Apple Squares Dessert

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There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of cinnamon and apples baking in the oven. It brings back memories of cozy kitchens, crisp autumn days, and sweet homemade treats. Apple squares are one of those timeless desserts that never go out of style—and this recipe takes it to the next level.

Apple squares are essentially soft, spiced apple cake bars packed with tender apple chunks and topped with a golden crust. They strike the perfect balance between rustic and refined. They’re not too sweet, just the right amount of spice, and incredibly satisfying with a cup of coffee or glass of milk.

This dessert is ideal for any occasion—serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, pack it in lunchboxes, or bring a tray to a holiday gathering. These apple squares come together quickly, travel well, and are loved by both kids and adults.

What sets this recipe apart is the ratio of apple to batter. We don’t skimp on the apples. Each bite is loaded with real fruit, softened just enough to melt in your mouth while still holding a bit of bite. A touch of cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla makes the flavors pop without overpowering.

You don’t need a mixer or any fancy tools to whip these up. Just a bowl, a spoon, and a baking dish. The texture lands somewhere between a cake and a blondie—moist, tender, and chewy with a light crust that forms naturally as it bakes.

They’re also great for make-ahead treats. You can refrigerate or freeze them, and they reheat beautifully in the microwave or oven. This recipe is about simplicity and real flavor. It’s not about decorating or showy plating—it’s about that first bite and the comfort it brings.

It’s also incredibly adaptable. Swap in pears for a twist, or stir in some chopped walnuts for crunch. But honestly, it’s hard to beat the original. Once you make these, they’ll be a regular part of your fall baking rotation.

If you’ve got a couple apples on your counter and a craving for something homemade, you’re halfway there. Let’s turn those apples into something unforgettable.

Servings

Makes 16 squares

Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Cooling Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, brown sugar, eggs, oil, and vanilla until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, mix flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
4. Add dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir just until combined.
5. Fold in diced apples gently until evenly distributed.
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
7. Bake for 35–40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool in pan on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before slicing into squares.

Tips

• Use firm apples for best texture—avoid overly soft varieties.
• Let the bars cool completely before slicing for clean edges.
• Dust with powdered sugar before serving for a classic finish.
• Add chopped walnuts or pecans for extra texture and flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with fresh apple chunks
• Super easy to make in one bowl
• Perfect balance of sweetness and spice
• Moist, soft, and chewy texture
• Great for make-ahead and portable treats

These apple squares are everything you want in a homemade dessert: simple, flavorful, comforting, and crowd-pleasing. Perfectly spiced and bursting with real apple chunks, they’re your new go-to treat for fall and beyond.