As the leaves turn and the crisp autumn air sets in, our thoughts naturally turn to warm, comforting baked goods. And what’s more quintessential to fall than apples? This season, why not bring a taste of the orchard into your kitchen with one of these 18 delicious apple bar recipes? From classic apple crumble bars to spiced oatmeal bars and even vegan options, there’s something for every palate.
In this article, we’ll be diving into the wonderful world of apple bars – a sweet and satisfying treat that’s perfect for snacking, potlucks, or even just a cozy night in. With flavors ranging from caramel to cinnamon to maple, these bars are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you feeling cozy and content.
Classic Apple Crumble Bars
A sweet and tangy treat that combines the warmth of a crumble topping with the crunch of an oat-based crust, these bars are perfect for snacking on the go.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2-3 Granny Smith apples, peeled and thinly sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cold butter until crumbly.
3. Press half of the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
4. Arrange apple slices on top of the crust.
5. Top apples with remaining crumble mixture.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
These creamy, gooey, and crunchy bars are a perfect treat for the fall season. The combination of caramel, apples, and cheesecake is a match made in heaven!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups diced apples (Granny Smith or your favorite variety)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Press into a 9×9-inch baking dish.
3. In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix well.
4. Pour cheesecake batter over the crust.
5. Drizzle caramel sauce evenly over the cheesecake layer.
6. Top with diced apples.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cheesecake is set.
8. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Apple Pie Bars with Shortbread Crust
Elevate your snack game with these tender apple pie bars resting on a buttery shortbread crust. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or just satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 3-4 apples, peeled and sliced
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Prepare shortbread crust by mixing flour, sugar, and butter until a dough forms. Press into prepared baking dish.
3. In a separate bowl, mix brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Add sliced apples and mix until coated.
4. Pour apple mixture over shortbread crust.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until crust is golden and filling is bubbly.
6. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Spiced Apple Oatmeal Bars
Savor the warmth of autumn with these scrumptious Spiced Apple Oatmeal Bars, featuring tender apples, comforting oats, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup diced apples (about 1 medium-sized apple)
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir until well combined.
3. Add melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
4. Fold in diced apples and chopped walnuts (if using).
5. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Apple Cinnamon Streusel Bars
Moist apple filling, crunchy streusel topping, and a hint of cinnamon come together to create these irresistible bars. Perfect for a snack or dessert, they’re sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh apples (such as Granny Smith or Fuji)
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Add butter; use a pastry blender or fingers to work into crumbs.
3. Press half the crumb mixture into prepared baking dish. Top with chopped apples.
4. Sprinkle remaining crumb mixture over apples. If using walnuts, sprinkle on top.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and apples are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Healthy Apple Almond Butter Bars
These chewy bars combine the natural sweetness of apples with the nutty goodness of almond butter, making them a delicious and wholesome snack option. With only a few ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup creamy almond butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh apple (Granny Smith or your favorite variety)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×6-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, almond butter, honey, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Fold in chopped apple and chia seeds.
4. Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
5. If using, sprinkle chopped almonds on top.
6. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Yield: 12-16 bars
Enjoy your delicious and healthy Apple Almond Butter Bars!
Apple Pecan Blondie Bars
These bars combine the warmth of caramelized apples and pecans with the richness of brown sugar and butter, creating a sweet treat that’s perfect for snacking or serving at a gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 3/4 tablespoons) unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1/2 cup diced apples (about 1 large apple)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped pecans and diced apples.
6. Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Maple Glazed Apple Bars
A sweet and tangy twist on traditional apple bars, these Maple Glazed Apple Bars are perfect for a quick dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup diced apples (about 2 medium-sized)
– Maple syrup for glazing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into crumbs.
3. Press half the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
4. Arrange diced apples on top of crust.
5. Roll out remaining dough to fit over apples. Place on top and press edges to seal.
6. Brush with beaten eggs and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. While bars are still warm, drizzle with maple syrup.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Vegan Apple Cinnamon Bars
Elevate your snack game with these sweet and satisfying vegan apple cinnamon bars, perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a healthy dessert option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1/4 cup coconut oil
– 2 cups diced apples ( Granny Smith work well)
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Mix well.
3. Add in maple syrup and coconut oil; mix until the mixture forms a crumbly dough.
4. Press half of the dough into the prepared baking dish.
5. Arrange the diced apples on top of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. Top with the remaining dough, pressing gently to adhere.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Apple Cranberry Crumble Bars
These bars combine the flavors of fresh apples and tart cranberries with a crunchy oat topping, perfect for a cozy fall afternoon.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh apples (Granny Smith or Fuji work well)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Add butter and mix until crumbly.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs and vanilla extract. Stir in apples and cranberries.
