How to Make the Best Apple Pie Bars

Apple pie bars offer all the delicious flavors of a classic apple pie in a convenient, easy-to-make bar form. They feature a buttery shortbread crust, a spiced apple filling, and a crumbly streusel topping. These bars are perfect for fall gatherings, Thanksgiving, or whenever you’re craving a cozy dessert without the hassle of making a full pie.


1. Why You’ll Love Apple Pie Bars

These apple pie bars are easier to make than a traditional pie but just as delicious. They’re portable, sliceable, and great for feeding a crowd.

Benefits of This Recipe

  • Easier Than Pie: No rolling out pie dough.
  • Perfectly Spiced: Warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar bring out the best apple flavors.
  • Great for Any Occasion: Ideal for holidays, potlucks, or afternoon snacks.

Best Apples for Apple Pie Bars

  • Granny Smith: Tart and firm, perfect for baking.
  • Honeycrisp: Sweet, crisp, and flavorful.
  • Fuji: Naturally sweet with a juicy texture.
  • Braeburn: A balanced mix of sweet and tart.

2. Ingredients for Apple Pie Bars

For the Shortbread Crust:

  • All-Purpose Flour: 2 cups
  • Unsalted Butter: 1 cup (cold, cubed)
  • Powdered Sugar: ½ cup
  • Salt: ¼ teaspoon

For the Apple Filling:

  • Apples: 4 cups, peeled and thinly sliced
  • Brown Sugar: ½ cup
  • Granulated Sugar: ¼ cup
  • Cinnamon: 1½ teaspoons
  • Nutmeg: ¼ teaspoon
  • Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon (thickens the filling)
  • Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon (prevents browning and adds brightness)

For the Streusel Topping:

  • All-Purpose Flour: 1 cup
  • Brown Sugar: ½ cup
  • Butter: ½ cup (melted)
  • Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon

For the Optional Glaze:

  • Powdered Sugar: ¾ cup
  • Milk: 2 tablespoons
  • Vanilla Extract: ½ teaspoon

3. Making the Shortbread Crust

1. Preheat the Oven:

  • Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.

2. Make the Shortbread Dough:

  • In a large bowl, combine flour, powdered sugar, and salt.
  • Cut in cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

3. Press and Bake:

  • Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish.
  • Bake for 15 minutes, until lightly golden.

4. Preparing the Apple Filling

1. Slice the Apples:

  • Peel and slice the apples into thin pieces.

2. Mix the Filling:

  • In a bowl, toss apples with brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cornstarch, and lemon juice.

3. Spread Over the Crust:

  • Evenly layer the apple mixture over the pre-baked crust.

5. Making the Streusel Topping

1. Combine Ingredients:

  • In a bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon until crumbly.

2. Sprinkle Over Apples:

  • Evenly distribute the streusel over the apple layer.

6. Baking and Serving

1. Bake Until Golden:

  • Bake for 35-40 minutes until the top is golden brown and apples are tender.

2. Cool Completely:

  • Let cool in the pan for 30 minutes before slicing.

3. Add Optional Glaze:

  • Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract and drizzle over the bars.

7. Tips for Perfect Apple Pie Bars

  • Use Cold Butter: Helps create a firm, buttery crust.
  • Choose the Right Apples: A mix of tart and sweet varieties works best.
  • Let the Bars Cool: This allows the layers to set before slicing.
  • Store Properly: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

8. Variations to Try

1. Caramel Apple Pie Bars:

  • Drizzle caramel sauce over the bars before serving.

2. Nutty Streusel Bars:

  • Add ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts to the streusel topping.

3. Gluten-Free Apple Pie Bars:

  • Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute for the crust and streusel.

4. Spiced Apple Bars:

  • Add ¼ teaspoon cloves or ginger for extra warmth.

9. FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought pie filling instead of fresh apples?

Yes, but fresh apples provide a better texture and flavor.

2. How do I make these bars less sweet?

Reduce the sugar in the filling by ¼ cup or use tart apples like Granny Smith.

3. Can I freeze apple pie bars?

Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

4. How do I reheat them?

Warm in the oven at 300°F for 10 minutes or microwave for 30 seconds.

5. What’s the best way to cut clean slices?

Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts.

6. Can I make these bars vegan?

Yes, use vegan butter and replace the glaze with coconut milk.

7. What if my crust is too crumbly?

Press it firmly into the pan before baking to help it hold together.

8. Can I make them ahead of time?

Yes, prepare them a day in advance and store in the fridge.

9. How many bars does this recipe make?

About 12-16 bars, depending on how they are sliced.

10. Can I add raisins or cranberries?

Yes, mix ½ cup dried fruit into the apple filling for extra texture.


Apple pie bars are a delicious, fuss-free alternative to traditional apple pie. With a buttery shortbread crust, spiced apple filling, and crunchy streusel topping, these bars deliver all the comforting flavors of apple pie in an easy-to-eat form. Try them warm with a scoop of ice cream or enjoy them as a grab-and-go treat.

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