These Easy Apple Squares are a quick and tasty treat! Made with fresh apples, warm spices, and a soft, cake-like base, they’re perfect for snacks anytime.
They remind me of cozy fall days! Just bake, let them cool, and enjoy a sweet slice with a cup of tea or coffee. It’s like a hug in dessert form! 🍏😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: For the best flavor, use tart apples like Granny Smith or sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp. If you don’t have fresh apples, unsweetened applesauce can work too—just use about 1/2 cup to replace the chopped apples.
Flour: All-purpose flour is perfect for these squares, but if you want a healthier version, you could substitute half with whole wheat flour or use gluten-free flour blend.
Yogurt/Sour Cream: I like using yogurt for added moisture. You could substitute Greek yogurt for a thicker texture. If dairy is an issue, try using almond or coconut yogurt instead.
Cinnamon: This spice brings warmth to the recipe. If you’re out of cinnamon, nutmeg or pumpkin spice can add a lovely flavor as well!
How Do I Ensure My Apple Squares Come Out Moist and Flavorful?
Getting the moisture and flavor just right is all about the mixing and baking method. Be sure to combine your wet and dry ingredients without overmixing—this keeps them light and fluffy.
- Preheat your oven well, around 350°F (175°C), ensuring an even bake.
- Don’t skip letting them cool in the pan! This helps them set perfectly.
- The toothpick test is key—insert it in the center, and if it comes out clean with a few crumbs, they’re good to go!
Easy Apple Squares
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium apples (peeled, cored, and chopped)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt or sour cream
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 25-30 minutes for baking. Allow for an additional 15 minutes to cool before slicing. So, in total, you’re looking at around 1 hour to make these delicious squares!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking. While that’s warming up, grease or line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper. This helps the squares come out easily later on!
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. This ensures that all the dry ingredients are well-combined and the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the squares.
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, mix together the melted unsalted butter, yogurt (or sour cream), egg, and vanilla extract. Use a whisk or a fork to create a smooth blend. This mixture will keep your squares moist and tasty!
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently just until they’re combined. Be careful not to overmix, or your apple squares might turn out dense!
5. Add the Apples:
Carefully fold in the chopped apples. This will add a lovely sweetness and texture to your squares!
6. Bake Them:
Spread the batter evenly into your prepared baking pan. Pop it in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once done, take the baking pan out of the oven and let the apple squares cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, cut into squares, and feel free to dust with powdered sugar for a sweet finish!
Enjoy your quick and delicious apple squares!
FAQ for Easy Apple Squares Recipe
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any apples you have on hand. Tart apples like Granny Smith work great, but sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji can enhance the flavor as well. Just peel, core, and chop them before adding to the batter!
Can I Substitute the Yogurt or Sour Cream?
Yes, you can! If you don’t have yogurt or sour cream, you can substitute it with an equal amount of unsweetened applesauce or even buttermilk for a similar texture and flavor. Just make sure to keep the moisture balance in mind!
How Do I Store Leftover Apple Squares?
Store any leftover apple squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep them for longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn!
Can I Add Nuts or Other Ingredients?
Yes! You can mix in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch, or you could even include dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a flavor twist. Just make sure to adjust the dry ingredients slightly if you add extra elements!
