Ingredients for Best Apple Bars
- 1 cup (2 sticks) softened butter and ¼ cup butter
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 3 cups grated apples (about 3 medium apples)
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 ½ cups sifted powdered sugar
- ½ cup chopped pecans (optional)
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How to Make Best Apple Bars
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x9 inch baking pan.
- Cream together 1 cup (2 sticks) softened butter and 1 ½ cups granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in 2 large eggs one at a time, then stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, ½ teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in 3 cups grated apples (about 3 medium apples).
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- While the bars are baking, prepare the caramel frosting: In a small saucepan, combine ½ cup packed brown sugar, ¼ cup butter, and ¼ cup milk.
- Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 2 ½ minutes, stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat and gradually whisk in 1 ½ cups sifted powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Let the bars cool slightly in the pan before spreading the caramel frosting evenly over the top.
- Sprinkle with ½ cup chopped pecans (optional).
- Let the bars cool completely before cutting into squares.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to retain moisture.
Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)
Sodium
6 g
Sugar
83g
Fat
18g
Carbs
8g
