Apple Pie Bars have all of the deliciousness of apple pie with a layer of shortbread crust, thinly sliced apples and a soft streusel topping.

8 cups apples, peeled and thinly sliced

1/2 cup granulated sugar

3 tbsp. all-purpose flour

1 tsp. cinnamon

Crust:

3/4 cup butter, softened at room temperature

1/2 cup granulated sugar

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 tsp, cinnamon

Pinch salt

Crumble Topping:

3/4 cup rolled oats (quick oats)

3/4 cup brown sugar, packed

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 tsp. cinnamon

1/2 cup cold butter, cubed

Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease lightly with butter.
Prepare the crust:In a large mixing bowl, beat butter with granulated sugar until light and fluffy. (you can do this using a mixer or by hand).
In a separate small mixing bowl combine all-purpose flour, cinnamon and salt.
Gradually stir into butter mixture.
Transfer to prepared baking dish. Spread out evenly, then press into place ensuring that the edges are pressed down as well.
Bake in 350°F oven for 15 minutes.
While the crust is cooking, prepare the apple filling.
Stir together sliced apples, granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, and cinnamon. Set aside.
Streusel Topping:In a large mixing bowl, combine quick oats, brown sugar, all-purpose flour and cinnamon.
Cut in the butter using clean hands or using a pastry blender.
The mixture will resemble coarse crumbs.
Spread apple mixture over slightly cooled crust.
Sprinkle streusel topping over apple mixture and press down lightly.
Bake in 350°F oven for 45 minutes.
Cool completely before cutting into squares.

Storage Instructions: when storing the apple pie bars, cover loosely with wrap and do not seal completely. This will keep the topping more crispy.

Keywords: Apple Pie Bars