I make pies year-round, but I especially love to bake pies in the fall. Maybe it’s the cooler weather or maybe it’s the holiday season, I don’t really know. All I know is, I love pie! =) I already have a favorite apple pie recipe, but I’m always looking for new twists or versions to try (like Apple Berry Pie or Apple Crumble Pie). These Apple Pie Bars are basically an apple slab pie, except I made these bars using a 9×13 pan instead of a sheet pan (but same principle). It’s like pie for a crowd, but with a higher crust to filling ratio than your traditional apple pie. And this crust is out of control…soo flaky!! You’ve also got a drizzle of icing too for a bit more of a pastry-like taste. Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or any day that ends in “y” ;). Enjoy!
Apple Pie Bars
for the crust:
2-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
3/4 cup crisco
4-5 tbsp ice water
for the filling:
4 cups peeled and chopped apples (any kind but tart is my preference)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp cinnamon
2 tbsp butter, melted
dash of salt
for the topping:
2 tbsp butter, melted
2 tbsp granulated sugar
for the icing:
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/2 tsp vanilla
1 tsp milk
1. Start by making the crust. In a large bowl, stir together the flour and salt. Add crisco to the flour mixture and place bowl in the freezer for ~30 minutes. (You want the crisco and flour to be very cold!) Remove from freezer and using 2 knives or a pastry cutter, cut crisco into flour mixture until resembles coarse crumbs. Add ice cold water 1 tablespoon at a time until mixture is moistened and can be formed into a ball.
2. On a well-floured surface, roll half the dough into a large rectangle (~10 inches x ~14 inches). Place in lightly greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
3. In large bowl, stir together ingredients for the apple filling – apples, cinnamon, sugar, butter, and salt. Pour into crust and spread evenly.
4. Roll remaining half of the dough into a second large rectangle. Place on top of apple mixture and seal the top and bottom crust together with your fingers. (It doesn’t have to be pretty!)
5. Brush top crust with butter and sprinkle with sugar. Bake at 375 degrees for 45 minutes or until top is golden brown. Remove from oven and cool.
6. Once cool, whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk. Drizzle over top. Cut into squares to serve.
