Apple Pie Bars

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that captures the essence of fall and brings family together, then you’re in for a treat with these Apple Pie Bars! This recipe is one of my absolute favorites because it combines all the comforting flavors of apple pie but in an easy-to-manage bar form. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, these bars are perfect for any occasion. They make the house smell amazing while baking, and trust me, they disappear fast!

These Apple Pie Bars are not just delicious; they are also super versatile and can be enjoyed warm with a scoop of your favorite non-dairy ice cream or at room temperature, making them ideal for sharing. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, anyone can whip up these bars in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves apple pie, and these bars are no exception. Kids will enjoy them as much as adults!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: These Apple Pie Bars can be baked ahead of time, making them perfect for meal prep or last-minute gatherings.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet apples and buttery streusel topping creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Be it picnics, potlucks, or cozy nights at home, these bars fit right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some wholesome ingredients to create our delicious Apple Pie Bars! These items are simple and often found in your pantry. You’ll appreciate how easy it is to bring this scrumptious treat to life.

For the Apple Filling

• 8 cups apples, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 3 tbsp. all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp. cinnamon

For the Shortbread Crust

• 3/4 cup butter, softened at room temperature
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• Pinch salt

For the Streusel Topping

• 3/4 cup rolled oats (quick oats)
• 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed

Variations

One of the best things about these Apple Pie Bars is how flexible they are! If you want to add your twist or cater to different tastes, here are some fun ideas:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Mix in Dried Fruit: Add raisins or cranberries for a chewiness that complements the apples beautifully.
• Change the Spice: Experiment with nutmeg or ginger alongside cinnamon for a spicier kick.
• Use Different Fruits: Swap out half of the apples for pears or berries to create a mixed fruit bar.

How to Make Apple Pie Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish

Start by lining a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly greasing it with butter. This step ensures that your bars come out easily after baking, making serving a breeze.

Step 2: Make the Shortbread Crust

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This creates a tender base for your bars. In another bowl, mix together all-purpose flour, cinnamon, and salt before gradually adding this dry mixture into your butter mixture. Once combined, transfer it to your prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly across the bottom and press down firmly—this forms that yummy crust we love.

Step 3: Bake the Crust

Pop your crust into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15 minutes. This initial bake gives the crust a nice golden color and sets it up perfectly for holding all those delicious apple fillings.

Step 4: Prepare the Apple Filling

While your crust is baking, take this time to prepare your apple filling! In a large bowl, mix together the sliced apples with granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, and cinnamon. This not only sweetens up our apples but also helps thicken any juices that might come out during baking.

Step 5: Make the Streusel Topping

In another mixing bowl, combine quick oats with brown sugar, all-purpose flour, and cinnamon. Then cut in cold cubed butter using clean hands or a pastry blender until you achieve that coarse crumb texture—this will create our crunchy topping!

Step 6: Assemble It All Together

Once your crust has cooled slightly after coming out of the oven, spread the apple mixture over it evenly. Then sprinkle that beautiful streusel topping on top! Lightly press down on it to ensure everything sticks together while baking.

Step 7: Bake Again

Return your delicious creation back into that same 350°F oven for about 45 minutes until everything is bubbly and golden brown on top. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Allow your Apple Pie Bars to cool completely before cutting them into squares. This cooling time helps everything set nicely so each bar holds its shape when served—perfect for sharing with friends and family!

Enjoy every bite of these delightful Apple Pie Bars!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Pie Bars

Making Apple Pie Bars is a delightful experience, and with a few pro tips, you can take your baking to the next level!

• Choose the right apples: Opt for a mix of tart and sweet apples, like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. This blend will give your filling a balanced flavor that’s both refreshing and comforting.

• Don’t skip the chilling: If you have time, let the crust chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before baking. Chilling helps it hold its shape better during baking and results in a flakier texture.

• Cut evenly: When slicing your apples, do your best to keep them uniform in thickness. This ensures they cook evenly and gives you that perfect bite every time.

• Make ahead: These bars store well! Bake them in advance and keep them in an airtight container. They’ll be perfect for snacking or as a sweet treat to share with friends.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the apple filling for an extra depth of flavor. It can elevate the taste and make your bars unique.

How to Serve Apple Pie Bars

Apple Pie Bars are not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some fun ideas on how to present this scrumptious dessert!

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream adds a light, airy touch that wonderfully complements the rich flavors of the bars.
• Caramel drizzle: A drizzle of caramel sauce on top elevates the sweetness and adds a beautiful presentation element.
• Cinnamon sugar sprinkle: A light dusting of cinnamon sugar over the top before serving can enhance both flavor and appearance.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with warm Apple Pie Bars, creating a classic dessert experience.
• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the bars and adds a pop of color to your plate.
• Yogurt parfait: Layer some yogurt with granola and fresh fruits for a light side that contrasts nicely with the richness of the bars.
• Cheese platter: Serve alongside some mild cheeses like brie or gouda for a savory counterpoint that rounds out your dessert table perfectly.

Whether you’re enjoying these Apple Pie Bars at home or sharing them with loved ones, these suggestions will surely make your dessert experience special!

Make Ahead and Storage

Apple Pie Bars are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time, and they store beautifully, making them an excellent treat for busy days or gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cooled Apple Pie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate them for up to a week.
• If you notice the bars getting soft, consider placing parchment paper between layers to keep them from sticking together.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the Apple Pie Bars cool completely.
• Cut them into squares and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped bars in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen bars overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• To warm up, place them on a baking sheet and heat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.
• Enjoy them warm with a scoop of your favorite non-dairy ice cream!

FAQs

Got questions? Don’t worry; I’ve got answers! Here are some common queries about Apple Pie Bars:

Can I use other fruits besides apples in these bars?

Absolutely! While this recipe is focused on Apple Pie Bars, you can substitute or add other fruits like pears or berries for a delightful twist.

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

The Apple Pie Bars are done when the topping is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbly. A gentle press should reveal that the crust is firm yet tender.

Can I make Apple Pie Bars gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these bars gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.

How long do Apple Pie Bars last in the refrigerator?

When stored properly, Apple Pie Bars can last up to a week in the refrigerator. Just make sure they’re sealed well!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delicious Apple Pie Bars as much as I do! With their comforting flavors and delightful textures, they are sure to become a favorite dessert for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to share your experience or any creative twists you try with this recipe. Happy baking!