Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven & Prep the Pan

Preheat the oven to 350°F.

Line an 8inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving enough overhang on the sides to help lift the cooled bars from the pan later.

2. Make the Crust

In a large bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, vanilla extract, salt, and flour. Use a fork or pastry cutter to work everything together until the mixture has a crumbly texture and the butter is evenly distributed.

Press the crust mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

Bake for 10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly while you prepare the apples.

3. Prepare the Apple Filling

Peel the apples if desired (I usually don't bother), then cut them into thin, even slices.

Place the sliced apples in a large bowl and add the granulated sugar, flour, lemon juice, and apple pie spice.

Toss gently until the apples are evenly coated.

4. Add the Apple Layer

Arrange the seasoned apple slices over the partially baked crust.

Spread them out and smooth the slices down so they lie relatively flat and form an even layer across the crust.

5. Make the Cinnamon Crumble Topping

In another large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, salt, cinnamon, and butter. Use a fork or pastry cutter to work the ingredients together until a crumbly mixture forms.

Sprinkle the crumble evenly over the apples, making sure the topping reaches the edges of the pan.

6. Bake, Cool & Chill

Bake at 350°F for 30-35 minutes, until the crumble topping is baked through and the apple layer is tender.

Allow the bars to cool before transferring them to the refrigerator. Chill for 1-2 hours to help the layers firm up and make the bars easier to slice neatly. Personally I prefer these bars (and all apple pie actually) cold.

Lift the bars from the pan using the parchment paper, cut into 9 or more squares, and serve.

Storage Tips: Store leftover apple pie bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For the best texture, place parchment between layers if you need to stack them.

Freezing Tips: You can also freeze the cooled and sliced bars in a freezer safe container for up to 2 months. Separate the bars with parchment paper so you can remove individual servings as needed.

Thawing Tips: Thaw frozen bars overnight in the refrigerator. Enjoy them chilled, or bring them to room temperature before serving, or gently warm individual portions if you prefer softer apples and a warm crumble topping.