Prepare to revolutionize your dessert game with the most irresistible apple pie bars that will make your taste buds dance and your family beg for seconds! These Perfect Apple Pie Bars are not just a recipe; they're a slice of heavenly comfort that combines the classic warmth of apple pie with the convenience of a grab-and-go treat. Imagine biting into a golden, crumbly crust loaded with tender, cinnamon-spiced apples that practically melt in your mouth – this is the dessert dream you've been waiting for!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 60 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 16 bars
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 4 cups sliced apples
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess paper to hang over the sides for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, 1/2 cup sugar, softened butter, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Mix until the mixture becomes crumbly and resembles coarse sand.
- Press about 2/3 of the flour mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, creating an even base layer. Set aside the remaining mixture for the topping.
- In a separate bowl, toss sliced apples with remaining 1/2 cup sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, cinnamon, and remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt until apples are evenly coated.
- Spread the apple mixture evenly over the prepared crust, ensuring complete coverage.
- Sprinkle the reserved flour mixture over the apple layer, creating a crumbly topping.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan for at least 1 hour before cutting into 16 bars.
- Lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang, slice, and serve. Optional: dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Tips
- Choose the Right Apples: Opt for firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp that hold their shape and provide a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter is softened but not melted for the perfect crumbly crust texture.
- Even Layer Technique: When pressing the crust and topping, use the back of a measuring cup or flat spatula to create an even, compact layer.
- Don't Rush the Cooling: Patience is key! Let the bars cool completely to allow the filling to set and make cutting easier.
- Storage Hack: These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
- Serving Suggestion: For an extra touch of decadence, serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the crust and filling a day in advance and bake just before serving for maximum freshness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 42g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 45mg
