There’s something magical about the combination of buttery pastry, warm cinnamon-spiced apples, and a hint of sweetness in every bite. These Flaky Apple Pie Bars take everything you love about classic apple pie and transform it into an easy, handheld treat.

I first made these bars on a crisp fall afternoon when I was craving apple pie but didn’t want to fuss with a full-sized dessert. They turned out so perfectly flaky and delicious that they’ve now become a staple in my kitchen year-round. Whether you're hosting a holiday gathering or just need a cozy dessert, this recipe is sure to be a hit.

Why You’ll Love These Flaky Apple Pie Bars

Get ready for a dessert that’s about to become your new favorite! These Flaky Apple Pie Bars are everything you love about homemade pie, but so much easier to make.

First, let’s talk about the crust. It’s irresistibly flaky, buttery, and perfectly golden brown, just like a traditional pie crust—but without all the rolling and crimping.

Then, there’s the filling. Juicy, spiced apples are layered between two sheets of pastry, creating a warm, comforting bite in every square. The flavors are pure nostalgia, reminding you of homemade apple pie fresh from the oven.

Best of all, these bars are great for sharing. Unlike a pie that needs slicing and serving, these bars are grab-and-go, making them perfect for potlucks, bake sales, or afternoon snacks.

And let’s not forget the easy factor. You don’t need any fancy techniques or special equipment. Just a simple dough, a delicious apple filling, and a little bit of baking magic.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of these Flaky Apple Pie Bars is in their simple, wholesome ingredients. Each component plays a key role in bringing out that classic apple pie flavor.

Apples – The heart of this recipe! I recommend using Granny Smith for their tartness, which balances the sweetness beautifully. If you prefer a sweeter bar, try Honeycrisp or Fuji apples.

Butter – A high-quality unsalted butter makes all the difference in the crust. It ensures the pastry turns out rich, flaky, and melt-in-your-mouth good.

Flour – All-purpose flour works perfectly for the crust. If you want an even flakier result, use a mix of all-purpose and pastry flour.

Cinnamon & Nutmeg – These warming spices bring out the natural sweetness of the apples and give the bars that signature apple pie taste.

Sugar – A mix of granulated sugar and brown sugar enhances the filling. The brown sugar adds a hint of caramel-like depth.

Egg Wash – A simple mix of egg and milk brushed on top gives the crust a beautiful golden color and slight crispiness.

If you have a pastry cutter or food processor, making the crust is even easier, but you can always use your hands for a more rustic approach.

How To Make These Flaky Apple Pie Bars

Making these bars is much simpler than baking a whole pie, but the results are just as impressive. Let’s walk through it step by step.

Start by preparing the dough. In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in cold butter using a pastry cutter (or your hands) until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. Add ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Split into two discs, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 30 minutes.

While the dough chills, make the apple filling. Peel, core, and slice your apples thinly. Toss them with sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a squeeze of lemon juice to keep them fresh and flavorful. Let them sit for about 10 minutes, allowing the juices to develop.

Roll out one portion of the dough into a rectangle and place it in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Press it slightly to fit the pan. Spread the apple mixture evenly over the crust. Roll out the second dough portion and place it over the apples, sealing the edges gently.

Brush the top with egg wash for a golden, glossy finish. Use a fork or knife to create small vent holes to let steam escape while baking.

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and flaky. Let the bars cool completely before slicing—this helps them hold their shape.

Storage Options

These Flaky Apple Pie Bars store beautifully, making them perfect for make-ahead treats.

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Refrigerator: Keep them chilled for up to 5 days for extra freshness.
Freezer: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay good for up to 3 months!

To reheat, pop them in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes or microwave for about 20 seconds for a warm, bakery-fresh taste.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is. Here are some fun ways to change things up!

Add Caramel – Drizzle salted caramel sauce over the apple filling before placing the top crust for an extra indulgent treat.

Try Different Fruits – Swap out apples for pears, peaches, or a mix of berries for a unique twist on these bars.

Make It Nutty – Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the apple layer for added crunch and flavor.

Go Gluten-Free – Use your favorite gluten-free flour blend for a GF-friendly version of these bars.

Spice It Up – Try adding cardamom or ginger for a slightly different but equally cozy flavor.

No matter how you make them, these Flaky Apple Pie Bars are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. So grab your apples, roll out that dough, and enjoy a little slice of comfort—one bar at a time!