The aroma of cinnamon and baked apples wafts through the air as you prepare to indulge in these scrumptious apple pie bars. Imagine biting into a warm slice, the buttery crust crumbling just right while the sweet-tart apples dance on your taste buds.

Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What type of apples are best for apple pie bars?
- Can I make apple pie bars ahead of time?
- How do I know when my apple pie bars are done?
- 📖 Recipe Card
These delightful treats bring back fond memories of family gatherings where we’d gather around the table, ready to devour anything Mom had whipped up that day. Perfect for fall festivities or simply a cozy evening at home, these apple pie bars promise an explosion of flavor in every bite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These easy-to-make apple pie bars require minimal prep time while still delivering maximum flavor.
- Each bar features a buttery crust paired with sweet, spiced apples that melt in your mouth.
- Visually appealing with their golden-brown finish, they make any gathering feel special.
- Versatile enough for any occasion; serve them warm with ice cream or cold for breakfast!
Sharing these delicious apple pie bars at my family reunion brought smiles all around – even Uncle Bob stole a second piece when he thought no one was watching!

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of your crust; sifted flour ensures a lighter texture.
- Unsalted Butter: Use cold butter for the crust; it creates those irresistible flaky layers.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens both the crust and filling; adjust based on your sweetness preference.
- Baking Powder: This leavening agent helps create a light texture in the crust.
- Salt: A pinch enhances all flavors beautifully throughout this recipe.
- Fresh Apples: Choose tart varieties like Granny Smith for balanced flavor; peel and slice them thin.
- Cinnamon: A must-have spice; it adds warmth and comfort to your filling.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed juice brightens the flavors and keeps apples from browning.
- Brown Sugar: Adds depth and richness to the filling; mix it with spices for extra flavor.
- Oats (optional): For added texture in the topping; use quick oats for best results.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking dish by greasing it lightly with butter or cooking spray.
Create the Crust Mixture: In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs—feel free to use your hands here!
Add Liquid Ingredients: Gradually mix in water until dough forms. Don’t overwork it; just enough until everything sticks together nicely.
Prepare Your Filling: In another bowl, toss sliced apples with lemon juice, cinnamon, and brown sugar. This will create a sweet and tangy filling that makes your mouth water.
Assemble Your Bars: Press half of the crust mixture into your prepared baking dish. Layer with the apple filling before sprinkling remaining crust mixture on top like confetti!
Bake Until Golden Brown : Bake in preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until golden brown on top. Let cool slightly before cutting into squares—if you can resist!
Baking these apple pie bars is not just about following steps; it’s an experience filled with aromas that transport you back to cherished moments. The combination of crispy crust and tender apples creates a treat everyone will love!
You Must Know
- Apple pie bars are the perfect sweet treat for gatherings.
- Their delightful aroma fills the kitchen, and they’re easier than making a whole pie.
- The buttery crust paired with spiced apples makes every bite feel like a warm hug.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by preparing the crust while preheating your oven. Layer fresh apple slices with sugar and spices before assembling for even distribution.

Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out some sugar for brown sugar, or mix in nuts or raisins for added texture and flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store apple pie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore crispness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always slice your apples thinly for even cooking and maximum tenderness.
- Using tart apples balances the sweetness and enhances flavor complexity.
- Remember to let them cool before cutting; this helps maintain their shape.
The first time I made these bars, my friends devoured them within minutes. Their smiles and compliments reminded me why I love baking so much!

FAQ
What type of apples are best for apple pie bars?
Use tart apples like Granny Smith for the best flavor balance.
Can I make apple pie bars ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them a day in advance and store them covered.
How do I know when my apple pie bars are done?
They’re ready when the edges are golden brown and apples are bubbling.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Apple Pie Bars
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: About 12 servings 1x
Description
Apple pie bars are a delightful twist on a classic dessert, featuring a buttery crust and sweet, spiced apples—a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cold
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 cups fresh apples (like Granny Smith), peeled and sliced thin
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup oats (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add water until the dough holds together without overworking it.
- In another bowl, combine sliced apples with lemon juice, cinnamon, and brown sugar.
- Press half of the crust mixture into the greased baking dish. Layer with the apple filling and sprinkle remaining crust mixture on top.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown. Allow to cool before cutting into bars.
Notes
- For added texture, consider incorporating chopped nuts or raisins.
- Allowing the apple pie bars to cool completely helps maintain their shape when cutting.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (60g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg






