Apple Snickerdoodle Bars Recipe

Introduction

Apple Snickerdoodle Bars combine the warm spices of traditional snickerdoodles with tender bits of fresh apple for a delightful treat. These bars are perfect for cozy afternoons or sharing with friends and family.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups (180g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 medium apple, peeled and finely diced
• 2 tbsp (25g) granulated sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: Cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Step 3: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
4. Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
5. Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
6. Step 6: Fold the diced apple gently into the batter.
7. Step 7: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
8. Step 8: Combine the 2 tablespoons granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the batter.
9. Step 9: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
10. Step 10: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting and serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice contrast to the sweetness of the bars.
• For extra texture, sprinkle chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts on top before baking.
• Substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
• Make it gluten-free by using a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.

Storage

Store the apple snickerdoodle bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or until soft.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use canned or frozen apples instead of fresh?

Fresh apples are best for texture and flavor, but if using canned, drain well and pat dry to avoid excess moisture. Frozen apples should be thawed and drained similarly before use.

Can I make these bars dairy-free?

Yes, replace the unsalted butter with an equal amount of dairy-free margarine or coconut oil, and they will still turn out delicious.

Apple Snickerdoodle Bars Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 143 reviews

These Apple Snickerdoodle Bars combine the classic cinnamon-sugar flavors of snickerdoodles with tender, juicy pieces of apple in a soft, buttery bar. Perfectly spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, these bars offer a delightful twist on a traditional cookie that’s ideal for dessert or a sweet snack.

• Author: Mila
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 40-45 minutes
• Yield: 9 bars (3×3 squares) 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Bar Batter

• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups (180g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 medium apple, peeled and finely diced

Topping

• 2 tbsp (25g) granulated sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

Instructions

1. Preheat and prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.
2. Cream butter and sugars: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a smooth base for the batter.
3. Add egg and vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated and the mixture is homogenous.
4. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg to evenly distribute the spices and leavening agent.
5. Mix dry into wet: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients while mixing just until combined, avoiding overmixing to keep the bars tender.
6. Fold in apple: Gently fold the finely diced, peeled apple into the batter, ensuring even distribution throughout.
7. Spread batter in pan: Pour and evenly spread the batter into the prepared baking pan to create an even layer.
8. Add topping: In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon for the topping, then sprinkle it evenly over the batter in the pan.
9. Bake: Bake the bars in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Cool and serve: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before cutting into squares and serving to ensure clean cuts and the best texture.

Notes

• For best results, use a tart apple like Granny Smith to balance the sweetness.
• Make sure the butter is softened but not melted for proper creaming.
• You can store these bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate up to a week.
• These bars can be warmed slightly before serving to enhance the apple aroma and softness.
• To make the bars gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Keywords: apple snickerdoodle bars, apple dessert bars, snickerdoodle recipe, cinnamon apple bars, easy dessert bars