Apple Pie Bars

why make this recipe

Apple Pie Bars are a delightful twist on classic apple pie. They are easy to make, offer a rich and delicious flavor, and come in a convenient bar form. These bars make for a perfect dessert to share at gatherings, picnics, or simply to enjoy at home. The combination of tart apples, creamy texture, and the sweet topping makes them irresistible. Plus, they are a great way to use fresh apples in the fall, giving everyone the cozy taste of apple pie without all the fuss of making a traditional pie.

how to make Apple Pie Bars

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 and 1/2 cups chopped peeled tart apples

Topping:

• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon apple pie spice

Directions:

1. In a bowl, cream together the butter and sugar.
2. Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until well mixed.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture to the creamed mixture, alternating with the sour cream. Mix well.
5. Gently fold in the chopped apples.
6. Spoon the mixture into a greased 9-inch square baking pan.
7. In a small bowl, mix the topping ingredients together until well combined.
8. Sprinkle the topping over the batter.
9. Bake at 350°F for 35 to 40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

how to serve Apple Pie Bars

Once your Apple Pie Bars are done baking, let them cool for a few minutes in the pan. Then, cut them into squares or bars. They are delicious served warm on their own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. You could even drizzle some caramel sauce over them for an extra treat. They make a great snack or dessert anytime.

how to store Apple Pie Bars

Store any leftover Apple Pie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Just wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to eat them, thaw in the fridge or at room temperature.

tips to make Apple Pie Bars

• Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
• Choose tart apples like Granny Smith for the best flavor contrast.
• Be careful not to overmix the batter; gently fold in the apples to keep the bars light and fluffy.
• If you want more crunch, you can add additional nuts or even oats to the topping.

variation

You can customize these Apple Pie Bars by adding a mix of other fruits like pears or berries. For a spicier taste, try adding cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter. You can also use different nuts if you prefer, such as walnuts or almonds.

FAQs

Q: Can I use different types of apples?
A: Yes, you can use different apples, but tart apples work best for balance in flavor.

Q: Do I have to use sour cream?
A: Sour cream helps keep the bars moist, but you can substitute it with plain yogurt if needed.

Q: Can I make these bars gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can try using a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour.

Feel free to enjoy these tasty Apple Pie Bars anytime you’re in the mood for a comforting dessert!

Apple Pie Bars

These Apple Pie Bars offer a delightful twist on the classic apple pie, combining tart apples with a creamy texture and a sweet topping in a convenient bar form, perfect for sharing or enjoying at home.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Servings: 9 bars

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 250

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Base Ingredients

• 1/2 cup butter, softened Make sure the butter is at room temperature.
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour Can substitute with gluten-free flour blend.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup sour cream Can substitute with plain yogurt.
• 1.5 cups chopped peeled tart apples Granny Smith works best for flavor.

Topping

• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans Can replace with other nuts like walnuts or almonds.
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon apple pie spice

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar.
2. Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until well mixed.
3. In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture to the creamed mixture, alternating with the sour cream. Mix well.
5. Gently fold in the chopped apples.
6. Spoon the mixture into a greased 9-inch square baking pan.
7. In a small bowl, mix the topping ingredients together until well combined.
8. Sprinkle the topping over the batter.

Baking

1. Bake at 350°F for 35 to 40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Serving

1. Once baked, let the Apple Pie Bars cool for a few minutes in the pan before cutting into squares or bars.
2. Serve warm on their own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzle with caramel sauce.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge or at room temperature.