Apple Snickerdoodle Bars (Print-Friendly Version)

Tender bars featuring warm spices and diced apple, ideal for a comforting fall treat.

# Ingredients List:

→ Wet Ingredients

01 - 113 grams unsalted butter, softened
02 - 200 grams granulated sugar
03 - 50 grams brown sugar
04 - 1 large egg
05 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Dry Ingredients

06 - 180 grams all-purpose flour
07 - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
08 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
09 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
10 - 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

→ Filling and Topping

11 - 1 medium apple, peeled and finely diced
12 - 25 grams granulated sugar
13 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

# Detailed Cooking Steps:

01 - Preheat the oven to 175°C and line an 20×20 cm baking pan with parchment paper.
02 - Beat the softened butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
03 - Add the egg and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture and mix until fully combined.
04 - Whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a separate bowl.
05 - Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined to avoid overmixing.
06 - Gently fold the finely diced apple into the batter ensuring even distribution.
07 - Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
08 - Combine 25 grams granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon and sprinkle evenly over the batter.
09 - Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
10 - Allow to cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars to ensure clean slices.

# Helpful Hints:

01 - Use a firm, slightly tart apple variety to balance sweetness and maintain texture.
02 - Ensure butter is softened to room temperature for easier creaming.
03 - Cooling bars fully before slicing improves presentation and slice integrity.