Apple Bars

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Golden, gooey, and bursting with cinnamon-kissed apples, these Apple Bars are everything you love about fall in one simple treat. With a buttery crust, soft spiced apple filling, and crumbly topping, they strike a perfect balance between dessert and snack. Whether you’re looking for a cozy autumn bake or just need a crowd-pleaser for your next brunch, these bars will have everyone asking for seconds.

They’re the kind of treat that works for every season. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or enjoy chilled straight from the fridge. You can pack them for lunchboxes, slice them for potlucks, or save them as your go-to sweet bite with coffee. It’s a classic recipe made with simple ingredients but yields exceptional comfort and flavor.

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Why You’ll Love This Apple Bars Recipe

Apple Bars are a perfect example of how a few pantry staples and fresh fruit can create something truly special. They’re soft and chewy with a tender crumb, and each bite bursts with sweet-tart apple flavor. The cinnamon crumble topping adds texture and warmth, making it ideal for cozy gatherings or make-ahead desserts.

You’ll also love how easy these bars are to slice, store, and transport. No forks required, no complicated steps – just easy prep and a bake that makes your kitchen smell amazing.

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What Kind of Apples Should I Use for Apple Bars?

For the best texture and flavor, go with firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn. These varieties hold up well during baking and offer a balance of sweetness and acidity that complements the cinnamon and brown sugar perfectly.

Avoid soft apples like Red Delicious, which can turn mushy. If you’re mixing apple types, even better – you’ll get a more dynamic flavor in every bite.

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Ingredients for the Apple Bars

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a key role in bringing texture and flavor together. From the apples to the crumble topping, everything works in harmony.

• Fresh Apples – The star of the show. Choose tart, firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for structure and flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides the base for the crust and crumble, giving body and structure.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness to the apple filling and balances the tartness.
• Brown Sugar – Offers moisture and a deep, caramel flavor that enhances the apples.
• Butter – Used in the crust and crumble topping to add richness and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Eggs – Helps bind the batter together and adds moisture.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds warm, aromatic depth to the flavor profile.
• Cinnamon – A must-have spice that complements the apples beautifully.
• Salt – Enhances and balances all the sweet flavors.
• Baking Powder – Gives the bars a slight lift for a softer bite.

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How To Make the Apple Bars

Step 1: Make the Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Cut in cold butter until the mixture is crumbly. Press this evenly into a greased baking pan and bake for 10 minutes at 350°F. This sets the base and adds a slight crunch.

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling

Peel and thinly slice the apples. Toss them in granulated sugar, cinnamon, and a splash of vanilla extract. Layer the seasoned apples evenly over the pre-baked crust.

Step 3: Whisk the Batter

In a separate bowl, beat eggs with more sugar, baking powder, and a touch of flour. Pour this gently over the apples. It will bind the layers together during baking.

Step 4: Add the Crumble Topping

Mix butter, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon until crumbly. Sprinkle generously over the apples and batter layer. This will create a sweet, crispy topping.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake at 350°F for 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden and the center is set. Let the bars cool completely before slicing.

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How to Serve and Store Apple Bars

Apple Bars are best served once they’ve cooled and had a chance to set, making them easier to slice cleanly. Enjoy them at room temperature, chilled from the fridge, or slightly warmed up with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzle of caramel sauce.

This recipe yields about 12 to 16 bars depending on how large you cut them, making it perfect for family gatherings, bake sales, or meal prepping a week’s worth of sweet snacks.

To store, place the cooled bars in an airtight container. They will last up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator. You can also freeze them for longer storage – just separate layers with parchment paper and thaw before serving.

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What to Serve With Apple Bars?

Coffee or Latte

The warm spice of the apple bars pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or your favorite latte.

Vanilla Ice Cream

A cold scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of a warm apple bar is a dessert match made in heaven.

Salted Caramel Drizzle

Drizzle some salted caramel sauce over the bars for a rich, sweet-salty twist.

Whipped Cream

Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream to elevate it into a plated dessert.

Sharp Cheddar Cheese

A classic pairing with apple desserts – the contrast of creamy cheese and sweet apple is unexpectedly delicious.

Chai Tea

The spiced tea enhances the cinnamon in the bars.

Greek Yogurt

Serve with a spoonful of vanilla or honey Greek yogurt for a light breakfast version.

Maple Glaze

A drizzle of maple glaze can bring out fall flavors even more.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make Apple Bars ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, Apple Bars taste even better the next day as the flavors have time to develop. Store them in the fridge and simply bring them to room temperature before serving, or enjoy them cold.

2. Can I use gluten-free flour instead?
Absolutely. A 1:1 gluten-free flour blend can be used in place of all-purpose flour. Just make sure it includes xanthan gum for structure.

3. How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The top should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out mostly clean with only a few moist crumbs. If the center still looks too jiggly, give it another 5 minutes.

4. Can I freeze Apple Bars?
Yes, they freeze beautifully. Once cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw at room temperature or microwave for 20-30 seconds before enjoying.

5. Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe?
You can reduce the sugar slightly if your apples are very sweet, but keep in mind that it may affect texture and shelf life. Consider reducing just by 1/4 cup at a time.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use a tart apple or mix in different types? Maybe added a caramel swirl?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other bake smarter.

Want more cozy dessert ideas? Follow along on Pinterest for daily updates and sweet inspiration: Life With Livia on Pinterest.

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Conclusion

Apple Bars are that perfect cross between rustic simplicity and indulgent comfort. Whether you’re making them for a party, holiday, or just to fill the house with the scent of cinnamon and apples, they never disappoint. Easy to bake, easy to love, and even easier to share – this is one dessert that deserves a permanent spot in your recipe box.

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