Welcome to the cozy world of Vintage Apple Pie Bars! Think of these as the perfect blend of a classic apple pie and a convenient bar — ideal for those moments when you're craving something warm and comforting without the fuss of rolling out pie crusts. Let's dive into what makes these little delights a must-try!
Flour is the backbone of our crust, giving structure and a slight crispiness. The granulated sugar sweetens the crust slightly, balancing the tartness of the apples. A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors without being overpowering.
Butter, when cold and cubed, creates that delightful flaky texture by forming pockets in the crust as it bakes. Apples are the star here, bringing their natural sweetness and a bit of tartness — choose a firm variety like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best results.
Brown sugar adds a molasses-like depth to the apple mixture, while lemon juice brightens and prevents the apples from browning. Cinnamon and nutmeg are the classic warm spices that make the filling aromatic and flavorful.
The oats and walnuts in the topping bring a lovely crunch and heartiness, enhanced by more brown sugar and melted butter to hold it all together.
These bars are delightful on their own, but try serving them slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. Alternatively, a dollop of whipped cream with a sprinkle of cinnamon can elevate the experience. For a cozy afternoon, pair them with a mug of hot apple cider or a spicy chai latte.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and give your 9x13 inch baking dish a light greasing to ensure nothing sticks. In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, 1/2 cup of sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Add in the cold, cubed butter. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, mix until you have a crumbly texture. Press this into your greased dish, making sure it’s even, and pop it in the oven for about 15 minutes.
While the crust is baking, grab another bowl and toss in your peeled and sliced apples. Add 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg, and 2 tablespoons of flour. Mix until the apples are well-coated. Once the crust is done, evenly spread this apple mixture over it.
For the topping, combine oats, walnuts, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Mix until it's all incorporated and crumbly. Sprinkle this over the apples, ensuring an even layer. Return the dish to the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. You’re looking for a golden top and bubbly filling. Let it cool before slicing into bars.
Share