Apple Bars

These Apple Bars are a delightful treat perfect for autumn or any time you crave the comforting flavors of cinnamon-spiced apples. With a tender, buttery crust and a luscious apple filling, they’re topped with a crumbly streusel that adds the perfect amount of crunch. The balance of sweet and tart apples, combined with a hint of vanilla and cinnamon, makes these bars irresistible. They’re easy to make and ideal for sharing at gatherings or enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea.

Ingredients:

• For the crust:
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• For the apple filling:
  • 5 cups peeled, cored, and thinly sliced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Juice of half a lemon
• For the streusel topping:
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Prepare the crust:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it. In a medium bowl, combine the flour and powdered sugar. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or two forks until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan to form the crust. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
2. Make the apple filling:
   In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Toss until the apples are evenly coated. Set aside.
3. Prepare the streusel topping:
   In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture forms a crumbly texture.
4. Assemble the bars:
   Once the crust is done baking, spread the apple filling evenly over the top. Sprinkle the streusel topping over the apples, covering them as evenly as possible.
5. Bake:
   Return the pan to the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.
6. Cool and serve:
   Allow the apple bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. Enjoy them on their own, or serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.