Name: Apple Pie Bars with Streusel Topping
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (divided); 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed (divided); 5 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 tbsp cornstarch; 1 tsp ground cinnamon (divided); 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup brown sugar

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a crowd-pleaser with minimal effort and maximum flavor. The layers of buttery crust, tender spiced apples, and crumbly topping make every bite indulgent and satisfying. It’s ideal for potlucks, bake sales, or simply a sweet treat with your afternoon coffee. Plus, it’s easier to make and serve than a traditional pie, with all the same delicious payoff.

Ingredients

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

All-purpose flour
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Salt
Ground cinnamon
Unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
Apples (peeled, cored, and thinly sliced – Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best)
Lemon juice
Cornstarch
Vanilla extract

Directions

Preheat your oven and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
Make the crust by mixing flour, sugar, and salt, then cutting in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press into the bottom of the pan and bake until lightly golden.
Prepare the apple filling by tossing sliced apples with sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, cornstarch, and vanilla. Spread this mixture evenly over the baked crust.
Make the streusel topping by combining flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon, then cutting in butter until crumbly. Sprinkle generously over the apple layer.
Bake until the top is golden brown and the apples are tender.
Cool completely before slicing into bars for clean cuts and easier serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 16 bars.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Bake time: 50–55 minutes
Cooling time: 1 hour

Variations

Add nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts in the streusel topping add a nice crunch and nutty flavor.
Caramel drizzle: Add a drizzle of caramel sauce on top before serving for extra indulgence.
Use different fruits: Swap out some of the apples for pears or cranberries for a seasonal twist.
Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free flour blend in both the crust and topping.
Add spices: Try adding nutmeg or allspice along with the cinnamon for more depth of flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store the apple pie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
To reheat, warm individual bars in the microwave for 10–15 seconds, or place them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5–7 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

What kind of apples work best for apple pie bars?

Granny Smith apples are great for their tartness and firmness, but Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Braeburn also work well.

Can I freeze apple pie bars?

Yes, once cooled, wrap the bars tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Do I need to peel the apples?

Yes, peeling the apples ensures a softer texture in the finished bars.

Can I use store-bought pie crust?

This recipe uses a shortbread-style crust, but if you prefer, you could press store-bought pie dough into the pan as a shortcut.

Why is my crust soggy?

A soggy crust may result from not pre-baking it long enough or not letting the bars cool properly before slicing.

Can I use apple pie filling from a can?

For convenience, canned apple pie filling can be used, though the flavor and texture are best with fresh apples.

How do I get clean slices?

Allow the bars to cool completely, then use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, they’re perfect for making a day in advance. Just store them covered in the fridge and bring to room temperature before serving.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative like vegan butter or margarine.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Use a larger baking pan and adjust the baking time slightly to ensure even cooking.

Conclusion

Apple Pie Bars with Streusel Topping are everything you love about classic apple pie, simplified into easy, shareable bars. With their buttery base, tender apple filling, and crunchy topping, they’re sure to become a seasonal staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re serving a crowd or treating yourself, these bars deliver comfort and flavor in every bite.