Homemade Apple Pie Bars

These apple pie bars combine the warm, spiced flavors of classic apple pie with the convenience of a handheld dessert. With a buttery crust, tender spiced apple filling, and a crisp oat topping, they’re perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a holiday gathering or a simple weeknight treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• All the Flavor of Apple Pie: Classic apple pie taste in an easy-to-serve bar format.
• Perfect Texture: A buttery, tender crust topped with soft spiced apples and a crunchy oat topping.
• Customizable: Use your favorite apple varieties or adjust the spices to your taste.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples and fresh apples.
• Versatile: Great for desserts, snacks, or even a sweet breakfast treat.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Crust

• 2½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 large egg

For the Apple Filling

• 4-5 medium apples, peeled and thinly sliced (Granny Smith and Honeycrisp recommended)
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• Pinch of salt

For the Topping

• ½ cup oats
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

Directions

1. Prepare the Crust

• Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.
• Cut in Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• Add Egg and Vanilla: Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until the dough comes together.
• Press into Pan: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Press about two-thirds of the dough evenly into the bottom of the dish. Set aside the remaining dough for the topping.

2. Prepare the Apple Filling

• Slice the Apples: Peel and thinly slice the apples.
• Mix Filling Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, brown sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. Toss until the apples are well coated.
• Spread Filling Over Crust: Pour the apple filling evenly over the pressed crust in the baking dish.

3. Prepare the Topping

• Mix Topping Ingredients: In another bowl, combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Drizzle the melted butter over the mixture and stir until crumbly.
• Sprinkle on Top: Evenly sprinkle the oat topping over the apple filling.

4. Bake the Bars

• Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the apples are bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
• Cool: Remove from the oven and let the bars cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes before slicing into squares.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 70 minutes

Variations

• Nutty Topping: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the topping for extra crunch.
• Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle caramel sauce over the bars for added sweetness.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend and certified gluten-free oats.
• Spiced Twist: Add cardamom or allspice for a unique flavor profile.
• Sugar-Free: Use a sugar substitute like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Reheating: Enjoy at room temperature or warm in the microwave for 20-30 seconds.
• Freezing: Freeze individual bars wrapped in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

1. What are the best apples for this recipe?

Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are excellent choices for their balance of sweetness and tartness.

2. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and bake the bars a day in advance. Store them covered and serve when ready.

3. Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?

Yes, but the texture will be softer with quick oats.

4. How do I prevent the crust from becoming soggy?

Toss the apples well with the cornstarch to absorb excess moisture.

5. Can I use frozen apples?

Yes, but thaw and drain them thoroughly to avoid excess liquid.

6. Can I double this recipe?

Yes, use a larger pan and adjust the baking time slightly.

7. What can I serve these bars with?

Pair with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat.

8. Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, you can cut back on the brown sugar in the filling and topping without compromising too much flavor.

9. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Yes, but butter provides better flavor and texture.

10. How do I know when the bars are done?

The bars are ready when the topping is golden brown, and the apple filling is bubbly.

Conclusion

These apple pie bars are a deliciously easy way to enjoy all the flavors of apple pie in a portable format. With their buttery crust, spiced apple filling, and crumbly oat topping, they’re perfect for any occasion. Serve warm with ice cream or enjoy on their own for a comforting dessert everyone will love!

Print