Dessert · cuisine

Apple Bars

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14 ingredients Cuisine: Page updated October 2026

Apple bars are a quick tray bake that starts with a store-bought baking mix, so there is no dough to roll or chill. A crumbly spiced base is pressed into the pan and topped with sliced apples tossed in lemon or grapefruit juice, which keeps them from browning and adds a little sharpness. Lining the pan with parchment lets you lift the whole slab out and cut it cleanly once it has cooled.

Instructions

Mix the first measure of baking mix with the egg, the ¼ cup of brown sugar and the first set of spices in a bowl. Rub in the butter with your fingers until the mixture is crumbly and not sticky.

Line an 8 by 8-inch (20 by 20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper. Press the base mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan, and up the sides a little if you like.

Toss the sliced apples with the splash of grapefruit or lemon juice so every slice is lightly coated. Stir together the second set of cinnamon, ginger and nutmeg with the 3 tablespoons of baking mix and the 3 tablespoons of brown sugar.

Toss most of this spice mix with the apples, keeping a little back. Tip the apples onto the base and spread them in an even layer, then sprinkle the reserved spice mix over the top.

Heat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 30 minutes.

Let the pan cool, then lift the slab out by the corners of the parchment and set it on a plate. Cut it into bars.

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