Apple pie is a classic dessert that evokes feelings of home and comfort. But sometimes, making a traditional pie can feel like a daunting task. Enter Apple Pie Bars, the easier, more approachable cousin that delivers all the flavor without the fuss. These bars are incredibly simple to whip up and perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or any time you crave that warm, apple cinnamon goodness. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dessert that even beginners can master, these Apple Pie Bars Pioneer Woman style are your answer.
Author showcasing a slice of homemade apple pie bar with a white backdrop
What makes these apple pie bars so special? It’s the genius of transforming a pie into a slab. Baking in a 13×9 inch pan instead of a traditional pie dish is a game-changer. Not only does it simplify the process, eliminating the need for fancy crimping or decorative crust designs, but it also stretches the recipe further, giving you more delicious servings to share. Forget struggling with pie crusts – this recipe is all about ease and maximum flavor payoff.
Why These Apple Pie Bars Are a Must-Try
These aren’t just any apple pie bars; they are inspired by the hearty, home-style cooking that the Pioneer Woman is known for. Think rustic charm meets delicious simplicity. The recipe starts with a buttery, homemade pastry crust that is surprisingly easy to create. While pre-made crusts are convenient, the flavor and texture of this homemade version are truly worth the minimal effort. And the best part? The crust comes together in a food processor with just a few pulses!
The filling is a classic blend of sweet and spiced apples. We’re talking tender Granny Smith apples tossed with cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and just the right amount of sugar. The combination of the flaky, buttery crust and the gooey, spiced apple filling is simply irresistible. Even the topping is kept simple yet impactful – a brush of egg wash and a sprinkle of turbinado sugar add a beautiful sparkle and satisfying crunch.
Close-up of a hand holding an apple pie bar piece demonstrating the flaky crust and apple filling
Apple Pie Bars Recipe
This recipe is slightly adapted from a beloved classic and is sure to become a family favorite.
Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Yields: 16 bars
Course: Dessert, Pie
Cuisine: American, Dessert
Ingredients
For the Buttery Pastry Crust:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 12 Tbsp unsalted butter, very cold and cubed
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1/4 cup milk (2% or whole milk)
For the Spiced Apple Filling:
- 5 cups peeled, cored, and diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)
- 1/2 cup granulated white sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, lightly packed
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
For the Sparkling Topping:
- 1 egg white, lightly beaten
- 3 Tbsp turbinado sugar
Instructions
-
Get Started: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 13×9 inch light metal baking pan with foil or parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal. Spray the lining with cooking spray and set aside.
-
Make the Pastry Crust: In a food processor, combine the flour and salt; pulse briefly to mix. Add the cold, cubed butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the egg yolk and milk. Pulse until a soft dough forms and comes together into a ball. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate while you prepare the apple filling.
-
Prepare the Apple Filling: In a large bowl, combine the diced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, all-purpose flour, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Mix thoroughly to ensure the apples are evenly coated with the spices and sugars.
-
Assemble the Apple Pie Bars: Divide the chilled pastry dough in half. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one half of the dough into a 13×9 inch rectangle. Gently lift the dough by draping it over your rolling pin and unroll it into the prepared baking pan, pressing it into an even layer.
-
Pour the spiced apple filling over the pastry crust in the pan, including any juices from the bowl.
-
Roll out the remaining half of the pastry dough slightly larger than 13×9 inches. Carefully drape it over your rolling pin and unroll it over the apple pie filling. Gently tuck the edges of the top crust around the edges of the bottom crust to seal in the filling, creating a rustic edge.
-
Add the Sparkling Topping: Brush the top pie crust evenly with the lightly beaten egg white. Sprinkle the turbinado sugar generously over the egg-washed crust.
-
Bake to Golden Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbly and appears set.
-
Cool and Serve: Let the apple pie bars cool completely in the pan for at least 1 hour before slicing and serving. Cooling allows the filling to set up properly, making for cleaner slices.
Recipe Notes
- Apple Variety: For the best flavor and texture, use a combination of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples. Granny Smiths provide tartness and hold their shape well, while Honeycrisps add sweetness and a crisp-tender bite. You can also use all Granny Smith apples if preferred.
- Serving Suggestions: These apple pie bars are delicious served warm or at room temperature. For an extra touch of indulgence, serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Storage: Store leftover apple pie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Two apple pie bars stacked on a black cooling rack, showcasing the golden crust and apple filling
Enjoy these heavenly Apple Pie Bars! They are the perfect embodiment of comfort baking, easy to make, and guaranteed to be a hit with everyone who tries them. Have a wonderful day filled with sweet moments!
xo, Hayley
Looking for more apple dessert inspiration?
Slice of apple cider donut cake with cinnamon sticks and fork, inviting and deliciousApple Cider Doughnut Cake
