FALL DESSERT

Apple Pie Bars

Cinnamon-spiced apples layered over a buttery oat crust and finished with a golden crumb topping.

Apple Pie Bars give you all the cozy flavor of classic apple pie in an easy sliceable dessert. Careful mixing and complete cooling protect the crumb, filling, or crust from becoming heavy.

Jump to Recipe
Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time40 mins
Total Time1 hr
Servings12
DifficultyEasy

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1 cup cold butter, cubed
  • 4 apples, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • Pinch of salt

Substitutions

  • When making Apple Pie Bars, a firm plant-based butter can replace dairy butter; use the same amount and expect a slightly different flavor.
  • When making Apple Pie Bars, use another fruit with similar moisture and keep the measured amount close to the recipe.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the pan

Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking pan with parchment paper.

Step 2: Make the crumb mixture

Mix flour, oats, brown sugar, and salt. Cut in butter until crumbly.

Make the crumb mixture for Apple Pie Bars

Step 3: Press the crust

Press about two-thirds of the crumb mixture into the bottom of the pan.

Step 4: Add apple filling

Toss apples with sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and cornstarch, then spread over the crust.

Add apple filling for Apple Pie Bars

Step 5: Bake

Sprinkle remaining crumbs on top and bake for 35 to 40 minutes until golden. Cool before slicing.

Bake for Apple Pie Bars
Finished Apple Pie Bars ready to serve

How to Store Leftovers

Cool Apple Pie Bars completely before covering. Store it airtight at cool room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 4 days if the kitchen is warm or the recipe contains fresh fruit.

How to Reheat

Serve Apple Pie Bars at room temperature unless the recipe is intended warm. Heat individual portions briefly and avoid overheating frosting, glaze, or fruit filling.

Serving Ideas

  • Powdered sugar or whipped cream
  • Fresh berries
  • Coffee or tea
  • A dessert platter

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Overmixing after flour is added.
  • Cutting or frosting before cooling.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient Per Serving
Calories 260
Protein 3g
Carbohydrates 39g
Fat 11g
Sugar 23g

Nutrition is an estimate and can vary with brands, portion size, and substitutions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the clearest doneness cue for Apple Pie Bars?

Sprinkle remaining crumbs on top and bake for 35 to 40 minutes until golden.

About the Author

Written and edited by the FreshFork Recipes Team.

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