Easy Apple Bars Recipe

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Transport your taste buds back in time with our delightful Old-Fashioned Easy Apple Bars recipe. This timeless dessert captures the essence of traditional baking, offering a comforting blend of sweet, tender apples, warm spices, and a crumbly, buttery crust that’s sure to evoke memories of home-cooked treats. Made with simple pantry staples and a generous helping of chopped apples, these bars are a perfect balance of sweet and slightly tangy, making them an ideal addition to your dessert repertoire.

With a recipe that’s both simple and rewarding, you’ll find yourself enjoying the delightful aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg as you bake these bars to golden perfection. Whether you’re reminiscing about cherished family gatherings or creating new memories with loved ones, these Old-Fashioned Easy Apple Bars are a classic dessert that never goes out of style. Don’t forget to roll them in powdered sugar for that perfect finishing touch, elevating this timeless treat to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Ingredients You Will Need

• Brown Sugar
• Egg
• Flour
• Baking Soda
• Salt
• Powdered Sugar
• Butter
• Apples
• Cinnamon
• Nutmeg
• Walnuts

Equipment You May Need

• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Mixer
• Mixing Bowl
• Wooden Spoon
• Apple Slicer
• Cutting Board
• Flour Sifter
• 9-Inch Square Pan
• Mini Serving Spatula

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any apple for this recipe? Yes, you can use a variety of apples, but Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples are often recommended for their sweet-tart flavor and firm texture.

How should I store these apple bars? Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to store them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week.

Can I freeze these bars? Yes, you can freeze these apple bars. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

How do I know when the bars are done baking? Insert a toothpick or fork into the center of the bars; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they are done.

Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe? Yes, you can reduce the sugar if you prefer a less sweet dessert. However, remember that sugar contributes to the texture and moisture of the bars.

What if I don’t have a flour sifter? You can use a whisk to sift the dry ingredients.

Substitutions and Variations

Apple Varieties:

• Mix of Apples: Try using a combination of different apple varieties for a more complex flavor profile.
• Pears: Substitute some or all of the apples with pears for a different twist.

Spice Variations:

• Allspice: Add a pinch of allspice in addition to or instead of nutmeg.
• Cardamom: Experiment with cardamom for a unique flavor.

Nut Substitutions:

• Pecans: Replace walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
• Nut-Free: If you have nut allergies or prefer a nut-free option, omit the nuts altogether.

Toppings and Mix-Ins:

• Raisins or Dried Cranberries: Add these for extra sweetness and texture.
• Chocolate Chips: If you’re feeling indulgent, fold in some chocolate chips into the batter.
• Coconut Flakes: Sprinkle shredded coconut on top for added texture and flavor.

Other Recipes You May Enjoy

If you like these Easy Apple Bars, you might want to try my Apple Crisp or my Apple Coffee Cake. These Baked Apple Fritters would also be delicious. Instant Pot Applesauce is a yummy treat, too.

Final Thoughts

Easy Apple Bars are very simple to make, much easier than apple pie! They are a great addition to your fall baking lineup because you most likely have all the ingredients (except maybe the apples) in your kitchen already. After making them, your house will smell like autumn and your family will likely be begging you to make them again!