Applesauce Spice Bars Recipe: Moist Spiced Dessert Bars

Description

Ingredients

1. For the Bars:
   • 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
   • 1 cup brown sugar, lightly packed
   • 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or coconut oil for extra richness)
   • 2 large eggs
   • 1 tsp vanilla extract
   • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
   • 1 tsp baking powder
   • 1/2 tsp baking soda
   • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
   • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
   • 1/4 tsp allspice
   • 1/4 tsp salt
2. For the Cinnamon Glaze:
   • 1 cup powdered sugar
   • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
   • 2–3 tbsp milk, more as needed for drizzling consistency

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare your pan

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the wet ingredients

1. In a large bowl, whisk together applesauce, brown sugar, oil, eggs and vanilla until smooth and uniform.

Step 3: Combine the dry ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, sift or whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice and salt to distribute the spices evenly.

Step 4: Combine and bake

1. Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined—avoid overmixing. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.

Step 5: Bake to perfection

1. Bake 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Let the pan cool on a wire rack.

Step 6: Make the cinnamon glaze

1. Whisk powdered sugar, cinnamon and 2 tablespoons milk in a small bowl. Add more milk a little at a time until you reach a smooth, pourable glaze for drizzling.

Step 7: Glaze and serve

1. Once the bars are fully cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top. Allow the glaze to set briefly, then slice into squares and serve.

Notes

Cooking Tips for Best Results

Use freshly ground or recently purchased spices for the most vibrant flavor—cinnamon and nutmeg lose potency over time. Stir glaze with a whisk to avoid lumps and test thickness on a spoon before drizzling. If you prefer a less sweet finish, reduce the powdered sugar in the glaze slightly or brush a thin layer of melted butter before glazing to help the glaze adhere evenly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these applesauce spice bars warm or at room temperature. They pair beautifully with hot apple cider, chai tea or a cup of coffee. Top with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a sprinkle of chopped toasted nuts for texture and contrast.

Nutritional Information

Approximate per serving:

• Calories: 150
• Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Protein: 2g

Storage & Leftovers

Store cooled bars in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or up to one week refrigerated. For longer storage, freeze individual squares wrapped tightly for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use homemade applesauce?
A: Yes—homemade applesauce works great and adds a fresh apple flavor. Use unsweetened for better control over sweetness.

Q: Can I freeze these bars?
A: Yes. Wrap bars individually or in layers separated by parchment and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw before glazing, or glaze after thawing for best appearance.

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