Flaky Apple Pie Bars

Apple pie bars are a delightful twist on the classic dessert, offering a fun-sized treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a delicious snack to enjoy with your afternoon coffee or a crowd-pleasing dessert to serve at a party, these apple pie bars are sure to become a favorite. The combination of a buttery, flaky crust and sweet, cinnamon-spiced apples makes this recipe truly irresistible. Plus, they’re conveniently portable, so you can enjoy the taste of apple pie on the go!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These flaky apple pie bars are a must-try for several reasons. They’re easier to make than a traditional apple pie, yet they capture all the delicious flavors you love. The bars are perfect for serving at gatherings, as guests can easily grab a piece and mingle. Additionally, they pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, making them a versatile dessert for both casual and elegant occasions.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• Pastry brush
• Knife or pastry cutter
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp white sugar
• 2 egg yolks
• ½ cup milk
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup shortening
• 2 egg whites
• 9 apples – peeled, cored, and sliced
• ¾ cup white sugar
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 ½ cups confectioners’ sugar
• 1 pinch salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 tbsp milk

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. In a medium bowl, stir together the flour, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and salt. Cut in the shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the egg yolks and ½ cup of milk; stir until just combined.
3. On a lightly floured surface, roll out half of the dough to fit the bottom of the prepared pan. Place the dough in the pan and brush with a thin layer of egg white. Layer the sliced apples on top and sprinkle with sugar and cinnamon.
4. Roll out the remaining dough and cover the apples. Brush the top with a light coating of egg white.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. In a small bowl, beat together the confectioners’ sugar, salt, vanilla, and 3 tablespoons of milk until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled bars and cut into squares.

Tips for Success

• Chill your shortening before using it to achieve a flakier crust.
• Be sure to evenly distribute the apples for consistent flavor in every bite.
• Allow the bars to cool completely before drizzling with icing to ensure it sets properly.

Additional Tips and Variations

For a fun twist, try adding a handful of chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, to the apple filling. You can also experiment with different spices, such as nutmeg or allspice, to enhance the flavor profile.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 320
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 15g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 2g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use butter instead of shortening?
Yes, you can substitute butter for shortening, but keep in mind it may alter the texture slightly, resulting in a less flaky crust.

Can I freeze these bars?
Absolutely! Wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to three months.

What types of apples work best?
A mix of tart and sweet apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, provides a balanced flavor.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoy making and savoring these flaky apple pie bars as much as I do. They’re a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of apple pie in a convenient, handheld form. Give them a try and let me know how they turn out! Feel free to share your experiences and any creative variations you’ve tried in the comments below.