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Apple Pie Bars with Cardamom

This dessert features a buttery crust topped with a spicy-sweet apple filling infused with cardamom, baked until golden and bubbling. The final bars combine a crisp base, juicy layered filling, and a slightly caramelized top, presenting a warm and inviting look.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 8
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup unsalted butter cold and cubed
  • 4 large apples peeled, cored, and sliced
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar for filling
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch to thicken filling
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 pinch salt

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Baking pan
  • Parchment paper
  • Pastry cutter or fork
  • Silicone spatula
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or fork to cut it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Press about two-thirds of the crumb mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan, spreading evenly to create a firm crust layer. Use the back of a spoon or your fingers to press it down gently.
  4. In a separate bowl, combine sliced apples, sugar, cornstarch, ground cardamom, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until the apples are coated evenly and some juice begins to form.
  5. Spread the apple mixture evenly over the crust layer, ensuring a generous, even spread that reaches the edges.
  6. Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture evenly over the apples, covering the entire filling surface to create a crumbly topping.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling around the edges. The kitchen will fill with a warm, spicy aroma.
  8. Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool for at least 20 minutes so the filling can set. The bars will firm up and the topping will crisp.
  9. Slice into squares and serve slightly warm or at room temperature, enjoying the combination of crispy crust and tender, spiced apple filling.

Notes

For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle some fine sugar on top before baking. These bars keep well stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.