Easy Apple Pie Bars: A Simple and Delicious Twist on a Classic Dessert

Apple Pie Bars are a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that captures all the comforting flavors of a traditional apple pie but in a convenient, handheld form. The buttery, flaky pastry crust pairs beautifully with the sweet and spiced apple filling, while a sprinkle of turbinado sugar on top adds a lovely crunch and caramelized finish. These bars are perfect for fall gatherings, holidays, or anytime you crave the taste of apple pie without the hassle of making a full pie.

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This recipe uses basic pantry ingredients and fresh apples to create a dessert that is both approachable and delicious. The layered bars feature a sturdy pastry crust, a juicy apple filling spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, and a crisp, golden topping that gives each bite texture and flavor.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 12 Servings):

• Calories: 340 kcal
• Fat: 16g
• Carbohydrates: 46g
• Protein: 3g
• Sodium: 140mg

These apple pie bars provide all the flavors of a traditional pie in a smaller, easy-to-eat form. With a balance of sweet and spiced apples, a buttery crust, and a crisp topping, each bar offers a satisfying bite.

Serving Suggestions

Easy Apple Pie Bars are perfect served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a more decadent twist, drizzle caramel sauce over the top. These bars are also great as a snack on their own with a cup of coffee or tea.

They make an excellent dessert for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday parties, and are easy to transport in a baking pan. You can also serve them with a side of fresh fruit or a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.

Storage Tips

Store leftover apple pie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, place the bars in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-7 minutes until warmed through. These bars also freeze well—wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving, and reheat in the oven for best results.

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Easy Apple Pie Bars Recipe

For the Pastry Crust:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 12 Tbsp unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1/4 cup milk (2% or whole milk)

For the Apple Filling:

• 5 cups peeled, cored, and diced apples
• 1/2 cup granulated white sugar
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar, lightly packed
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

For the Topping:

• 1 egg white, lightly beaten
• 3 Tbsp turbinado sugar

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pastry Crust:In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the cold butter cubes into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and milk, then add to the flour mixture. Stir until the dough begins to come together. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it gently into a smooth ball. Divide the dough in half, wrap each half in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Apple Filling:While the dough chills, prepare the apple filling. In a large bowl, combine the diced apples, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, all-purpose flour, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Toss until the apples are evenly coated. Set aside.
3. Assemble the Bars:Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper. Roll out one half of the chilled dough on a floured surface to fit the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Carefully transfer the dough into the dish, pressing it into the corners and trimming any excess. Spread the apple filling evenly over the crust.
4. Top the Filling:Roll out the second half of the dough and place it over the apple filling, covering the entire surface. Use a fork to crimp the edges of the dough and seal the bars. Lightly brush the top with the beaten egg white, then sprinkle with the turbinado sugar for a crispy, golden finish.
5. Bake the Bars:Bake the apple pie bars in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes before slicing into squares.
6. Serve:Once the bars have cooled, slice them into squares or rectangles and serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy them on their own, or pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Extra Tips:

• For Flakier Crust: Make sure to keep the butter cold while preparing the pastry dough. You can even freeze the butter for 10 minutes before cutting it into the flour.
• Mix of Apples: For a more complex apple flavor, use a combination of sweet and tart apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of ground cloves or cardamom to the apple filling for a more spiced flavor profile.

Easy Apple Pie Bars bring all the flavors of a classic apple pie into a convenient, easy-to-make dessert. With a buttery, flaky pastry crust, a sweet and spiced apple filling, and a golden topping, these bars are the perfect fall treat. Whether served at a holiday gathering, as a family dessert, or as a snack, these bars will quickly become a favorite. Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of apple pie in bar form—ideal for any occasion!