Save to Pinterest Tender, spiced apple filling layered over a creamy ricotta base and buttery crust, finished with a cinnamon crumb topping—these bars are the perfect autumn-inspired treat.
I made these Ricotta Cinnamon Apple Pie Bars for a family gathering and they quickly disappeared. The combination of creamy ricotta and tender apples really wowed everyone. Even picky eaters loved them!
Ingredients
- Crust: 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour, 1/3 cup (70 g) granulated sugar, 1/4 tsp salt, 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter cold and cubed
- Ricotta Layer: 1 cup (250 g) ricotta cheese, 1 large egg, 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, Zest of 1 lemon
- Apple Cinnamon Filling: 3 medium apples (about 400 g) peeled cored and diced, 2 tbsp (25 g) granulated sugar, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg, 1 tbsp (15 g) unsalted butter
- Crumb Topping: 1/2 cup (65 g) all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup (50 g) brown sugar, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 cup (55 g) unsalted butter melted
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper.
- Make Crust:
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 12 minutes until lightly golden.
- Prepare Ricotta Layer:
- In a bowl, whisk together ricotta, egg, sugar, vanilla, and lemon zest until smooth. Spread evenly over the baked crust.
- Cook Apple Filling:
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tbsp butter. Add diced apples, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook for 5–7 minutes until apples are tender but not mushy. Cool slightly, then spread over the ricotta layer.
- Make Crumb Topping:
- Mix flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Stir in melted butter until large crumbs form. Sprinkle evenly over apples.
- Bake:
- Bake for 25–28 minutes, or until topping is golden and center is set. Cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars.
Save to Pinterest These apple pie bars have quickly become a favorite at our weekend brunches. Everyone gathers around as they're sliced and shared. The best part is seeing the smiles as someone takes the first creamy bite.
Required Tools
8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking pan, mixing bowls, whisk, knife and cutting board, skillet, parchment paper
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (ricotta, butter), eggs, and gluten (wheat flour). Individuals with allergies should substitute with alternatives and always check ingredient labels.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 230, Total Fat: 11 g, Carbohydrates: 28 g, Protein: 4 g
Save to Pinterest Ricotta Cinnamon Apple Pie Bars are delicious chilled or at room temperature. Share with loved ones and enjoy every spiced, creamy bite!
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use different fruits instead of apples?
Yes, pears work well or you can mix apples and pears for a unique flavor profile in these bars.
- → What is the best way to serve these bars?
Serve chilled for a firmer texture, or at room temperature for extra softness. A dollop of whipped cream is delicious.
- → How do I make the crumb topping stay crisp?
Ensure the topping is evenly distributed and bake until golden for the perfect crisp texture. Allow bars to cool fully.
- → Are there suitable substitutions for ricotta cheese?
Mascarpone or cream cheese can be substituted, though the texture and taste will slightly differ.
- → What allergens should I be aware of?
These bars contain dairy, eggs, and gluten. Use alternatives if you have sensitivity and check all labels carefully.