Pin Ricotta Cinnamon Apple Pie Bars bring together buttery crust, rich ricotta, spiced apple filling, and a cinnamon crumb all in one dreamy bar. Every bite tastes like fall, whether you serve them for a cozy dessert or an afternoon snack.
I first baked these bars after a fall apple picking trip with my family. The cinnamon aroma always brings back those crisp afternoons, and now we look forward to this recipe each apple season.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: Gives structure to each layer and is best when fresh for a tender result
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the crust and ricotta filling without overpowering delicate flavors
- Salt: Balances the sweetness
- Cold unsalted butter: Makes the crust and topping flaky and rich, so use high fat European style if possible
- Ricotta cheese: Creates a creamy layer and is best bought whole milk for extra silkiness
- Egg: Helps the ricotta layer set firmly
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the warmth of cinnamon and apples
- Lemon zest: Brightens the ricotta and balances the richness
- Apples: Provide tartness and body to the filling (opt for crisp, firm varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith)
- Brown sugar: Adds depth to the crumb topping
- Cinnamon: Infuses the bars with classic warmth
- Nutmeg: Brings subtle spice
- Quality parchment: Makes removing bars clean and easy
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan:
- Line an eight by eight inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and allow easy removal once baked
- Mix and Press the Crust:
- Combine flour sugar and salt in a mixing bowl Cut in chilled butter using a pastry blender or fingertips until the mix resembles coarse crumbs Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the baking pan Bake for twelve minutes until the edges are lightly golden
- Blend the Ricotta Layer:
- In a separate bowl whisk the ricotta cheese with egg sugar vanilla and lemon zest Continue whisking until completely smooth with no lumps Carefully spread the ricotta mixture in an even layer over the slightly cooled baked crust
- Sauté the Apple Filling:
- Heat a skillet over medium Add one tablespoon of butter then stir in diced apples sugar cinnamon and nutmeg Sauté for five to seven minutes letting the apples become just tender but still holding shape Remove from heat and allow to cool briefly before spooning over the ricotta layer
- Create the Crumb Topping:
- Mix flour brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl Drizzle in melted butter then toss with a fork until large moist crumbs form Gently scatter crumbs over the apple layer making sure all apples are covered evenly
- Bake and Cool:
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for about twenty five to twenty eight minutes The topping should be golden and the center just set Cool the bars completely in the pan before lifting out and slicing
Pin My favorite part is the ricotta layer it makes these so creamy without being too sweet. I remember making this with my mom after picking apples together, and we always sampled the crumb topping straight from the bowl. These bars taste like home.
Storage Tips
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days For longer storage you can freeze them individually wrapped and defrost overnight in the fridge The crumb topping stays crisp when chilled but will soften slightly after a day or two
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap the apples for pears or use a half and half mix for a subtle twist Gluten free all-purpose flour works well here Dairy free ricotta alternatives and plant based butter yield a different but still satisfying dessert
Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled for a dense texture or let sit at room temperature for a creamier bite Excellent with a spoonful of lightly sweetened whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream For gatherings cut into smaller squares and dust with extra cinnamon sugar
Cultural and Seasonal Context
Apple pie is a classic American dessert and layering it with ricotta is a nod to Italian cheesecakes The cinnamon crumble is a nostalgic touch that brings out autumn flavors perfectly This treat shines during apple season when local varieties are best
Seasonal Adaptations
Use freshly picked fall apples for the most flavor Try adding a pinch of ground cardamom to the crumb for warmth Top with seasonal berries in the summer months for a fruity lift
Success Stories
Friends who have tried this recipe love how it blends the silky ricotta and spicy apples Many have adapted it to suit gluten free diets or added their own favorite nuts to the topping It is a go to for school bake sales and family brunches alike
Freezer Meal Conversion
Let bars cool then wrap each piece tightly in plastic For busy weeks you can grab one straight from the freezer and pop into lunchboxes Allow bars to defrost naturally for best texture
Pin Enjoy these bars with loved ones and savor the cozy fall flavors. They are sure to become a family favorite for apple season and beyond.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of apples work best?
Firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold their shape and offer balanced sweetness and tartness.
- → Can I substitute ricotta cheese?
Yes, mascarpone or drained cottage cheese can be used, though flavor and texture will vary slightly.
- → How do I achieve a crisp crust?
Use cold, cubed butter and avoid overmixing. Prebake the crust until just golden for the best texture.
- → Can the bars be made ahead?
Absolutely. Bars can be prepared a day in advance and stored chilled; flavors meld beautifully overnight.
- → What allergies should I watch for?
Dairy, eggs, and gluten are present. Check all ingredient labels and consider substitutes for dietary needs.
- → Do these bars freeze well?
Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to one month. Thaw in the fridge and enjoy at room temperature.