1-Getting ready to bake: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×9 or 9×13 inch baking dish to ensure nothing sticks. This simple step sets the stage for a smooth baking process that won’t leave you with a mess.

2-Prepare wet ingredients: Once your oven is heating up, beat the 1/2 cup melted and cooled butter with 3/4 cup brown sugar and 1/2 cup sugar in a large bowl until they’re well combined and fluffy. Then, add in 2 eggs, 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract, and 1/2 cup natural creamy peanut butter, mixing everything until it’s nice and smooth. In another bowl, whisk together 2 cups white whole wheat or all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.

3-Combine dry and wet ingredients: Now, combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture and stir just until everything is blended don’t overmix to keep the bars tender. Gently fold in 1 1/2 cups shredded apples to add that wonderful moisture and flavor throughout. Spread the batter evenly in your prepared dish and pop it in the oven.

4-Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes if you’re using a 9×13 pan, or 25-30 minutes for a 9×9 pan, until the top is lightly golden and a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean. Once done, let the bars cool on a wire rack before cutting them into squares. Preparation only takes about 10-15 minutes, plus the baking time, so you can enjoy these treats in no time.