Apple Pie Bars

Apple Pie Bars are a delightful twist on the classic apple pie, offering all the gooey sweetness of apples and warm spices, but in a convenient bar form. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying a cozy night at home, these bars are sure to be a hit!

Why make this recipe?

These Apple Pie Bars are not only delicious but also super easy to make. They capture the comforting flavors of apple pie, making them perfect for any occasion. Plus, they’re mess-free—no pie crust to roll out, just cut them into squares and serve. They’re great for potlucks, picnics, or a sweet treat for family and friends. 🍏🥧

How to prepare Apple Pie Bars

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour 🥣
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar 🥄
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 🧂
• 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced 🧈
• 1/4 cup brown sugar 🍬
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 🌰
• 3 cups apples, peeled, cored, and chopped 🍎
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice 🍋
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg 🌿
• 1/2 cup oats 🌾

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the flour, sugar, and salt. 😋
3. Add the chilled butter and mix until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Press half of this mixture into the bottom of a greased baking pan.
5. In another bowl, combine brown sugar, cinnamon, chopped apples, lemon juice, and nutmeg. Mix well. 🍏❤️
6. Spread the apple mixture over the crust evenly.
7. Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over the apples, followed by the oats.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Let it cool before slicing into bars.

How to serve Apple Pie Bars

Serve Apple Pie Bars warm or at room temperature, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top. They make for a perfect dessert or afternoon snack! 🍦

How to store Apple Pie Bars

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them; just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to three months. ❄️

Tips for preparing Apple Pie Bars

• Make sure the butter is chilled for a flakier crust.
• Use a variety of apples for a more complex flavor—mix tart and sweet apples for balance.
• Let the bars cool completely before cutting to ensure clean slices. 📏

Variations

Consider adding nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for crunch. You can also experiment with spices like ginger or cloves for a spicier kick. If you prefer, add a drizzle of caramel sauce on top for an extra treat! 🍯

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought pie crust?
Yes! If you’re short on time, you can use a store-bought pie crust instead of making the crumb mixture from scratch.

2. What apples are best for apple pie bars?
Good options include Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji apples, as they hold up well during baking and provide a balanced flavor.

3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a gluten-free version of these Apple Pie Bars.

With these simple steps, you can enjoy delicious Apple Pie Bars that are sure to bring joy to your table! 🍏💚