Apple Pie Bars are a delightful twist on the classic dessert. These bars capture the essence of homemade apple pie with a buttery shortbread crust, sweet and spiced apple filling, and a crumbly streusel topping. They are perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or as a sweet treat any day of the week. With their easy-to-handle format, Apple Pie Bars make indulgence simple and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of cinnamon-spiced apples and buttery streusel creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
- Easy to Prepare: This recipe simplifies the pie-making process into convenient bars without compromising on taste.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual get-together, these bars are sure to impress guests.
- Make Ahead Friendly: Apple Pie Bars can be baked in advance and stored for later enjoyment, making them ideal for meal prep.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them warm with ice cream or cold with coffee; they fit perfectly into any serving scenario.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Parchment paper (or butter for greasing)
- Mixing bowls (large and small)
- Mixer (handheld or stand)
- Pastry blender (optional)
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- 9×13-inch baking pan: The ideal size for baking these bars evenly without overcrowding.
- Mixer: Helps achieve a light and fluffy texture for the butter and sugar mixture effortlessly.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes clean-up a breeze, so you can enjoy your dessert without hassle.
Ingredients
To make these scrumptious Apple Pie Bars, you’ll need the following ingredients:
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
How to Make Apple Pie Bars
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan
Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Alternatively, grease it lightly with butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Make the Shortbread Crust
- In a large mixing bowl, beat 3/4 cup softened butter with 1/2 cup granulated sugar. Mix until light and fluffy using your mixer or by hand.
- In another bowl, combine 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 tsp. cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
- Gradually mix this dry mixture into the butter mixture until well combined.
- Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish, pressing it down firmly along the edges.
Step 3: Bake the Crust
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15 minutes while preparing the apple filling.
Step 4: Prepare the Apple Filling
In a separate bowl:
1. Combine sliced apples with 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 3 tbsp. all-purpose flour, and 1 tsp. cinnamon. Mix well and set aside.
Step 5: Make the Streusel Topping
- In another large mixing bowl, combine 3/4 cup rolled oats, 3/4 cup brown sugar, 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, and 1/2 tsp. cinnamon.
- Cut in 1/2 cup cold cubed butter, using your hands or a pastry blender until you achieve coarse crumbs.
Step 6: Assemble the Bars
After allowing the crust to cool slightly:
1. Spread the apple filling over it evenly.
2. Sprinkle the streusel topping on top of the apple mixture, pressing down gently.
Step 7: Bake Again
Return to oven at 350°F for an additional 45 minutes until golden brown.
Step 8: Cool Before Serving
Let cool completely before cutting into squares to serve your delicious Apple Pie Bars! Enjoy!
How to Serve Apple Pie Bars
Apple Pie Bars are a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer them warm or chilled, there are plenty of serving options to enhance their deliciousness.
Warm with Ice Cream
- Serve warm Apple Pie Bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic pairing. The ice cream melts slightly, adding a creamy texture to each bite.
Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- Add a drizzle of caramel sauce over the top for an extra sweet touch. This complements the cinnamon and apple flavors beautifully.
Topped with Whipped Cream
- Lightly dollop some whipped cream on top for a light and airy finish. It adds a lovely contrast to the rich streusel topping.
Served with Coffee or Tea
- Enjoy your Apple Pie Bars alongside a cup of coffee or tea. The warmth of the beverage pairs perfectly with the spiced flavors of the bars.
Chilled with Fresh Fruit
- Serve chilled bars with fresh fruit like berries or slices of pear. This adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the dessert.
Packed in Lunchboxes
- Cut the bars into smaller squares and pack them in lunchboxes for a sweet treat that’s easy to enjoy on-the-go.
How to Perfect Apple Pie Bars
Making perfect Apple Pie Bars is all about the details. Here are some tips to ensure your bars are scrumptious every time.
- Choose the right apples: Use tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for balance against sweetness.
- Don’t skip chilling your butter: Cold butter helps create a flakier streusel topping when mixed in properly.
- Layer evenly: Spread your apple filling evenly over the crust for consistent flavor and texture throughout.
