Go Back
Flaky Apple Pie Bars
Sarah namedy

Flaky Apple Pie Bars

Buttery, flaky crust layered with spiced apple filling and a sweet crumb topping — these apple pie bars are the perfect handheld version of a classic apple pie. Ideal for fall gatherings, bake sales, or an anytime cozy treat.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 310
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (for crust)
  • 1 cup cold butter, cubed (for crust)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for crust)
  • 1/4 tsp salt (for crust)
  • 1/4 cup ice-cold water (for crust)
  • 6 cups apples, peeled and thinly sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for filling)
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed (for filling)
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (for filling)
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for topping)
  • 1/4 cup butter, softened (for topping)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for topping)
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed (for topping)

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking pan
  • Large mixing bowls
  • Pastry cutter or fork
  • knife
  • cutting board
  • Spatula

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
  2. Make crust: Combine flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in cold butter until coarse crumbs form. Add ice water until dough comes together. Press evenly into pan. Bake 15 minutes until lightly golden.
  3. Make filling: Toss sliced apples with lemon juice, sugars, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well coated.
  4. Spread apple mixture evenly over baked crust.
  5. Make topping: Mix flour, sugars, and butter until crumbly. Sprinkle evenly over apples.
  6. Bake 35–40 minutes until topping is golden and apples are tender.
  7. Cool completely before cutting into squares.

Notes

For best results, use tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Add chopped pecans or oats to the topping for extra crunch. Bars cut cleaner after cooling completely or chilling. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream for a classic combo!