Warm and Spiced Apple Bars – A Cozy Homemade Treat

 

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50–55 minutes
• Cooling Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: About 1 hour and 15 minutes
• Servings: 12 bars

Ingredients

To make these warm and spiced apple bars, you will need:

• 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and finely diced
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

 

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking, then set it aside.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a medium mixing bowl, use an electric mixer on medium speed to cream the butter and sugar together. Beat for about 2–3 minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients

Crack in the egg and pour in the vanilla extract. Continue beating for another minute until the mixture is fully combined and fluffy.

Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the following:

• 1 cup flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon cloves

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of the bars.

Step 6: Fold in the Apples

Gently fold in the diced apples using a spatula. Ensure that the apple pieces are evenly distributed throughout the batter for consistent flavor in every bite.

Step 7: Bake the Apple Bars

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 50–55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cooling and Serving

Once baked, remove the apple bars from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Slice into 12 bars and serve warm or at room temperature.

For an extra indulgent treat, pair these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

 

These Warm and Spiced Apple Bars are a simple yet satisfying treat that perfectly combines soft, buttery textures with the rich flavors of apples and spices. Whether you’re making them for a weekend snack, a cozy dessert, or a holiday gathering, these bars are sure to become a family favorite.

With an easy-to-follow process and ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to bake something warm, flavorful, and delicious. Try them today and enjoy the comforting taste of homemade apple bars!