Quick & Delicious Apple Pie Bars for Fall! 🍏🍰

Name: Quick & Delicious Apple Pie Bars for Fall! 🍏🍰
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3 cups thinly sliced apples; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup oats; 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Created by

Stella Cameron

Last updated on 2025-12-19T14:01:01.472Z

These Quick & Delicious Apple Pie Bars are the perfect fall treat! Bursting with apple flavor and wrapped in a buttery crust, they’re a delightful dessert for any gathering.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Warm, comforting apple flavor that evokes fall vibes
Easy to make and perfect for sharing
Deliciously spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg

      

The Perfect Fall Treat

As the leaves turn and the air becomes crisp, there's nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked apple pie bars wafting through your home. These bars encapsulate the essence of fall with their rich apple filling and warm spices. The combination of cinnamon and nutmeg not only enhances the natural sweetness of the apples but also evokes cozy memories of family gatherings and festive celebrations.

These Quick & Delicious Apple Pie Bars are not just a treat for the taste buds; they are also an easy and approachable dessert that anyone can whip up. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, you can have a delicious fall dessert ready in no time. Ideal for potlucks, holiday parties, or just a cozy night in, these bars are sure to impress everyone.

Versatile and Customizable

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. While the classic apple filling is a favorite, feel free to experiment with different fruits like pears or berries, or even mix apples with other fruits for a unique twist. You can adjust the spices according to your preference, adding more cinnamon for a stronger flavor or incorporating ginger for a warm touch.

Additionally, the topping can be modified based on what you have on hand. If you don’t have pecans, walnuts or almonds can easily replace them. For a healthier version, consider using whole grain oats or substituting some of the granulated sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.

Serving and Storing Tips

These apple pie bars are best served warm, either on their own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. A drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of powdered sugar can elevate the presentation and flavor even further. They make a delightful dessert option after a hearty fall meal or as a sweet snack throughout the day.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate them for a week. For longer storage, these bars can be frozen for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing, and thaw them at room temperature before enjoying.

Ingredients

For the Bars

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 cups thinly sliced apples
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Topping

1/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup oats
1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Mix the sliced apples with lemon juice and spices to enhance their flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the softened butter and vanilla extract, then mix until crumbly.

Assemble the Base

Press half of the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9x13 inch baking pan. Bake for 10 minutes.

Prepare the Filling

In another bowl, combine the sliced apples, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Spread this mixture over the baked crust.

Add Topping

In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, oats, and nuts. Sprinkle over the apple layer. Top with the remaining crust mixture.

Bake

Bake for an additional 20 minutes or until the top is golden brown. Allow to cool before slicing into bars.

Enjoy your delicious apple pie bars warm or at room temperature!

Nutritional Benefits

These apple pie bars not only taste great but also come with nutritional benefits. Apples are a fantastic source of dietary fiber, which helps promote digestive health and can keep you feeling full longer. They are also rich in vitamins C and A, which are essential for a healthy immune system and skin health.

Additionally, the oats in the topping provide whole grains that can contribute to heart health by lowering cholesterol levels. By incorporating nuts like pecans or walnuts, you're also adding healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants to the mix, making this dessert not just delicious, but also a bit more wholesome.

Perfect Pairings

Pair these apple pie bars with your favorite fall beverages for an even more delightful experience. A warm cup of spiced cider or a classic pumpkin latte complements the flavors beautifully. For those who enjoy a glass of wine, consider serving these bars with a light, fruity white wine or a sweet dessert wine that accentuates the apple filling.

For gatherings, these bars can be served alongside a cheese platter featuring sharp cheddar or creamy brie, creating a delicious contrast of flavors. The combination of sweet, savory, and creamy elements makes for a memorable dessert experience that your guests will love.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other fruits instead of apples?

Yes, you can substitute with pears or berries for different flavors.

→ How do I store the apple pie bars?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

→ Can I freeze these bars?

Absolutely! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.