How to Make Freshly Baked Apple Pie Bars
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang for easy removal.
In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press about two-thirds of this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Step 2: Make the Apple Filling
While the crust is baking, peel and thinly slice the apples. Place them in a bowl and toss with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, cornstarch, and vanilla extract. Stir until the apples are evenly coated and fragrant.
Step 3: Assemble the Bars
Remove the crust from the oven and spread the apple mixture evenly over the warm base. Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over the apples, gently pressing it down in places to create clusters.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden
Return the pan to the oven and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling around the edges.
Let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing. This helps them set and makes cleaner cuts.
Serving Suggestions
Freshly baked apple pie bars are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them even more by:
Dusting with powdered sugar
Drizzling with vanilla glaze
Serving warm with vanilla ice cream
Pairing with whipped cream or caramel sauce
Storage Tips
Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days
Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to 5 days
Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months
Simply reheat individual bars in the microwave or oven for that “freshly baked” feel.
Final Thoughts
Apple pie bars capture the heart of homemade baking—simple ingredients, warm spices, and a comforting texture that feels like home. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or treating yourself, this recipe delivers all the nostalgia of apple pie in an easier, more versatile form.
Once you try these freshly baked apple pie bars, they just might become your new favorite way to enjoy apples all year round. 🍏✨
