Description
These delightful apple pie bars offer a convenient, handheld twist on the classic American dessert. Featuring a buttery, shortbread-style crust and a generous filling of tender Granny Smith apples tossed in warm cinnamon, these bars are the perfect portion-controlled treat. They eliminate the hassle of rolling out pie dough while ensuring every bite is packed with spiced, fruity goodness, making them an excellent choice for casual snacks or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1.5 cups chilled unsalted butter, cubed
1 large egg
5 cups Granny Smith apples, peeled and thinly sliced
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1/4 cup additional sugar (for apples)
1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the 3 cups of flour and 1 cup of sugar.
Cut the chilled, cubed butter into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or fork until coarse crumbs form.
Add the egg to the mixture and combine until the dough holds together.
Press two-thirds of the dough firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
In a separate bowl, toss the sliced apples with 1/4 cup sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until evenly coated.
Layer the seasoned apple mixture evenly over the pressed bottom crust.
Crumble the remaining third of the dough over the top of the apples.
Bake for 40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the apples are tender.
Allow to cool completely in the pan before cutting into 16 bars.
Notes
Substitute brown sugar in the crust for a deeper, molasses-like flavor. Ensure the butter is very cold to achieve a shortbread-like texture. Use pastry flour if you prefer a more delicate crumb. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 40
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 285
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 15mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 45mg