Applesauce Spice Bars Recipe: Heavenly Fall Treat

Experience the comfort of autumn with these divine Applesauce Spice Bars. This heavenly fall treat combines the warmth of spices with the natural sweetness of applesauce, creating a perfect balance of flavors that are sure to delight your taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Applesauce Spice Bars are a must-make treat for any fall gathering or cozy night in. With their moist texture and tantalizing spice blend, they are a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds. The recipe is simple yet yields a perfect blend of classic fall flavors, making it an ideal dessert option without the fuss.

What sets these bars apart is their adaptability to various dietary needs. Whether you are looking for a quick dessert or a healthier sweet treat option, these bars are sure to fulfill your cravings. Plus, the rich aroma of spices will fill your home with the scent of fall.

Context/Background

The applesauce spice bar is a classic American dessert that has been enjoyed for generations. Traditionally made in the fall when apples are at their peak, these bars were a staple in many households as a way to use up homemade applesauce. The addition of spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg reflects the comforting flavors that are synonymous with the autumn season.

This recipe combines easy-to-find ingredients with a straightforward process, ensuring that anyone can create these delicious bars with minimal effort. It’s a nod to the simpler times, where home baking was a cherished ritual shared among family and friends.

Recipe Details

Serves: 12

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 cup applesauce
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine applesauce, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Mix until well combined.
3. Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the mixture and beat until smooth.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow bars to cool in the pan before slicing and serving.

Tips for Perfect Applesauce Spice Bars

• Ensure the applesauce is unsweetened to maintain the right balance of sweetness.
• For extra flavor, consider adding a handful of chopped nuts or raisins to the batter.
• Let the bars cool completely before cutting to make neat slices.
• Use fresh spices for the best flavor; older spices can lose their potency over time.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy these Applesauce Spice Bars warm with a dollop of whipped cream, or serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly decadent treat. They’re also delightful with a cup of hot tea or coffee for an afternoon snack.

Storage and Leftovers

Store these bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week to keep them fresh. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Final Thoughts

These Applesauce Spice Bars are a delightful way to savor the flavors of fall with a recipe that’s both easy and rewarding to make. They capture the cozy essence of the season, offering a comforting sweetness and spice that’s perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe today and bring a taste of autumn to your table!

Recipe Notes

• Swap the vegetable oil for coconut oil for a slightly different flavor profile.
• If you prefer a sweeter bar, add an extra tablespoon of sugar or sprinkle some on top before baking.
• For a gluten-free version, use a one-to-one gluten-free flour substitute.