Flaky Apple Pie Bars: A Comforting Dessert You’ll Want to Make Again and Again

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add the egg and a tablespoon of cold water, mixing just until the dough starts to come together.
4. Divide the dough in half, shape into disks, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Apple Filling

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine apples, both sugars, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and vanilla.
2. Stir gently until the apples soften slightly and the mixture thickens (about 5–7 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and let it cool while you roll out the dough.

Step 3: Assemble the Bars

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Roll out one half of the dough and place it in a parchment-lined rectangular baking dish (about 9×13 inches).
3. Spread the apple filling evenly over the base.
4. Roll out the second dough portion and place it on top. Seal the edges gently.
5. Brush the top with milk or beaten egg for a golden finish.

Step 4: Bake and Cool

• Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and flaky.
• Let it cool completely before cutting into bars — this helps the filling set beautifully.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooled, dust generously with powdered sugar for that irresistible bakery-style look.
Serve plain, or make it extra indulgent with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

🍎 Tips for Success

• Cold butter = flaky crust. Always use chilled butter for a crisp texture.
• Don’t overwork the dough. Mix only until it comes together to avoid toughness.
• Mix apple varieties. Combine tart and sweet apples for a deeper flavor.
• Refrigerate before baking. A 10-minute chill before baking helps the crust hold its shape.

❤️ Final Thoughts

Flaky Apple Pie Bars are proof that simplicity and comfort can go hand in hand. With their golden crust, gooey apple filling, and light dusting of sugar, they’re the perfect homemade dessert for any season. Whether you serve them at a picnic, holiday party, or Sunday brunch, these bars are sure to disappear fast — leaving behind only happy smiles and requests for the recipe.