Description
These Old-Fashioned Apple Pie Bars are a comforting, handheld version of the classic American dessert. They feature a buttery, shortbread-style base topped with a layer of tender, spiced apples and a golden, crumbly streusel. Perfect for gatherings or a quiet afternoon treat, these bars offer all the warmth of a traditional apple pie without the need for delicate pastry work. Simple, wholesome, and deeply satisfying, they are a true celebration of homely baking tradition.
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
4 large crisp apples, peeled and thinly sliced
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a 9×9 inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugars until smooth.
Stir in the flour and salt until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Press two-thirds of the dough firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the base.
In a separate bowl, toss the sliced apples with the sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice.
Arrange the apple mixture evenly over the crust layer.
Crumble the remaining dough over the top of the apples to form the streusel topping.
Bake for 40 to 45 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.
Notes
For best results, use a variety of firm, crisp apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith. Let the bars cool fully before cutting to ensure clean, firm edges. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 65mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg