
Apple Pie Bars with a Perfectly Flaky Crust: An Easy, Delicious Twist on a Classic Dessert
Introduction:
If you love the sweet and spicy flavors of apple pie but want an easier version to prepare, these Apple Pie Bars are the perfect solution. Made with a buttery, flaky crust and filled with warm, cinnamon-spiced apples, these bars are topped with a crispy crumble, making them a perfect dessert for any occasion. From family dinners to holiday gatherings, these bars are sure to impress with their deliciously simple yet elegant presentation.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 4-5 tablespoons ice-cold water
For the Apple Filling:
- 5-6 medium apples, peeled and sliced
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
For the Crumble Topping:
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.
- Make the Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add cold, cubed butter and cut it into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Slowly add the cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
- Press the Dough: Press half of the dough into the prepared pan to form an even crust on the bottom. Use your fingers or a spoon to spread it evenly across the base. Set the remaining dough aside for the crumble topping.
Step 2: Make the Apple Filling
- Prepare the Apples: In a large bowl, mix the sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Toss to coat the apples evenly with the sugar and spices.
- Assemble the Filling: Layer the seasoned apples evenly over the crust in the baking pan.
Step 3: Add the Crumble Topping
- Make the Topping: Crumble the remaining dough over the apples to form a topping. The dough should be in small clumps that will bake into a golden, crisp crumble.
- Optional Sugar Sprinkle: Sprinkle the granulated and coarse sugar over the topping for added sweetness and a crunchy finish.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake the Bars: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown, the apples are tender, and the topping is crisp. The apple filling should be bubbly.
- Cool the Bars: Remove from the oven and allow to cool for about 15-20 minutes before slicing.
Step 5: Serve
- Cut Into Bars: Once the dessert has cooled slightly, carefully remove it from the pan using the parchment paper. Slice into even squares or bars.
- Optional Garnish: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence.
Tips for Success:
- Choose the Right Apples: Use a mix of tart and sweet apples, like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, for the best flavor and texture.
- Make-Ahead Option: Prepare these bars a day in advance. Store them in the fridge and reheat them in the oven for a warm treat.
- Add Oats: For a heartier topping, try adding oats to the crumble mixture for added texture and flavor.
Why You’ll Love These Apple Pie Bars:
- Simple to Make: These bars have all the delicious flavors of apple pie without the hassle of a double-crust pie. Perfect for when you’re short on time!
- Perfect for Sharing: Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or a picnic, these easy-to-serve apple pie bars are a great way to satisfy a crowd.
- Comforting Dessert: The comforting combination of cinnamon apples, buttery crust, and crunchy crumble topping makes these bars the ultimate fall dessert.
Conclusion:
These Apple Pie Bars combine the best parts of a classic apple pie into a simple and satisfying dessert. With a flaky crust, tender cinnamon-spiced apples, and a golden crumble topping, they’re the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for a family gathering or enjoying them for a cozy afternoon snack, these bars are guaranteed to be a hit!