Introduction
Dive into the comforting embrace of these applesauce bars, where the homely warmth of applesauce meets the indulgent touch of cream cheese frosting.
We’ve always loved the magic of baking with applesauce. It provides the richness usually provided with butter or oil without the problematic side effects.
These bars are a perfect treat for any occasion, offering a delightful blend of textures and flavors that are sure to satisfy your sweet cravings. We highly recommend baking these with fresh made applesauce during peak Apple Picking Season. Freeze the bars and whip up a fresh batch of cream cheese frosting throughout the winter.
Ingredients
For the Applesauce Bars:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups unsweetened applesauce
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper and lightly grease it with butter or non-stick spray.
- Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices to combine and set aside.
- Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well with each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the applesauce, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Stir in the nuts if using.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Prepare the Frosting: While the bars are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Frost: Once the bars are completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
- Serve: Cut the frosted bars into squares and serve. Enjoy the delightful blend of applesauce and cream cheese frosting in every bite.
Notes
- Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Variations: Feel free to add raisins or dried cranberries to the batter for an extra burst of flavor.