There is something truly magical about dessert that wraps the comforting flavors of fall into a single bite, and that is exactly what this Apple Pie Bars Recipe delivers. Imagine tender, cinnamon-spiced apples layered atop a buttery crust, all crowned with a golden, crumbly oat streusel that adds just the right touch of crunch. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a cozy afternoon treat, or a festive celebration, these bars bring warmth and smiles to every occasion. I am so excited to share this wonderful Apple Pie Bars Recipe with you because it’s straightforward to make but tastes like pure homemade love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create these delightful Apple Pie Bars, you’ll only need a handful of simple ingredients that work perfectly together to build a balance of sweetness, texture, and mouthwatering flavor. Each component plays a crucial role—from buttery bases to fresh apples and that irresistible oat topping—making sure every bite is a delight.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup melted): Provides a rich, moist crust that holds everything together beautifully.
- Granulated sugar (1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons): Adds sweetness and helps caramelize the apples.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors with a warm, inviting aroma.
- All-purpose flour (2 1/4 cups total): Forms the foundation of the crust and helps thicken the apple filling.
- Apples (3 large, peeled and thinly sliced): The star of the bars, sweet and tender with a perfect bite.
- Brown sugar (3 tablespoons): Brings a deep, caramel-like richness that complements the cinnamon and nutmeg.
- Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Adds that classic spiced apple flavor everyone loves.
- Ground nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): Gives a subtle warmth that balances the sweetness perfectly.
- Old-fashioned oats (1/2 cup): Creates a crunchy streusel topping that’s irresistibly textured.
How to Make Apple Pie Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, mix melted butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Stir in the flour until the dough comes together, then press it evenly across your pan’s base. Bake for 15 minutes until it’s lightly golden. This buttery crust is the perfect base to support the juicy apples and crumbly topping.
Step 2: Assemble the Apple Layer
While the crust is baking, toss your peeled and thinly sliced apples with both granulated and brown sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a tablespoon of flour. This coating ensures the apples become tender and flavorful without becoming soggy. Once your crust has cooled slightly, spread this apple mixture evenly over the top, laying the foundation of your Apple Pie Bars Recipe.
Step 3: Make the Streusel Topping
In a separate bowl, combine oats, brown sugar, and flour. Stir in melted butter until the mixture turns crumbly. This streusel topping will bake into a crunchy, golden layer that contrasts wonderfully with the soft apples beneath. Sprinkle it generously over the apple layer—it’s the part that makes these bars extra irresistible.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake the bars for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the apples have softened and the streusel topping is perfectly golden. You’ll start to smell the delicious blend of cinnamon and baked apples filling your kitchen, signaling that your Apple Pie Bars Recipe is nearly ready to delight your taste buds!
How to Serve Apple Pie Bars Recipe
Garnishes
Serving these bars warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream instantly elevates the experience, while a dusting of powdered sugar adds a pretty, finishing touch. You can also drizzle caramel sauce over the top for an extra layer of indulgence. Whipped cream is another fantastic option that partners beautifully with the spiced apples.
Side Dishes
Pair these bars with a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or apple cider to bring out their cozy flavor even more. If you’re serving them at brunch or as a dessert after dinner, a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette works nicely to balance the sweetness and add a refreshing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving the Apple Pie Bars Recipe in individual glass jars or dessert cups layered with whipped cream for a charming twist. You can also cut the bars into bite-size squares for a potluck or party, making them easy to enjoy as finger food. Adding a sprinkle of toasted nuts or a cinnamon stick on top can enhance both the look and taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Apple Pie Bars keep beautifully when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want them to last longer, place them in the refrigerator where they will stay fresh for about five days. Just be sure to bring them back to room temperature or warm slightly before serving for the best experience.
Freezing
If you’re planning ahead or want to save some for later, these bars freeze exceptionally well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months, making it easy to enjoy a taste of fall anytime you crave it.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen Apple Pie Bars, thaw them overnight in the fridge, then warm in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 10 minutes to refresh that crisp topping. You can also use a microwave for a quick warm-up, but the oven helps maintain that wonderful texture that makes this Apple Pie Bars Recipe so special.
FAQs
Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! While tart apples like Granny Smith work wonderfully, you can mix in sweeter varieties such as Fuji or Honeycrisp for a more balanced flavor. Just make sure to slice them thinly so they cook evenly.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup the same. Also, ensure your oats are certified gluten-free. This way, you can still enjoy the full deliciousness of the Apple Pie Bars Recipe without gluten.
Can I add nuts to the streusel topping?
Certainly. Chopped walnuts or pecans make a fantastic addition to the streusel, adding a delightful crunch and a hint of nuttiness that complements the apples perfectly.
How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?
Coating the apples with a little flour before layering them on the crust helps absorb extra moisture and keeps the crust from becoming soggy. Also, baking the crust first as directed creates a sturdy base that maintains its crispness.
What is the best way to cut the bars cleanly?
Wait until the bars are completely cooled before cutting. Using a sharp knife, clean it between each cut with a warm, damp towel for neat slices without crumbling.
Final Thoughts
There’s truly something special about the Apple Pie Bars Recipe that makes it a beloved treat—easy to make, bursting with comforting flavors, and versatile enough for any occasion. I hope you’ll give it a try soon and discover for yourself how this humble yet delicious dessert can bring so much joy to your kitchen and to those lucky enough to share it with you.
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Apple Pie Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-50 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious and easy-to-make Apple Pie Bars featuring a buttery crust, spiced apple filling, and a crunchy oat streusel topping. Perfect for dessert or a sweet snack, these bars combine classic apple pie flavors in a convenient, shareable form.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
Apple Filling
- 3 large apples, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
Streusel Topping
- 1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make it easier to remove the bars after baking.
- Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine melted butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir in 2 cups of all-purpose flour until the mixture is fully combined and forms a dough. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Bake the crust for 15 minutes or until it turns lightly golden. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Make the Apple Filling: In a large bowl, toss the peeled and thinly sliced apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and 1 tablespoon of flour. This coating helps to thicken the filling as it bakes. Layer the apple mixture evenly over the baked crust in the pan.
- Prepare the Streusel Topping: In a small bowl, combine oats, brown sugar, and flour. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture becomes crumbly. Sprinkle this oat streusel topping evenly over the apple layer in the baking pan.
- Bake the Bars: Place the assembled pan back into the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the streusel topping is golden brown and crisp.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into squares. Serve and enjoy your delicious apple pie bars!
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a balance of sweet and tart flavors.
- Make sure to cool the bars completely before cutting for cleaner slices.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- For extra flavor, add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the streusel topping.
