Apple Snickerdoodle Bars (Print-Friendly Recipe)

Soft, cinnamon-swirled apple bars bring fall flavors and classic snickerdoodle comfort in every bite.

# Ingredients List:

→ Batter

01 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
02 - 1 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1/4 cup brown sugar
04 - 1 large egg
05 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
06 - 1 1/2 cups 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
11 - 1 medium apple, peeled and finely diced

→ Topping

12 - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
13 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

# How to Make It:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
02 - In a mixing bowl, beat together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
03 - Add egg and vanilla extract to the mixture and beat until well combined.
04 - In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg.
05 - Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
06 - Gently fold in the diced apple until evenly distributed.
07 - Evenly spread the batter into the prepared pan.
08 - Stir together granulated sugar and ground cinnamon for the topping, then sprinkle evenly over the batter.
09 - Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
10 - Allow bars to cool completely before cutting and serving.

# Extra Information:

01 - For best texture and clean cuts, cool bars fully before slicing. Toast spices gently in a pan before using for enhanced flavor. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender crumb. Try incorporating nuts or different apple varieties for a flavor variation. Use only softened butter.