Apple pie is one of the most beloved desserts around the world, but sometimes you just want the delicious flavors without the hassle of making a traditional pie. That’s where these Simple Whole Wheat Apple Pie Bars come in! With all the sweetness, spices, and tender apple filling, this recipe is a simplified version of apple pie. It’s quick to make, perfect for snacking, and a wonderful treat for any time of year.
What is the Simple Whole Wheat Apple Pie Bars Recipe?
These Simple Whole Wheat Apple Pie Bars are a fantastic alternative to traditional apple pie. By using whole wheat flour for the crust and crumble topping, these bars are a bit more wholesome and provide a nuttier flavor. The filling is made from fresh, juicy apples, sweetened naturally with maple syrup, and spiced with cinnamon for that comforting pie flavor. The bars are easy to prepare, and the result is a delightful dessert or snack that can be enjoyed by everyone in the family!
This recipe is perfect if you’re craving something delicious but don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a healthier twist on the classic apple pie that makes it perfect for any occasion!
Origin of Simple Whole Wheat Apple Pie Bars
Apple pie is an iconic dessert that traces its roots to early European settlers in America. The apple pie we know today evolved from centuries of baking traditions in England and Holland, where pies were made with apples and sweetened with sugar. Over the years, apple pie became a symbol of comfort, home, and family gatherings.
However, the idea of making apple pie bars is a more modern innovation, offering a simplified method that retains all the delicious flavors of traditional apple pie. These Whole Wheat Apple Pie Bars are a healthy variation, using whole wheat flour for added nutrients and fiber.
Ingredients (For 9–12 Bars)
For the Crust & Crumble Topping:
- 1 ½ cups whole wheat flour
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats
- ½ cup brown sugar (lightly packed)
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted (or coconut oil for a vegan option)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Apple Filling:
- 3 medium apples, peeled and chopped (about 2 ½ cups)
- 1 tablespoon whole wheat flour
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon lemon juice
- Optional: A pinch of nutmeg or ginger (for extra flavor)
Step-by-Step Directions and Preparation Method
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is ready when it’s time to bake your apple pie bars.
2. Prepare the Pan
Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang. This will make it easier to remove the bars once they’re baked.
3. Make the Crust & Crumble
In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, oats, brown sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir until everything is well mixed.
Next, pour in the melted butter (or coconut oil for a vegan version) and vanilla extract. Mix everything together until the mixture is crumbly but holds together when pressed.
Set aside about ¾ cup of the mixture for the crumble topping. Press the remaining mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan to form the crust.
4. Make the Apple Filling
In a separate bowl, toss the peeled and chopped apples with whole wheat flour, maple syrup (or brown sugar), cinnamon, and lemon juice. If you want to add extra warmth and flavor, feel free to include a pinch of nutmeg or ginger. Mix the apples until they are evenly coated with the dry ingredients and syrup.
5. Assemble the Bars
Evenly spread the apple mixture over the prepared crust. Be sure to distribute the apples so that each bar has a generous serving of filling.
Sprinkle the reserved crumbly topping evenly over the apples.
6. Bake the Bars
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The bars are done when the top is golden brown, and the apples are tender. Keep an eye on them towards the end to avoid overbaking.
7. Cool & Slice
Once baked, let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing them into squares or rectangles. This step ensures that the bars set properly and are easier to cut.
Tips and Variations
Vegan Option
To make these bars vegan, simply substitute the unsalted butter with coconut oil. For the sweetener, you can stick with maple syrup, which is already plant-based.
Add-ins for Extra Flavor
Want to give your apple pie bars more texture? Consider adding a handful of chopped walnuts or raisins to the apple filling. They’ll complement the flavors of the apple and the crumble topping beautifully.
Storage
These apple pie bars are easy to store! Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want them to last a bit longer, refrigerate them for up to 5 days.
FAQs About Whole Wheat Apple Pie Bars
Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes! If you prefer, you can substitute the whole wheat flour with regular all-purpose flour. However, using whole wheat flour gives the bars a nuttier, heartier flavor and added nutrients.
Can I use a different sweetener?
Absolutely! You can swap out the maple syrup for honey or agave nectar. Keep in mind that each sweetener has a slightly different flavor and sweetness level, so adjust to your taste.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, these apple pie bars are perfect for making ahead of time. You can bake them and store them in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze them for longer storage. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container.
Can I add other fruits to the filling?
Certainly! You can mix in other fruits like pears or cranberries with the apples for a fun twist on the classic recipe. Just be sure to adjust the sweetness based on the fruits you use.
Conclusion: Whole Wheat Apple Pie Bars
These Simple Whole Wheat Apple Pie Bars are a wholesome, easy, and delicious treat that brings the comforting flavors of apple pie in a more convenient form. Whether you’re looking for a healthier snack or a simple dessert to serve at your next gathering, these bars are sure to please everyone. They’re quick to make, and you can easily adjust the recipe to suit your dietary preferences, whether vegan or gluten-free. Give these bars a try, and enjoy the perfect combination of sweet, spiced apples and a buttery crumble topping.
[tasty-recipe id=”15265″]
