Apple Bar
A moist and flavorful apple bar featuring cinnamon and nuts, perfect for a sweet snack or dessert that appeals to all ages and tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Add sugar, vanilla, and eggs to the melted and cooled margarine and mix well.
- Sift together flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon in a separate bowl.
- Fold the sifted dry ingredients into the sugar and egg mixture until combined.
- Peel and dice the apples, then fold them into the batter.
- Add chopped nuts if desired and gently fold into the mixture.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9 x 13-inch baking pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the margarine with unsweetened applesauce. You can also use brown sugar instead of white for added depth. If you're short on time, pre-diced apples can be used, but fresh apples yield the best texture. Ensure not to overmix the batter to keep the bars tender. To enhance the spices, try adding a pinch of nutmeg.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Apple Bars warm or at room temperature, dusted with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness. They pair wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for dessert. For a delightful brunch option, consider serving alongside a fruit salad or a slice of Maryann'S Banana Cake. These bars are also great for lunchboxes or as an afternoon snack.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Apple Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, simply warm individual pieces in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or pop them in a 350°F oven for a few minutes until warmed through. This helps retain their moistness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Apple Bar contains roughly 344 calories, with 3g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 780mg per serving (34% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! Any sweet or tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work well in this recipe. Mixing different varieties can enhance the flavor and texture of the bars. Just make sure to peel and dice them evenly for consistent baking.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that the baking powder is gluten-free as well. The texture may vary slightly, but the flavors will remain delicious.
Can I freeze the Apple Bars?
Yes, these bars freeze well! Once cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as desired.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).