Apple Pie Bars

The moment I first tasted Apple Pie Bars, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. It was during a cozy family gathering in the fall, with the scent of cinnamon and baked apples wafting through the air. I can still hear the laughter of my loved ones as we gathered around the table, eager to devour this delightful dessert. These bars are the perfect blend of buttery crust, spiced apples, and a crumbly topping that makes them irresistible. Each bite takes me back to those warm, nostalgic moments, reminding me of the joy of sharing delicious food with family and friends.

What to Gather for Apple Pie Bars

The ingredients for Apple Pie Bars are simple yet essential for achieving that classic flavor. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of taste and texture. The key players here include unsalted butter, all-purpose flour, and, of course, the star of the show—Granny Smith apples. Together, they harmonize to deliver a mouthwatering experience that captures the essence of apple pie.

• 1½ cups (3 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature: This rich ingredient provides a buttery flavor and tender texture.
• ¾ cup granulated white sugar: This sweetness balances the tartness of the apples.
• 3 cups all-purpose flour: The base for the crust and topping, giving structure and a flaky texture.
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth to the flavor.
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Enhances the spiced flavor profile.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces: Used in the topping for richness.
• ½ cup packed light brown sugar: Adds a deep caramel flavor.
• 6 pounds (about 12) Granny Smith apples (peeled, cored, and thinly sliced): The main attraction, providing tartness and texture.
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: An essential spice for the apple filling.
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Complements the cinnamon perfectly.
• ½ cup water (as necessary): Helps create a soft filling.
• 3 cups quick cooking oats: Adds texture and a chewy topping.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: Further helps create the crumbly topping.
• 1½ cups packed light brown sugar: Adds sweetness and richness to the topping.
• 1¼ teaspoons ground cinnamon: Intensifies the flavor of the topping.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda: Helps the topping rise slightly.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances flavors in the topping.
• 1½ cups (3 sticks) unsalted butter, cut into cubes and chilled: Creates a crumbly topping texture.

How to Cook Apple Pie Bars

Making Apple Pie Bars is a rewarding experience. The process combines mixing, baking, and layering to create a delicious dessert that will impress everyone. Let’s dive into the steps to craft this delightful treat!

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-by-17-inch rimmed baking sheet or jelly roll pan with parchment paper. This will ensure your bars come out easily and don’t stick to the pan.
2. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat unsalted butter with granulated white sugar at medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. The texture of the butter will change, becoming creamy and pale.
3. Reduce the mixer speed to low and gradually beat in all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and kosher salt until a soft dough forms. You’re looking for a dough that holds together but is not too sticky.
4. Press the dough evenly over the bottom of the prepared pan and ½ inch up the sides to form a crust. Use your fingers to ensure it’s evenly distributed.
5. Bake the crust in the center of the oven for about 15 minutes, or until it turns golden and is set. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-browning. Once done, let it cool on a rack.
6. Meanwhile, in a very large, deep skillet, melt the remaining unsalted butter with light brown sugar. If your skillet is smaller, you may have to divide the mixture between two skillets.
7. Add the thinly sliced Granny Smith apples to the skillet and cook over high heat, stirring occasionally, until they are softened, about 10 minutes. The apples should begin to soften and release their juices.
8. Stir in the ground cinnamon and ground nutmeg, cooking for an additional 10 minutes until the apples are caramelized and very tender. If needed, scrape any bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet, adding up to ½ cup of water to prevent scorching.
9. Let the apple filling cool while you prepare the topping. In a large bowl, combine quick cooking oats, all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, baking soda, and kosher salt. Stir to mix everything well.
10. Using your fingers (make sure to wash your hands and remove any rings), squeeze the chilled unsalted butter into the oats and sugar mixture. Crumble it together until it resembles coarse meal. This step will give your topping a nice texture.
11. Spread the apple filling evenly over the cooled crust. Scatter the crumble topping over the apples, pressing it lightly into an even layer. Make sure to cover all the filling.
12. Bake the assembled bars in the center of the oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown. Rotate the pan halfway through to ensure even baking, and keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn’t get too dark.
13. Let the bars cool completely on a rack before cutting into 2-inch squares. This step is crucial to allow the filling to set up properly.

