Apple Pie Bars are a delightful dessert that combines the classic taste of apple pie with the ease of bar format. These bars feature a buttery shortbread crust, tender apples, and a sweet streusel topping, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a family gathering, a potluck, or simply a cozy night in, Apple Pie Bars are sure to impress everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of spiced apples and crunchy streusel creates a delicious treat that captures the essence of traditional apple pie.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and easy-to-find ingredients, these bars are perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Versatile Dessert: Serve them warm with ice cream or at room temperature; they make for an excellent dessert any time of year.
- Make Ahead Option: Prepare these Apple Pie Bars in advance, and enjoy them throughout the week. They store well in an airtight container!
- Crowd-Pleaser: With 32 servings per batch, these bars are ideal for sharing at parties and gatherings.
Tools and Preparation
To make Apple Pie Bars successfully, you’ll need some essential tools. Here’s what you should gather before starting your baking adventure.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Baking pan (9×13-inch)
- Parchment paper or butter for greasing
- Pastry blender or clean hands for mixing
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing Bowls: A good set of mixing bowls allows you to prepare multiple components without mess.
- Baking Pan: A sturdy 9×13-inch baking pan ensures even cooking for your Apple Pie Bars.
- Parchment Paper: Using parchment paper makes it easier to lift out the bars after baking and simplifies cleanup.
Ingredients
Apple Pie Bars have all of the deliciousness of apple pie with a layer of shortbread crust, thinly sliced apples, and a soft streusel topping.
For the Crust:
- 8 cups apples, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tbsp. all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp. cinnamon
For the Shortbread Base:
- 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: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it is hot enough when you’re ready to bake your bars.
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
- Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together 3/4 cup softened butter and 1/2 cup granulated sugar. Continue until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- 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.
- Transfer this crust mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Press down firmly on the edges.
- Bake in your preheated oven for about 15 minutes until lightly golden.
Step 3: Prepare the Apple Filling
While the crust is baking:
1. In a large bowl, stir together the prepared 8 cups sliced apples, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 3 tbsp. flour, and 1 tsp cinnamon. Set aside to allow flavors to meld.
Step 4: Make the Streusel Topping
In another mixing bowl:
1. Combine 3/4 cup quick oats, 3/4 cup packed brown sugar, 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, and 1/2 tsp cinnamon.
2. Cut in the cold, cubed butter using clean hands or a pastry blender until crumbly.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
- Once your crust has cooled slightly after baking, spread the apple filling evenly over it.
- Evenly sprinkle your streusel topping over the apple mixture and press down lightly.
- Return to oven and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Allow cooling completely before cutting into squares to serve.
Enjoy your homemade Apple Pie Bars as they bring warmth and joy to every bite!
How to Serve Apple Pie Bars
Apple Pie Bars are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways to enhance their flavor and presentation. Whether for a party or a cozy family dessert, these bars can be paired with different toppings and accompaniments.
With Vanilla Ice Cream
- A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a rich and cool contrast to the warm apple pie bars.
Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- Pouring warm caramel sauce over each bar provides an extra layer of sweetness and indulgence.
Topped with Whipped Cream
- Light and airy whipped cream makes for a classic topping that complements the spices in the apple filling.
Served with Fresh Fruit
- Accompanying your bars with fresh slices of apples or berries enhances the fruitiness and freshness of the dessert.
Paired with Coffee or Tea
- Enjoying apple pie bars with a cup of coffee or tea can elevate your dessert experience, making it perfect for afternoon gatherings.
As Part of a Dessert Platter
- Include them on a dessert platter alongside other treats like brownies or cookies for a delightful variety at your next event.
How to Perfect Apple Pie Bars
To achieve the best results when making Apple Pie Bars, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure that your bars turn out perfectly every time.
- Choose the right apples: Varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp offer the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.
- Slice apples thinly: This ensures even cooking and tender bites throughout your bars.
- Don’t skip chilling the butter: Cold butter helps create a flaky streusel topping; make sure it’s cubed before mixing.
- Let them cool completely: Allowing the bars to cool helps them set properly, making them easier to cut into squares without falling apart.
- Add nuts for crunch: Consider adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to your streusel topping for added texture and flavor.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to add nutmeg or allspice along with cinnamon for more depth in flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Apple Pie Bars
Pairing side dishes with your Apple Pie Bars can create a more satisfying meal. Here are some delicious options that complement this dessert beautifully.
- Cheese Plate: A selection of sharp cheeses pairs wonderfully, contrasting the sweetness of the bars.
- Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette offers freshness that balances the richness of the pie bars.
- Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness harmonizes well with the flavors in apple pie bars.
- Pumpkin Soup: A warm bowl of pumpkin soup provides a comforting contrast to the dessert’s texture.
- Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips: These sweet chips can be fun to dip into caramel sauce alongside your apple pie bars.
- Roasted Vegetables: The savory flavors from roasted veggies create an interesting balance with sweet desserts.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Apple Pie Bars can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes that can hinder your results.
- Ignoring apple variety: Not all apples are created equal. Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for better flavor.
- Overmixing the crust: Mixing too much can make the crust tough. Mix until just combined for a tender shortbread base.
- Skipping the cooling time: Cutting bars before they cool can lead to messy squares. Allow them to cool completely for clean cuts.
- Not measuring accurately: Improper measurements can ruin the texture. Use kitchen scales or measuring cups for precision.
- Underestimating baking times: Each oven is different. Keep an eye on your bars and adjust baking times as needed to avoid sogginess.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Apple Pie Bars will last up to 5 days in the fridge.
Freezing Apple Pie Bars
- Wrap bars tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Apple Pie Bars
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat individual bars in 15-20 second intervals until warm.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for a few minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making Apple Pie Bars, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.
What apples are best for Apple Pie Bars?
For the best flavor, use a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples. This combination gives a nice balance of sweetness and tartness.
Can I make Apple Pie Bars ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare them a day in advance. Just store them properly in the refrigerator, and they will still taste delicious.
How do I know when my Apple Pie Bars are done?
The top should be golden brown, and if you insert a toothpick into the center, it should come out clean with no wet batter.
Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free flour or add nuts and raisins for extra flavor. Customize your recipe to suit your preferences!
Final Thoughts
Apple Pie Bars offer the comforting flavors of traditional apple pie in an easy-to-serve format. Their versatility allows you to customize with various spices or toppings, making them perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe today and enjoy these delicious treats with family and friends!
Apple Pie Bars
Apple Pie Bars are a delightful twist on the classic apple pie, offering all the comfort of the original dessert in a convenient bar format. With a buttery shortbread crust, tender cinnamon-spiced apples, and a crunchy streusel topping, these bars are perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in. Easy to make with simple ingredients, they are not only delicious but also versatile; serve them warm with vanilla ice cream or at room temperature for an afternoon treat. Plus, with 32 servings per batch, they are ideal for sharing at gatherings. Prepare these Apple Pie Bars ahead of time and store them for a sweet snack throughout the week!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 32 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 8 cups apples (peeled and thinly sliced)
- 3/4 cup butter (softened)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar (divided)
- 3/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 3/4 cup rolled oats
- Spices: cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the shortbread crust by mixing softened butter and sugar until fluffy; combine flour and cinnamon, then mix into the butter mixture.
- Press the crust into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan and bake for 15 minutes.
- Mix sliced apples with granulated sugar, flour, and cinnamon; set aside.
- For the streusel topping, combine oats, brown sugar, flour, and cold cubed butter until crumbly.
- Spread apple filling over cooled crust and top with streusel; bake for an additional 45 minutes until golden.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
