Apple Pie Bars – Easy, Buttery & Full of Fall Flavor

The smell of apples and cinnamon wafting through the house creates that unmistakable cozy magic. It takes me back to fall afternoons spent with my grandma, her kitchen full of laughter and the scent of freshly baked apple pie.

But let’s be honest, making a traditional pie can feel like a big project. That’s why I love these Apple Pie Bars! They deliver all the cozy, spiced flavors of apple pie but with a fraction of the effort.

Plus, they’re perfect for sharing at potlucks, bake sales, or just enjoying at home with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

These bars come together easily with a buttery shortbread crust, a sweet apple filling, and a crumbly streusel topping. Whether you’re using fresh apples or apple pie filling, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. So grab your favorite 9×13 pan, and let’s bake!

Ingredients for the Best Apple Pie Bars

Let’s get everything ready! These Apple Pie Bars use simple ingredients you might already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the crust:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups all-purpose flour

For the apple filling:

• 5 medium apples (like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the streusel topping:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Optional tools:

• 9×13 baking pan (glass or metal works great)
• Parchment paper for easy cleanup

Now that everything’s ready, we’re ready to dive into the fun part, assembling and baking these delicious bars!

How to Make Apple Pie Bars

This recipe is broken down into three simple layers: crust, filling, and topping. I promise it’s easier than it looks, and the results are so worth it!

Step 1: Make the crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F and line your 9×13 pan with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, sugar, and salt until smooth.

Add the flour and mix until a soft dough forms. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Bake for 15 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the apple filling

While the crust bakes, toss the sliced apples with both sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, flour, and lemon juice in a large bowl. Make sure the apples are evenly coated with all that cinnamon-sugar goodness.

Step 3: Assemble the bars

Spread the apple mixture evenly over the baked crust. Try to create an even layer for the best results.

Step 4: Make the streusel topping

In another bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon. Stir until crumbly. Sprinkle the streusel evenly over the apples, covering as much as possible.

Step 5: Bake

Bake the assembled bars at 350°F for 30–35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender. The kitchen will smell heavenly at this point!

Step 6: Cool and serve

Let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares. This helps them hold their shape. Serve as is, or add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.

Recipe Variations and Customization Ideas

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is. Here are a few fun ways to make it your own:

• Gluten-free option: Swap the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Make sure your oats (if using) are certified gluten-free too.
• Vegan-friendly: Use plant-based butter, and replace the egg with a flax egg or unsweetened applesauce. Double-check that your sugar is vegan-friendly.
• Add more texture: Stir chopped pecans, walnuts, or sliced almonds into the streusel topping for a little crunch.
• Spice it up: Boost the fall flavor with a pinch of nutmeg, allspice, or even a dash of ground ginger along with the cinnamon.
• Fruit swaps: Mix things up by adding pears, cranberries, or even a handful of raisins to the apple filling for a fun twist.
• Make it caramel apple style: Drizzle salted caramel sauce over the baked bars for a decadent finish.
• Make-ahead tip: You can bake the bars a day in advance and store them covered at room temperature. For longer storage, they freeze beautifully for up to 2 months.
• Serving idea: These bars are delicious on their own, but for a true dessert moment, serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Pie Bars

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes! Apple Pie Bars are a great make-ahead dessert. Bake them a day in advance and store them covered at room temperature. They taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

What’s the best apple variety for this recipe?

I recommend using Granny Smith apples for their tart flavor, which balances the sweetness perfectly. Honeycrisp or Fuji apples work well too if you prefer a sweeter filling.

Can I freeze these bars?

Absolutely! Let the bars cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and warm them up before serving.

How do I prevent a soggy crust?

Pre-baking the crust is key! It creates a sturdy base that won’t get soggy from the apple filling. Letting the bars cool before slicing also helps them set properly.

Can I use a smaller pan?

If you don’t have a 9×13 pan, you can use an 8×8 pan instead. Just halve the recipe and adjust the baking time as needed.

Let’s Bake Together!

I hope you’re as excited to try these Apple Pie Bars as I am to share them with you! They’re the perfect treat for everything from holiday gatherings to cozy nights at home. The buttery crust, spiced apples, and crumbly topping are simply irresistible.

If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turns out! Leave a comment below, rate the recipe, or share your photos on social media.

Don’t forget to tag me. I can’t wait to see your creations!

Looking for more fall dessert ideas? You’ll love my Pumpkin Spice Muffins or Easy No-Bake Rhubarb Lemon Bars. Happy baking!

With love,
Wanda