why make this recipe
Apple Pie Bars are a delicious and convenient way to enjoy the classic flavors of apple pie without the fuss of making a traditional pie. These bars are easy to handle, perfect for sharing, and offer a delightful mix of sweet and tart apples, all wrapped in a buttery crust. Whether for dessert, a potluck, or simply a treat at home, Apple Pie Bars are sure to please everyone.
how to make Apple Pie Bars
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups sliced apples
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon. Stir in softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press half of the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- In another bowl, toss the sliced apples with lemon juice, cornstarch, and vanilla extract. Spread the apple mixture over the crust.
- Crumble the remaining dough over the apples.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
- Allow to cool before slicing into bars.
- To make the glaze, mix powdered sugar and milk until smooth, then drizzle over the cooled bars.
how to serve Apple Pie Bars
Apple Pie Bars are great by themselves, but you can serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence. They also taste wonderful warm or at room temperature.
how to store Apple Pie Bars
To store Apple Pie Bars, place them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for a few days or in the refrigerator for about a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months.
tips to make Apple Pie Bars
- Make sure to use good quality apples for the best flavor. Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples work well.
- If you like a bit more spice, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the apple mixture.
- Don’t skip the cooling step; letting the bars cool makes them easier to cut and helps the flavors meld.
variation
For a different twist, you can add nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the crumble topping. You can also try using different fruits like peaches or berries in place of apples for a seasonal update.
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought pie crust instead of making the crumble?
Yes, you can use a store-bought pie crust as a base for these bars. Just make sure to follow the package instructions for baking.
2. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, Apple Pie Bars can be made a day in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator and bring them to room temperature before serving.
3. What type of apples are best for Apple Pie Bars?
Firm and tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are the best choices as they hold their shape well when baked and provide a nice contrast to the sweetness.
Apple Pie Bars
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon. Stir in the softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press half of the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- In another bowl, toss the sliced apples with lemon juice, cornstarch, and vanilla extract. Spread the apple mixture over the crust.
- Crumble the remaining dough over the apples.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
- Allow to cool before slicing into bars.
- To make the glaze, mix powdered sugar and milk until smooth, then drizzle over the cooled bars.
