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Imagine the comforting aroma of cinnamon and baked apples wafting through your kitchen – that’s exactly what you get with these Apple Pie Bars. They capture the heartwarming essence of a classic apple pie but in a more convenient, portable form. Perfect for busy weekdays or a quick weekend treat, these bars are sure to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Apple Pie Bars are all about simplicity and flavor. You’ll adore the tender, buttery crust and the sweet, spiced apple filling. They’re easier to prepare than a traditional pie, eliminating the fuss of rolling out dough. Plus, their handheld size makes them perfect for lunchboxes, snacks, or bake sales. You’ll love how these bars bring smiles to faces and warmth to hearts.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×9-inch baking dish
- Electric mixer
- Medium mixing bowls
- Spatula
- Toothpick
Ingredients
- 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and finely diced
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish. Set it aside.
- In a medium bowl, cream together the butter and sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed. Add the egg and beat until the mixture is fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- In a separate medium bowl, sift together the flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter and sugar mixture, mixing on low speed until just incorporated. Gently fold in the diced apples.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bars to cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming.
- For a more pronounced apple flavor, use a combination of apple varieties.
- If you prefer a sweeter bar, add a tablespoon more sugar to the batter.
Additional Tips and Variations
Feel free to add a handful of chopped nuts or raisins for extra texture. If you like a hint of caramel, drizzle caramel sauce over the bars before serving. For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 2g
- Fiber: 2g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use another type of apple?
Yes, you can use any apple variety you like, but Granny Smith apples are great for their tartness and firm texture.
How should I store these bars?
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
Can I freeze the bars?
Yes, you can freeze the bars. Wrap them individually and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Conclusion
These Apple Pie Bars are a delightful twist on a classic dessert, offering all the beloved flavors of apple pie in a simple, easy-to-make form. We hope you give this recipe a try and share it with your family and friends. Let us know how much you enjoy them and feel free to share your own twists and variations!
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