Unique Fall Desserts That Aren't Pumpkin Spice

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Apple Pie Bars

Apple pie bars are a delicious, easy-to-make version of the classic apple pie, with a buttery shortbread crust, spiced apple filling, and a crumbly oat topping. These bars capture the warm flavors of apple pie in a convenient handheld form, perfect for serving at gatherings, potlucks, or just enjoying at home. Every bite has the comforting taste of baked apples and cinnamon, with a touch of sweetness in every layer.

Ingredients (for 12 servings):

For the Crust:

• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• Pinch of salt

For the Filling:

• 4 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
• ¼ cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground ginger
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp cornstarch

For the Topping:

• ½ cup rolled oats
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup brown sugar, packed
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, softened butter, granulated sugar, and salt until it forms a crumbly dough. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
3. Bake the crust for 15 min. until lightly golden. Set aside to cool slightly.
4. For the apple filling, in a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, lemon juice, and cornstarch until evenly coated.
5. Spread the apple mixture over the partially baked crust in an even layer.
6. In a separate bowl, combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon for the crumble topping. Sprinkle the crumble mixture over the apples.
7. Bake for 30-35 min. until the topping is golden and the apples are tender.
8. Let the bars cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar and cutting into squares.