Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly balanced dessert that combines the classic warmth of apple pie with the convenience of a handheld bar. These Glazed Apple Pie Bars are not just a treat; they're a culinary experience that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary dessert that will have everyone begging for your recipe. With a buttery, crumbly crust, tender spiced apples, and a decadent sweet glaze, these bars are about to become your new go-to dessert for every occasion!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups sliced apples
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and granulated sugar. Add softened butter and mix until the mixture becomes crumbly and resembles coarse sand.
- Press about two-thirds of the flour mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to create an even base crust. Set aside the remaining mixture for the topping.
- Wash, peel, and slice the apples into thin, uniform pieces. In a separate bowl, toss the apple slices with cinnamon and nutmeg, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Spread the spiced apple slices evenly over the prepared crust, creating a consistent layer that covers the entire surface.
- Sprinkle the remaining flour-sugar mixture over the apple layer, creating a crumbly topping that will become golden and crisp during baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the apples are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan for about 30 minutes.
- For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar and milk until smooth and has a pourable consistency.
- Use the parchment paper to lift the bars out of the pan, then drizzle the glaze over the cooled bars.
- Allow the glaze to set for 10-15 minutes, then cut into 12 even bars and serve.
Tips
- Choose the right apples: Opt for firm, slightly tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp that hold their shape during baking.
- Ensure even butter distribution: When mixing the crust, make sure the butter is softened and thoroughly incorporated for a consistent, crumbly texture.
- Don't skip the parchment paper: This makes removing and cutting the bars much easier and prevents sticking.
- Let the bars cool completely before glazing: This helps the glaze set properly and prevents it from becoming too runny.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of vanilla extract to the glaze or a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a gourmet touch.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for extended freshness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 30mg
