Description

There’s something magical about the scent of apples and cinnamon filling the air as a homemade treat bakes in the oven. These Flaky Apple Pie Bars capture that comforting feeling, offering all the classic flavors of apple pie in a convenient, portable form. With a buttery crust, tender apple filling, and a crumbly topping, they’re perfect for any occasion, whether you’re baking for a special event or simply craving a cozy treat. The best part? They’re easy to make and guaranteed to impress.

As the leaves began to change each autumn, our family had a cherished tradition of apple picking. We’d spend the day at the local orchard, gathering the juiciest apples while laughing and enjoying the crisp fall air. The apples we picked weren’t just fruit; they were the promise of delicious pies, crisps, and bars to come. My mother would turn those apples into comforting desserts, and the aroma of baking apples and spices would fill our home, signaling the start of the holiday season.

These Flaky Apple Pie Bars are a tribute to those memories. They encapsulate the warmth of those fall days and the joy of baking with family. Each bite takes me back to those cherished moments, and I hope they bring the same sense of comfort and nostalgia to your kitchen.

Ingredients

• Crust and Crumb Topping:
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure for both the crust and the crumb topping, creating a flaky base.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to the crust and topping.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed: The key to achieving a flaky, buttery texture.
• Apple Filling:
• 4 medium-sized apples, peeled, cored, and sliced: The star of the show, offering natural sweetness and tenderness.
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Prevents the apples from browning and adds a bright, tangy flavor.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar: Adds depth and richness to the apple filling.
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Infuses the filling with warm, aromatic spice.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Provides a subtle earthy warmth.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Thickens the filling, ensuring a luscious texture.
• 1/2 cup apple cider: Boosts the apple flavor and adds moisture to the filling.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors and adds a comforting, familiar note.

Preparation Method

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a 9 by 13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.

2. In a food processor, combine flour and sugar, then add cold butter and pulse until crumbly.

3. Press two-thirds of the crumb mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan.

4. In a bowl, toss sliced apples with lemon juice, then mix in brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Spread the apple mixture over the crust.

5. In a saucepan, mix cornstarch and apple cider, cook until thick, then stir in vanilla extract.

6. Pour the glaze over the apples, crumble the remaining crumb mixture on top, and bake for 45 to 50 minutes until golden brown.

7. Let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing and serving.

Tips and Conclusion

For a delightful twist, consider adding chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the crumb topping. The nuts add a satisfying crunch and a rich, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweet and spicy apple filling. You can also experiment with other fruits, like pears or a mix of apples and berries, to create different flavor combinations.

Flaky Apple Pie Bars are more than just a dessert—they’re a heartwarming reminder of home and the simple pleasures of baking. The combination of buttery crust, tender apples, and crunchy topping makes them an irresistible treat that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying as a solo indulgence. Whether you serve them at a family gathering, bring them to a potluck, or savor them with a cup of tea, these bars are sure to bring joy to anyone who takes a bite. Embrace the cozy flavors of fall with these delightful apple pie bars, and create your own cherished memories around this timeless dessert.