenly over the crust.
- Crumble the remaining dough over the top of the apple layer.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
- Allow the bars to cool in the pan before cutting them into squares.
