Flaky Apple Pie Bars: The Perfect Handheld Dessert

Introduction

If you’re a fan of classic apple pie but want a more convenient way to enjoy it, these flaky apple pie bars are the perfect solution! They deliver all the comforting flavors of a traditional pie with a crisp, buttery crust and a gooey, cinnamon-spiced apple filling—all in a handheld form. Whether for a fall gathering, holiday treat, or simple weeknight dessert, these bars are sure to impress.

For more apple-inspired treats, check out this Apple Dessert Collection that showcases the best ways to use fresh apples.

Why You’ll Love These Apple Pie Bars

Flaky, buttery crust—just like a classic pie, but easier to make.
Perfectly spiced apple filling with warm cinnamon and nutmeg.
Simple and quick—no rolling out traditional pie dough.
Great for a crowd—cut into bars for easy serving.
Make-ahead friendly—flavors deepen over time.

Ingredients Needed

For the Crust and Topping:

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
½ cup granulated sugar
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ cup ice water (as needed)

For the Apple Filling:

5 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and diced
½ cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon nutmeg
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 teaspoon lemon juice
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

For a guide on choosing the best apples for baking, visit Apple Varieties for Baking to make sure you pick the right ones.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Crust and Topping

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Stir in vanilla extract and slowly add ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until a dough forms.
Press two-thirds of the dough into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan and bake for 15 minutes until slightly golden.

2. Making the Apple Filling

In a saucepan, combine apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice.
Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until apples soften.
Mix cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water, then stir into the apple mixture to thicken.
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.

3. Assembling and Baking

Spread the apple filling evenly over the pre-baked crust.
Crumble the remaining dough over the top.
Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown.
Let cool completely before cutting into bars.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for 5 days.
To freeze, wrap bars individually and store for up to 3 months.

FAQs

Can I use a different fruit instead of apples?

Yes! Try using pears, peaches, or berries for a delicious variation.

What’s the best way to reheat apple pie bars?

Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes or microwave for 20 seconds.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

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