- Bake until golden brown: Keep an eye on baking time; a golden brown topping indicates it’s ready.
- Let cool completely: Allowing bars to cool fully makes cutting easier and improves texture.
- Store properly: Keep leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
Best Side Dishes for Apple Pie Bars
Pairing side dishes with your Apple Pie Bars can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic choice that adds creaminess and richness to your dessert.
- Caramel Sauce: A sweet addition that enhances the apple flavor and brings out the warmth of spices.
- Fresh Berries: Strawberries or blueberries add a refreshing, tart contrast that complements sweetness.
- Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, whipped cream provides a nice textural balance to dense bars.
- Coffee: A warm cup of coffee adds depth and intensity, making it a perfect companion for dessert.
- Hot Tea: Herbal or chai tea can add warmth and spice that aligns well with cinnamon notes in the bars.
- Cheese Plate: Pairing with mild cheeses can create an interesting savory contrast against sweet flavors.
- Nuts: Roasted almonds or walnuts can provide crunchiness, complementing chewy textures in the bars.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Apple Pie Bars can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Overmixing the crust: This can make the crust tough. Mix just until combined for a tender base.
- Using unripe apples: They won’t provide the sweet flavor you want. Always choose ripe, flavorful apples for the best results.
- Not cooling the crust: If you add the filling to a hot crust, it can become soggy. Allow the crust to cool slightly before adding the apple mixture.
- Skipping the streusel topping: This adds both texture and flavor. Don’t skip it—ensure it’s generously sprinkled on top!
- Cutting bars too soon: If you cut them while they’re warm, they may fall apart. Let them cool completely to achieve perfect squares.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Apple Pie Bars in an airtight container in the fridge.
- They will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
Freezing Apple Pie Bars
- Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place them in a freezer-safe container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Apple Pie Bars
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat bars for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat one bar at a time for 20-30 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place a bar in a skillet over low heat, covering it until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Apple Pie Bars.
How do I prevent my Apple Pie Bars from getting soggy?
To prevent sogginess, ensure your crust is baked until lightly golden before adding the apple filling. Also, consider using apples that have lower moisture content.
Can I use different types of apples for Apple Pie Bars?
Yes! Mixing varieties like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp can add depth of flavor and texture. Experiment with your favorites!
How long do Apple Pie Bars last?
Stored properly in an airtight container, they last about 5 days in the refrigerator and up to 3 months in the freezer.
What can I serve with Apple Pie Bars?
Apple Pie Bars pair well with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or caramel sauce for added indulgence.
Are these bars suitable for special diets?
You can customize them by using gluten-free flour or reducing sugar if needed, making them versatile for various dietary needs.
Final Thoughts
Apple Pie Bars are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with various spices or toppings based on your taste preferences. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving something sweet, these bars are sure to please!
Apple Pie Bars
Apple Pie Bars are a delightful and convenient twist on the beloved classic dessert. With a buttery shortbread crust, sweet cinnamon-spiced apple filling, and a crunchy streusel topping, these bars capture all the flavors of homemade apple pie in an easy-to-handle format. Perfect for any occasion—family gatherings, potlucks, or simply as a weekday treat—these Apple Pie Bars make indulgence simple and satisfying. Bake them ahead of time and serve warm with ice cream or enjoy them chilled with coffee for a deliciously versatile dessert that everyone will love.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 8 cups apples, peeled and thinly sliced
- 3/4 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, divided
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 3/4 cup rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- For the crust: Beat softened butter and 1/2 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Combine flour, cinnamon, and salt; gradually mix into the butter until blended. Press into the prepared pan and bake for 15 minutes.
- For the filling: In a bowl, mix sliced apples with remaining granulated sugar, flour, and cinnamon.
- For the streusel: Combine oats, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon in another bowl; cut in cold cubed butter until crumbly.
- After the crust cools slightly, layer apple mixture on top followed by streusel topping. Bake for an additional 45 minutes or until golden.
- Allow cooling completely before slicing into squares.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 95mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
