Delicious Apple Snickerdoodle Bars topped with cinnamon sugar

Why Make This Recipe

Apple Snickerdoodle Bars are a delightful treat that combines the sweet, warm flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg with the fresh taste of apples. They are easy to make and great for sharing with family and friends. This recipe is perfect for those who love both cookies and cake. The bars are soft, chewy, and have a wonderful cinnamon sugar topping that adds a special touch. If you are looking for a cozy dessert that fills your home with delicious smells, these bars are just the thing.

How to Make Apple Snickerdoodle Bars

Making Apple Snickerdoodle Bars is simple and requires only a few steps. You don't need special skills to whip up this tasty dessert. Just follow these clear directions to create a batch of these yummy bars.

Ingredients

½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
¼ cup (50g) brown sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 ½ cups (180g) all-purpose flour
½ tsp baking powder
¼ tsp salt
1 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp ground nutmeg
1 medium apple, peeled and finely diced
2 tbsp (25g) granulated sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take an 8x8-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper. This helps prevent the bars from sticking.
In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Beat in the egg and add the vanilla extract, mixing well until combined.
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg.
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture. Stir until everything is just combined. Do not overmix.
Fold in the finely diced apple, making sure it's evenly distributed in the batter.
Spread the batter into the prepared baking pan, leveling it with a spatula.
In a small bowl, mix the sugar and ground cinnamon for the topping. Sprinkle this mixture over the batter in the pan.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. The edges should turn golden, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting and serving.

How to Serve Apple Snickerdoodle Bars

Apple Snickerdoodle Bars are delightful on their own but can also be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat. Try cutting them into small squares for a perfect bite-sized dessert. They are great for any occasion, whether it is a family gathering, a weekend dessert, or even a special celebration.

How to Store Apple Snickerdoodle Bars

To store your Apple Snickerdoodle Bars, first, make sure they are completely cool. Place them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. You can leave them at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider putting them in the refrigerator, where they can last about a week. For even longer storage, you can freeze the bars. Wrap them well and store them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw them at room temperature when you want to enjoy them again.

Tips to Make Apple Snickerdoodle Bars

Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
Choose a sweet and firm apple, like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, for the best flavor and texture.
To keep your bars chewy, avoid overbaking them. Start checking for doneness at 25 minutes.
Experiment by adding nuts or raisins for added texture if you like.

Variation

You can easily adapt this recipe by using different types of fruit. For instance, try substituting diced pears for the apples or mix in some blueberries. Each fruit will add its own unique flavor. You can also adjust the spices by adding nutmeg, allspice, or even ginger if you want a different twist.

FAQs

Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?

Yes, you can use brown sugar, but it will change the texture and taste slightly. The bars may become softer and have a deeper flavor.

Do I have to peel the apple?

Peeling the apple gives a smoother texture to the bars. If you prefer, you can leave the skin on for extra nutrients and texture, just make sure to wash the apple thoroughly.

Can I scale the recipe for a larger batch?

Yes, you can double the recipe and use a larger pan, such as a 9x13-inch pan. Just be sure to adjust the baking time if necessary.

Conclusion

Apple Snickerdoodle Bars are a wonderful dessert that brings together the flavors of apples and cinnamon in a soft and chewy treat. They are easy to make and perfect for sharing. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced cook, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy baking, sharing, and savoring these delicious bars!