5-Ingredient Invisible Apple Cake Bars are a delightful and surprisingly simple dessert that anyone can whip up in no time. With their soft texture and sweet apple flavor, these cake bars are perfect for family gatherings, afternoon tea, or just a cozy night in. Made with just five ingredients, they are an excellent way to showcase the goodness of fresh apples without overwhelming your taste buds. Let’s get started with this easy-to-follow recipe!
What You’ll Need for 5-Ingredient Invisible Apple Cake Bars
To make these delicious cake bars, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 canola or vegetable cooking spray (which will help with easy removal)
- 3 large eggs
- 2/3 cup (135g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (120ml) half-and-half
- 1 cup (125g) self-raising flour
- 2 to 2 1/4 lb. (about 1-1.1 kg) crisp, sweet apples
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Step-by-Step Recipe for 5-Ingredient Invisible Apple Cake Bars
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Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Coat a 9-inch square baking pan with cooking spray, and line it with parchment paper, leaving about a 2-inch overhang on two sides. Spray the parchment paper lightly with more cooking spray.
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In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture becomes pale and thickened, about 1 to 2 minutes.
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Lower the mixer speed to low and add the half-and-half. Beat until smooth, which should take about 5 seconds. Gradually mix in the self-raising flour until just combined—this will take about 20 to 30 seconds.
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Now, peel the apples and use the large hole side of a box grater to grate them. Once grated, place the apples in a fine-mesh strainer. Press gently down on the apples to remove excess moisture—this is key for the texture of your bars.
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Fold the drained, grated apples into the egg mixture until they are evenly coated.
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Spoon the mixture into your prepared baking pan and smooth it down to create an even layer.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a wooden pick inserted in the center comes out clean, the edges are browned, and the top feels set to touch.
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Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 20 minutes. Then, transfer it to the refrigerator to cool completely for 1 to 2 hours.
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If needed, run a flat-edged knife along the sides of the pan to release the cake. Lift the cake from the pan using the parchment paper handles and transfer it to a cutting board. Dust the top with powdered sugar and slice into 2-inch squares.
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Serve your delicious cake bars chilled or at room temperature.
Serving 5-Ingredient Invisible Apple Cake Bars
These cake bars are absolutely gorgeous when served! For the best presentation, arrange them on a decorative plate, dust them lightly with powdered sugar, and perhaps add a few slices of fresh apple or a dollop of whipped cream on the side. They pair wonderfully with tea or coffee, making them a delicious treat for gatherings or a cozy night at home.
Helpful Tricks for 5-Ingredient Invisible Apple Cake Bars
- Use Firm Apples: For perfect flavor and texture, stick to firm, crisp apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith.
- Make Ahead: These bars can be made a day in advance, making them great for parties or unexpected guests. Just store them in an airtight container.
- Add Spices: For a flavor twist, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg when mixing the batter.
5-Ingredient Invisible Apple Cake Bars FAQs
Can I use different types of apples?
Absolutely! While sweet, crisp apples work best, feel free to experiment with your favorites. Just avoid overly tart apples for a balanced sweetness.
How should I store the cake bars?
Keep your cake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. They can last up to a week.
Can I freeze these cake bars?
Yes, you can! Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a zip-top bag before freezing. They will keep well for about 2 months.
These 5-Ingredient Invisible Apple Cake Bars are not only easy to make but are also a delightful treat that everyone will love. So grab your ingredients and start baking—your taste buds will thank you!