They vanished in a flash whenever my mom made them on those crazy busy days.

In the heart of the Midwest, where the apple orchards stretch as far as the eye can see, there's a cherished tradition of turning the season's bounty into comforting desserts. These flaky apple pie bars are a nod to those simpler times when my grandmother would gather us around her kitchen table, the air filled with the sweet scent of cinnamon and baked apples. This recipe captures that essence, offering a delightful blend of flaky, gooey, and crumbly textures that remind us of home. Perfect for a cozy family gathering or a quiet afternoon treat, these bars are a testament to the timeless love of homemade goodness.

These apple pie bars are a delight on their own, but if you're looking to elevate the experience, consider serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. A sprinkle of cinnamon on top adds an extra touch of warmth. For a hearty Midwestern meal, pair these bars with a comforting cup of hot apple cider or a robust black coffee. They also make a lovely addition to a brunch spread, nestled alongside savory quiches and fresh fruit.

Servings: 12

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
1/4 cup ice water
6 cups apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.

In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Cut in the chilled butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Gradually add the ice water, mixing just until the dough comes together. Divide the dough in half, wrap each half in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

In a separate bowl, toss the sliced apples with granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Set aside.

Roll out one half of the dough on a floured surface to fit the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Place the rolled dough in the dish.

Spread the apple mixture evenly over the crust.

In a small bowl, combine oats, brown sugar, and melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture over the apples.

Roll out the second half of the dough and place it over the apple mixture. Cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.

Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the apples are tender.

Allow the bars to cool before cutting into squares.

For a richer flavor, try adding a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans to the oat topping. If you prefer a sweeter filling, mix in a tablespoon of honey with the apples. For a touch of tartness, use a mix of sweet and tart apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free.