4. Pour apple mixture into prepared baking dish. Top with oat mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Gluten-Free Apple Crisp Bars
These delicious bars are perfect for a quick dessert or snack, and can be easily customized with your favorite spices or nuts. With a gluten-free crust and a sweet apple filling, you’ll be hooked from the very first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups sliced apples (Granny Smith or Fuji work well)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together eggs, vanilla extract, and sliced apples. Pour apple mixture over crust.
4. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar and chopped walnuts (if using). Sprinkle mixture evenly over apple filling.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until crust is golden brown and apples are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Apple Walnut Bars with Brown Sugar Frosting
These moist and flavorful bars combine the sweetness of apples and walnuts with a crunchy brown sugar topping.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup diced apples (Granny Smith or Fuji)
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– Brown Sugar Frosting (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, and brown sugar.
3. Add melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract; stir until combined.
4. Fold in diced apples and chopped walnuts.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Brown Sugar Frosting:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
Mix ingredients until smooth and creamy. Spread over cooled bars.
Apple Gingerbread Bars
These apple gingerbread bars are a delightful twist on the classic gingerbread cookie, with the added bonus of sweet and tangy apples. The perfect treat for a cozy afternoon or as a gift for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh apples (such as Granny Smith or Gala)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cinnamon, ginger, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly dough forms.
4. Press dough into prepared pan.
5. Arrange apple slices on top of the dough.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Caramel Apple Shortbread Bars
A sweet and crumbly shortbread crust topped with tender apples and a rich caramel drizzle makes for the perfect dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 2 large eggs
– 2-3 apples, peeled and sliced (Granny Smith work well)
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar. Add butter; use a pastry blender or fingers to work into crumbs.
3. Press mixture evenly into prepared baking dish.
4. Arrange apple slices on top of shortbread crust.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until apples are tender.
6. Remove from oven; drizzle with caramel sauce and sprinkle with vanilla extract.
7. Allow to cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Apple Streusel Coffee Cake Bars
These bars combine the warm spices of a traditional coffee cake with the comforting sweetness of apples and a crunchy streusel topping. Perfect for a breakfast or brunch treat, these bars are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/2 cup diced apples (about 2 medium)
– Streusel topping: 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugars, and cinnamon.
3. Add in cold butter and mix until crumbly.
4. Press half of the mixture into prepared baking dish.
5. Top with diced apples and remaining dough mixture.
6. Sprinkle streusel topping over bars.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Apple Butter Bars with Oatmeal Topping
Apple Butter Bars with Oatmeal Topping: A Delicious Fall Treat
These chewy bars combine the warm spices of apple butter with a crunchy oatmeal topping, perfect for a cozy fall treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup apple butter
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Add melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt; stir until combined.
3. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
4. Spread apple butter evenly over the top of the crust.
5. In a small bowl, mix together oats, brown sugar, and walnuts (if using). Sprinkle topping over the apple butter.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Apple Cinnamon Roll Bars
A sweet and tangy twist on traditional cinnamon rolls, these bars combine the warmth of cinnamon with the crunch of chopped apples.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped apples (Granny Smith or other variety)
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add softened butter, egg, and vanilla extract; mix until a dough forms.
4. Fold in chopped apples and ground cinnamon.
5. Press dough into prepared baking dish.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Allow to cool before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Apple Toffee Bars with Salted Caramel Drizzle
These sweet and indulgent bars combine the flavors of tender apples, toffee, and caramel for a perfect autumn treat. With a crunchy oat topping and a drizzle of salted caramel, these bars are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup diced apples (about 2-3 medium-sized apples)
– 1/4 cup toffee bits
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– Salted caramel drizzle (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Add melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix until just combined.
3. Fold in diced apples and toffee bits. Pour batter into prepared baking dish.
4. Sprinkle rolled oats on top of the batter.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Allow bars to cool completely before drizzling with salted caramel.
Salted Caramel Drizzle:
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon sea salt
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Combine heavy cream, butter, and sea salt in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until caramel forms. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
Summary
Get ready for fall with these 18 delicious apple bar recipes! From classic crumble bars to cheesecake and oatmeal variations, there’s something for everyone. Try making caramel apple cheesecake bars or spiced apple oatmeal bars for a sweet treat. For a healthier option, go for the healthy apple almond butter bars. If you’re feeling festive, try the apple cinnamon streusel bars or maple glazed apple bars. And don’t forget about the vegan and gluten-free options! These apple bar recipes are perfect for snacking, brunching, or even as a dessert.
