Applesauce-Spice Bars
Moist, flavorful applesauce-spice bars feature warm spices and nuts, perfect for a quick snack or dessert. Easy to make and delicious for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grease a 13 x 9 x 2-inch pan and preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Beat applesauce, brown sugar, vegetable oil, and eggs on medium speed for 1 minute.
- Stir in the biscuit baking mix, pumpkin pie spice, and chopped nuts.
- Spread the batter evenly in the greased pan.
- Bake for about 25 minutes until set and golden.
- Cool the bars and frost with vanilla or chocolate frosting.
- Cut into 3 x 1-inch bars and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting half of the applesauce with mashed bananas, similar to Gina'S Banana Ice Cream. If you prefer a nut-free option, you can omit the nuts or use seeds like sunflower seeds. Additionally, feel free to adjust the spice level by adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg if desired.
Serving Suggestions
These Applesauce-Spice Bars are delightful on their own or can be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. For a festive touch, drizzle with chocolate frosting or serve alongside a warm cup of coffee. They also pair beautifully with Lazy Day Dessert Bars for a sweet dessert platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place individual bars in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm in an oven at 350°F for 5 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Applesauce-Spice Bars contains roughly 207 calories, with 2g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of iron (12% 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 homemade applesauce for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade applesauce can enhance the flavor of the bars. Just ensure it's unsweetened and has a similar consistency to store-bought applesauce for the best results.
What can I use instead of vegetable oil?
You can substitute vegetable oil with melted coconut oil or unsweetened applesauce for a healthier option. Both alternatives will keep the bars moist and delicious.
How can I make these bars gluten-free?
To make gluten-free Applesauce-Spice Bars, simply use a gluten-free biscuit baking mix instead of regular. This will ensure the bars remain tender while accommodating gluten sensitivities.
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).