When it comes to classic desserts, Dutch apple pie is a true crowd-pleaser. With its buttery crust, sweet-tart apple filling, and crumbly streusel topping, it's hard to resist a slice of this delicious treat. But sometimes, making a whole pie can be time-consuming and intimidating. That's where these Dutch apple pie bars from America's Test Kitchen come in. They offer all the flavors of a traditional pie, but in a more convenient and easy-to-eat form.Dutch Apple Pie Bars Recipe | America's Test Kitchen
After extensive testing and tweaking, the chefs at America's Test Kitchen have come up with the perfect recipe for Dutch apple pie bars. The key to their success is in the layers. Instead of just having a layer of apples on top of a crust, these bars have three distinct layers: a buttery shortbread crust, a layer of spiced apple filling, and a streusel topping made with oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon.The Best Dutch Apple Pie Bars Recipe
Before you start making these delicious bars, make sure you have all your ingredients measured out and ready to go. This will make the process much smoother and efficient. You'll need all-purpose flour, butter, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, allspice, salt, apples, lemon juice, brown sugar, and old-fashioned oats.Step-by-Step Instructions for Dutch Apple Pie Bars
To make the crust, combine 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 3/4 cup of melted butter, 1/3 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract in a bowl. Mix until a dough forms. Press the dough into an 8-inch square baking dish lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15 minutes at 350 degrees F.Step 1: Make the Crust
In a separate bowl, mix together 3 cups of peeled and thinly sliced apples, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 1/3 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon of allspice, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Spread the apple filling over the crust.Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling
For the final layer, mix together 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of cold butter, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, 1/4 cup of old-fashioned oats, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture over the apple filling.Step 3: Add the Streusel Topping
Bake the bars for 30-35 minutes at 350 degrees F until the streusel is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Let the bars cool for at least an hour before slicing and serving. You can also refrigerate them for a few hours to make them easier to cut.Step 4: Bake and Cool
These Dutch apple pie bars from America's Test Kitchen are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. They are perfect for parties, potlucks, or just as a sweet treat to enjoy at home. The combination of the buttery crust, spiced apple filling, and crumbly streusel topping is simply irresistible. Try making a batch today and see for yourself!Enjoy Your Delicious Dutch Apple Pie Bars