Get ready to indulge in a delightful treat that will transport your taste buds straight to autumn! These Applesauce Spice Bars with Browned Butter Icing are the perfect blend of warm spices and sweet, rich flavors that will have you coming back for seconds. With a moist and tender texture, these bars are not just a dessert; they’re a cozy hug in every bite. Plus, the luscious browned butter icing adds an irresistible finish that will make you the star of any gathering. Don’t miss out on this scrumptious recipe that’s as easy to make as it is to devour!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 16 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup butter
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray and line with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together applesauce, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, and eggs until smooth and well combined.
- In a separate bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula to ensure uniform thickness.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- While the bars are baking, prepare the browned butter icing. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, stirring constantly until it turns a golden brown color and develops a nutty aroma.
- Remove the browned butter from heat and whisk in powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Allow the baked bars to cool completely in the pan for about 30 minutes before spreading the browned butter icing evenly over the top.
- Let the icing set for 10-15 minutes, then cut into 16 equal bars.
- Serve and enjoy the warm, spiced applesauce bars with their rich browned butter icing.
Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh spices and high-quality applesauce. Homemade applesauce can elevate the taste even more!
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense bars.
- Check for Doneness: Baking times can vary, so start checking your bars at the 25-minute mark. A toothpick should come out clean when they’re ready.
- Perfect Browned Butter: Keep a close eye on the butter while browning it; it can go from perfect to burnt quickly. Look for a golden brown color and a nutty aroma.
- Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool completely before icing to prevent the icing from melting off. This will give you a beautiful finish!
- Customize Your Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking! A pinch of ginger or cloves can add an extra layer of warmth.
- Storage Tips: These bars stay fresh for several days in an airtight container. You can also freeze them for a quick treat later!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 30mg
