Apple bars are the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of apple pie in a more casual, portable form. They’re quick to make, require simple ingredients, and can be customized with nuts, raisins, or icing. Great for potlucks, school lunches, or an afternoon coffee break, these bars are a tasty and comforting treat that’s easy to prepare and serve.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Apples, peeled and chopped
All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Ground cinnamon
Ground nutmeg
Salt
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Unsalted butter, melted
Eggs
Vanilla extract
Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
In a separate bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
Fold in the chopped apples (and nuts if using).
Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking pan.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the bars cool in the pan before slicing and serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 16 bars. Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 35 minutes Total time: 50 minutes
Variations
Add a glaze: Drizzle a simple powdered sugar glaze over the cooled bars for extra sweetness.
Spiced apple bars: Add a pinch of cloves or ginger for a deeper spice flavor.
Fruit mix-ins: Mix in dried cranberries or raisins with the apples.
Nutty twist: Use pecans or almonds instead of walnuts.
Apple variety: Try using a mix of tart and sweet apples for a more complex flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Store apple bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 1 week. To freeze, wrap the bars individually and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To reheat, microwave for 10–15 seconds or warm in a low oven until heated through.
FAQs
What kind of apples work best for apple bars?
Tart apples like Granny Smith are great for structure, but a mix with sweeter varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp adds balanced flavor.
Can I use apple pie filling instead of fresh apples?
Yes, but reduce the sugar in the recipe to balance the sweetness of the filling.
Can I make apple bars gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
Are apple bars supposed to be soft or crispy?
They should be soft and moist, similar to cake or soft brownies.
Can I use oil instead of butter?
Yes, vegetable oil or coconut oil can be used, though the flavor and texture will vary slightly.
How do I know when the apple bars are done?
Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they’re ready.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double the ingredients and bake in two pans or one large sheet pan, adjusting baking time as needed.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely. They taste great the next day and can be stored or frozen for later.
What can I serve apple bars with?
They pair well with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Why did my apple bars turn out too dry?
Overbaking or using too few apples can dry them out. Check doneness a few minutes early and use juicy apples.
Conclusion
Apple bars are a versatile, flavorful treat perfect for any occasion. With their soft texture, warm spices, and chunks of sweet apple, they offer the comfort of homemade dessert in an easy-to-serve form. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or simply want a cozy snack, these bars are sure to impress.
These apple bars are a moist, spiced dessert filled with chopped apples and warm flavors, offering the comforting taste of apple pie in an easy-to-serve bar form. Perfect for snacks, desserts, or even breakfast.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:35 minutes
Total Time:50 minutes
Yield:16 bars
Category:Dessert
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
2 cups peeled and chopped apples
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
In a separate bowl, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
Fold in the chopped apples and optional nuts.
Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking pan.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the bars cool in the pan before slicing and serving.
Notes
Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for balanced flavor.Add a powdered sugar glaze for extra sweetness.Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature.Can be frozen for up to 2 months; reheat before serving.Make gluten-free by using 1:1 gluten-free flour.
