Apple Squares

These soft and fragrant apple cinnamon squares are the kind of homemade treat that fills your kitchen with warm, comforting aromas.

Fresh chopped apples and crunchy walnuts are folded into a lightly sweet batter, then topped with a dusting of cinnamon sugar that creates a delicate, slightly crisp finish on top.

Each bite delivers the perfect balance of tender texture and cozy spice.

Perfect for an afternoon snack, dessert, or even a sweet breakfast bite, these easy apple bars come together quickly with simple pantry ingredients.

They slice beautifully into neat squares and are just as delicious the next day—if they last that long.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 16 bars

Ingredients

  • 1 cup sifted all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons ground cinnamon, divided
  • 2 tablespoons white sugar
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup white sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup chopped apple
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts

Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9-inch square baking pan.
  2. In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon.
  3. In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of white sugar with the remaining 2 teaspoons of cinnamon. Set aside.
  4. In a large bowl, mix the brown sugar, 1/2 cup white sugar, and melted butter until smooth and well combined.
  5. Stir in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
  6. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
  7. Fold in the chopped apple and walnuts until evenly distributed.
  8. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
  9. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the top.
  10. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top springs back lightly when pressed.
  11. Allow to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.

Chefs Notes

  • Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture.
  • For extra moisture, slightly increase the apple to 3/4 cup.
  • Swap walnuts with pecans or omit nuts entirely if preferred.
  • Serve warm with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
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