Flaky Apple Pie Bars

Flaky Apple Pie Bars: A Delectable Twist on a Classic Dessert

There’s something timeless and heartwarming about apple pie—its buttery crust, warm spices, and tender apples evoke memories of home and holidays. But what if you could enjoy all that deliciousness in an easier-to-make, handheld form? Enter Flaky Apple Pie Bars—a delightful dessert that delivers all the flavor of traditional apple pie in a portable, shareable format. These bars are perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or a cozy treat with coffee.

Why You’ll Love Flaky Apple Pie Bars

Unlike a classic pie that can be finicky to roll, shape, and slice, these bars are baked in a rectangular pan, making them simpler to prepare and serve. The base is buttery and crisp, the filling is rich with cinnamon-spiced apples, and the top crust bakes up perfectly golden and flaky.

🍎 Ingredients

For the Crust and Topping:

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
¼ cup granulated sugar
½ teaspoon salt
1 large egg
2 tablespoons cold water

For the Apple Filling:

5 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and thinly sliced
½ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar
2–3 tablespoons milk
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

🧑‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Crust Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, and salt.
Cut in the cold cubed butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and cold water, then add it to the flour-butter mixture.
Gently mix until the dough begins to come together. Divide it in half, shape into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling

While the dough chills, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, both sugars, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and vanilla.
Toss until all the apple slices are evenly coated. Set aside.