Description
These Applesauce Spice Bars are soft, moist, and full of warm cinnamon flavor. Made with applesauce, brown sugar, and a hint of nutmeg, they’re topped with a sweet glaze and perfect for fall baking, lunchbox treats, or a comforting afternoon snack.
Ingredients
For the Bars:
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1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
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1 cup brown sugar, packed
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1 large egg
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1 cup unsweetened applesauce
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1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
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1/2 tsp baking soda
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1/2 tsp baking powder
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1/2 tsp salt
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1 tsp ground cinnamon
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1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
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1/4 tsp ground cloves (optional)
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1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
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1/2 cup raisins (optional)
For the Glaze (Optional):
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3/4 cup powdered sugar
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1-2 tbsp milk
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1/4 tsp vanilla extract
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Pinch of cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
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Preheat Oven:
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Grease or line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
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Make the Batter:
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In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter and brown sugar until smooth.
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Add egg, vanilla, and applesauce; mix well.
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In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
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Add dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
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Fold in nuts and raisins, if using.
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Bake:
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Spread batter evenly into prepared pan.
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Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Let cool in the pan.
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Add the Glaze (Optional):
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Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
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Drizzle over cooled bars and let set before slicing.
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Notes
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Use chunky or smooth applesauce—either works great.
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For extra richness, top with a brown butter glaze instead of the vanilla glaze.
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These bars freeze well (without the glaze) for up to 2 months.