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Apple Snickerdoodle Bars Recipe

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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