Apple Pie Bars with Buttery Crust

Introduction:
If you love classic apple pie but want an easier, handheld version, these Apple Pie Bars are the perfect treat! They feature a flaky, buttery crust with a warm cinnamon-spiced apple filling, all topped with a light dusting of powdered sugar. These bars are easy to make and perfect for parties, potlucks, or an afternoon snack with a cup of coffee.

Recipe: Apple Pie Bars

Ingredients

For the Crust & Topping:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Apple Filling:

• 4 cups apples, peeled and sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work great)
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Topping:

• Powdered sugar (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Make the Crust: In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add vanilla extract and mix until combined.
3. Bake the Crust: Press half of the crust mixture into the prepared pan and bake for 15 minutes until lightly golden.
4. Prepare the Apple Filling: In a saucepan, combine apples, sugars, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and vanilla. Cook over medium heat for 5–7 minutes until apples are soft and the mixture thickens.
5. Assemble the Bars: Spread the apple filling evenly over the baked crust. Crumble the remaining crust mixture over the top.
6. Bake: Return to the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
7. Cool & Serve: Let the bars cool completely before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.

Enjoy these delicious Apple Pie Bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel for extra indulgence! 🍏🥧