Picture the warm aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg filling your kitchen as you bake a batch of Applesauce Bars.
These delightful treats aren’t only simple to make but also offer a comforting and cozy indulgence.
As the applesauce blends with sugar and spices, the batter transforms into a moist, flavorful dessert.
So why wait? Let’s bring this delicious creation to life and enjoy its inviting charm together.
Kitchen Tools Required
- 1 Baking pan
- 1 Mixing bowl
- 1 Whisk or electric mixer
- 1 Rubber spatula
- 1 Measuring cup set
- 1 Measuring spoon set
- 1 Cooling rack
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Cook & Prep Time
To efficiently manage your time while making Applesauce Bars, follow this timeline:
- Preparation (15 minutes)
- 0:00 – 2:00: Gather all ingredients and equipment.
- 2:00 – 5:00: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease the baking pan.
- 5:00 – 10:00: In a mixing bowl, combine applesauce, sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well blended.
- 10:00 – 12:00: In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- 12:00 – 14:00: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- 14:00 – 15:00: Fold in the chopped walnuts if using.
- Cooking (25 minutes)
- 15:00 – 40:00: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading evenly with the spatula. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Resting (10 minutes)
- 40:00 – 50:00: Allow the bars to cool in the pan on a cooling rack for 10 minutes before cutting into squares.
Additional Time for Reading and Review (5 minutes)
– -5:00 – 0:00: Spend a few minutes before starting to read through the recipe and instructions completely to verify understanding and preparation.
Adjust the timing as needed based on your pace and any additional garnishes you might want to add.
Recipe Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease the baking pan.
In a mixing bowl, combine applesauce, sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well blended.
In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Fold in the chopped walnuts if using.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading evenly with the spatula.
Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the bars to cool in the pan on a cooling rack for 10 minutes before cutting into squares.
Serving Tips
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve warm applesauce bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic, creamy pairing.
- Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of the bars for a light and fluffy contrast.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle caramel sauce over the bars for an extra layer of sweetness and indulgence.
- Fresh Fruit: Garnish with fresh apple slices or berries to enhance the fruity notes and add a pop of color.
- Hot Beverage: Pair with a cup of hot coffee or tea to complement the warm spices and create a cozy dessert experience.
Storage
To store applesauce bars, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week.
Alternatively, freeze for three months.
Freezing
To freeze applesauce bars, first cool completely.
Then cut into squares.
Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap.
Place in an airtight container.
Freeze for up to three months.
Reheating
To reheat applesauce bars, gently warm them in a 300°F oven for 5-10 minutes.
Or microwave individually for 20-30 seconds for a quick, moist result.
Avoid overheating to prevent drying out.
Final Thoughts
Applesauce Bars are a delightful dessert that combines the sweet and tangy flavor of applesauce with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.
They’re easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
Whether you add walnuts for a bit of crunch or dust them with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness, these bars are sure to be a hit.
Consider experimenting with whole wheat flour for added texture and nutrition.
Adjust the spices to suit your taste for a truly personalized treat.
Enjoy these classic American dessert bars with family and friends.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Sweetened Applesauce Instead of Unsweetened?
You can use sweetened applesauce, but reduce the sugar to maintain balance. The sweetened applesauce will add a richer, more caramelized flavor. Taste the batter as you mix to confirm it doesn’t become overly sweet.
Are There Any Egg Substitutes for This Recipe?
For an egg substitute, try using mashed bananas or Greek yogurt. They both add moisture and a hint of flavor. Stir them in until silky smooth, ensuring your bars retain that delightful, springy texture.
How Can I Make These Bars Gluten-Free?
Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend, ensuring it’s a 1:1 ratio. This switch offers a tender crumb. Enhance the texture by adding a pinch of xanthan gum, creating a harmonious balance of flavor and structure.
What Other Nuts Can Be Used Instead of Walnuts?
You can substitute walnuts with pecans for a buttery crunch, or almonds for a delicate flavor. Try hazelnuts for a rich, nutty essence. Each nut will infuse your creation with unique textures and aromatic notes.
Can I Add Chocolate Chips to the Batter?
Absolutely, you can fold chocolate chips into the batter for a delightful twist! The rich, melty chocolate complements the warm spices beautifully, creating a luscious texture and irresistible aroma that elevates your dessert to indulgent heights.
Applesauce Bars
Equipment
- 1 Baking pan 9×13-inch
- 1 Mixing bowl
- 1 whisk or electric mixer
- 1 Rubber spatula
- 1 measuring cup set
- 1 measuring spoon set
- 1 Cooling rack
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts optional
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease the baking pan.
- In a mixing bowl, combine applesauce, sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well blended.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the chopped walnuts if using.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading evenly with the spatula.
- Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bars to cool in the pan on a cooling rack for 10 minutes before cutting into squares.
Notes
