Apple Bars with Butter

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These apple bars are simple to make and full of cozy flavor. The buttery crust pairs perfectly with the soft, spiced apples, creating a dessert that’s both rich and balanced. They’re easy to slice, serve, and great for sharing.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose flour
granulated sugar
brown sugar
butter
eggs
apples
cinnamon
nutmeg
vanilla extract
baking powder
salt

Directions

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a baking pan.

Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin pieces.

In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.

In another bowl, cream together butter and sugars until smooth.

Add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and combine.

Press about half of the dough into the bottom of the prepared pan.

Spread the sliced apples evenly over the base.

Sprinkle with a little cinnamon and sugar if desired.

Crumble the remaining dough over the apples.

Bake for 35–40 minutes until golden and set.

Allow to cool before cutting into bars.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12 bars
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 35–40 minutes
Total time: about 55 minutes

Variations

Add oats to the topping for extra texture.

Mix in raisins or chopped nuts.

Drizzle with a simple glaze after baking.

Use different spices like cloves or allspice.

Serve with whipped cream or ice cream.

Storage/Reheating

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Reheat slightly in the microwave if desired, or enjoy at room temperature.

FAQs

What apples work best?

Firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are ideal.

Can I leave the apple skins on?

Yes, but peeling gives a softer texture.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, they store well for a few days.

Can I freeze apple bars?

Yes, freeze for up to 2 months.

Why is my crust too crumbly?

It may need a bit more moisture or butter.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, adjust to taste.

How do I know when they are done?

The top should be golden and the center set.

Can I use a different fruit?

Yes, pears or berries can work.

What size pan should I use?

An 8×8 or 9×9 inch pan works well.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend.

Conclusion

Apple bars with butter are a delicious, comforting dessert that combines a rich crust with sweet, tender apples. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, they’re sure to become a favorite.

Apple Bars with Butter

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Buttery apple bars with a soft crust and sweet spiced apple filling, baked until golden and tender. A comforting dessert perfect for sharing or enjoying with a warm drink.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 12 bars
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 3/4 cup butter, softened
• 2 eggs
• 3 cups apples, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a baking pan.
2. Peel, core, and slice apples into thin pieces.
3. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
4. In another bowl, cream butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until smooth.
5. Add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well.
6. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture and combine.
7. Press half of the dough into the bottom of the prepared pan.
8. Spread sliced apples evenly over the base.
9. Sprinkle additional cinnamon if desired.
10. Crumble remaining dough over the apples.
11. Bake for 35–40 minutes until golden and set.
12. Cool before slicing into bars.

Notes

• Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.
• Add oats to the topping for extra texture.
• Mix in raisins or chopped nuts for variation.
• Drizzle with glaze after baking for added sweetness.
• Store at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate up to 5 days.
• Freeze for up to 2 months if needed.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar
• Calories: 260 kcal
• Sugar: 18 g
• Sodium: 150 mg
• Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 36 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 45 mg