1. Make the Crust Dough
In a food processor, pulse flour, sugar, and salt.
Add cold butter and pulse until crumbly.
Mix in egg yolk and ice water until dough just comes together.
Divide dough in half, flatten into disks, and chill 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Apple Filling
Toss apples, brown sugar, lemon juice, spices, and cornstarch in a bowl.
Let sit 15 minutes to macerate.
3. Assemble the Bars
Preheat oven to 375°F and line a 9x9-inch pan with parchment.
Roll out one dough disk to fit the pan’s bottom.
Spread apple filling evenly over crust.
Crumble or lattice remaining dough over the top.
4. Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake 40-45 minutes until top is golden and filling bubbles.
Cool completely before glazing and cutting into squares.
Pro Tips for Bakery-Worthy Bars
🔥 Extra flaky layers – Keep butter ice-cold and handle dough minimally.
🔥 Prevent soggy bottoms – Sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed nuts under filling.
🔥 Caramel twist – Drizzle 2 tbsp caramel sauce over apples before baking.
🔥 Freezer-friendly – Unbaked dough freezes well for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
🍏 À la mode – Serve warm with vanilla ice cream.
☕ Coffee pairing – Perfect with pumpkin spice lattes.
🎁 Gift idea – Package in cute boxes for holiday favors.