Ways to Customize

There are so many fun ways to customize Apple Pie Bars. Whether you want to tweak the flavors or add unique ingredients, here are some exciting options to consider.

• Add Nuts: Incorporate chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts into the topping for added crunch.
• Use Different Apples: Experiment with different varieties of apples for a unique flavor. Mixing sweet and tart apples can create a delicious balance.
• Incorporate Dried Fruits: Adding raisins or dried cranberries can enhance the flavor and add a chewy texture.
• Spice Variations: Consider adding a pinch of ground ginger or allspice for a different twist on the traditional spices.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary restrictions.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve warm with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an indulgent treat.
• Storage: Keep any leftovers stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days.

How to Enjoy Apple Pie Bars

• As a Dessert: Apple Pie Bars make a fantastic dessert after a hearty meal. Their sweet and spiced flavor pairs well with many main courses.
• Snack Time: Enjoy them as a sweet snack during the day. They’re easy to grab and satisfy those afternoon cravings.
• Holiday Gatherings: These bars are perfect for Thanksgiving or other fall festivities. They’re sure to impress your guests!
• Pairing Suggestions: Serve with a side of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream to elevate your dessert experience.
• Storage Tips: Store any leftover bars in an airtight container. They stay fresh for about four days at room temperature or can be frozen for up to a month.
• Seasonal Treat: Perfect for the fall season, these bars capture the essence of autumn and are a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of the season.

FAQ

Conclusion

Apple Pie Bars truly capture the essence of fall with their sweet, spiced flavor and comforting texture. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them as an afternoon snack, they’re sure to bring joy to any occasion. Don’t hesitate—try making these delicious bars tonight, and share the love of homemade treats with those around you!

Apple Pie Bars

The ultimate comfort food, Apple Pie Bars combine tender, spiced Granny Smith apples with a buttery crust and crumbly topping. Perfect for any fall gathering, these easy-to-make bars are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Try them tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 50 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 50 minutes mins

Servings: 48 bars

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: American

Calories: 250

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1.5 cups unsalted butter at room temperature
• 0.75 cups granulated white sugar
• 3 cups all purpose flour
• 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 0.25 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter cut into pieces
• 0.5 cups light brown sugar packed
• 6 pounds Granny Smith apples (peeled, cored and thinly sliced)
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 0.25 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 0.5 cups water as necessary
• 3 cups quick cooking oats
• 2 cups all purpose flour
• 1.5 cups light brown sugar packed
• 1.25 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
• 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1.5 cups unsalted butter cut into cubes and chilled

Equipment

• Frying Pan
• Baking Sheet
• Peeler
• Wooden Spoon
• Skillet
• Mixing Bowl
• Chef's Knife
• Oven

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-by-17-inch rimmed baking sheet or jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat unsalted butter with granulated white sugar at medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
3. Reduce the mixer speed to low and gradually beat in all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and kosher salt until a soft dough forms.
4. Press the dough evenly over the bottom of the prepared pan and ½ inch up the sides to form a crust.
5. Bake the crust in the center of the oven for about 15 minutes, or until golden and set. Let cool on a rack.
6. Meanwhile, in a very large, deep skillet, melt the remaining unsalted butter with light brown sugar.
7. Add the thinly sliced Granny Smith apples to the skillet and cook over high heat, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 10 minutes.
8. Stir in the ground cinnamon and ground nutmeg, cooking for an additional 10 minutes until caramelized and very tender.
9. Let the apple filling cool while you prepare the topping. In a large bowl, combine quick cooking oats, all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, baking soda, and kosher salt.
10. Using your fingers, squeeze the chilled unsalted butter into the oats and sugar mixture. Crumble it together until it resembles coarse meal.
11. Spread the apple filling evenly over the cooled crust. Scatter the crumble topping over the apples.
12. Bake the assembled bars for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown. Let cool completely on a rack before cutting into 2-inch squares.

Notes

• Using the Right Pan: The 12x17-inch rimmed baking sheet (half sheet pan) works best for this recipe. If you don’t have one, you can use smaller pans.
• Feeding a Crowd: This recipe makes a large quantity, so make sure you have plenty of people to share it with!
• Storage: The bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 4 days or frozen for up to a month.