Apple Pie Bars

This is best with a firm apple. Easier than pie since you just press the crust into the pan.

• Ready In: 55 mins
• Serves: 16

Ingredients

• Filling

• 6  cups apples, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 1⁄4 cups  apple juice
• 1 1⁄2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 1⁄2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1⁄4 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1 1⁄2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 3⁄4 cup sugar

• Crust

• 1  cup butter, softened
• 1⁄2 cup sugar
• 1⁄2 cup brown sugar
• 2  eggs, slightly beaten
• 3  cups flour
• 1  teaspoon baking powder

Directions

1. To make filling, combine the apples, juice, cinnamon, nutmeg and cardamom in a large pan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Lower heat and cook and stir until apples soften, 3-5 minutes. Mix the cornstarch and sugar well, then stir into the pan. Cook and stir till thick and bubbly, about 1 minute. Cool slightly.
2. Make crust: Blend the butter and sugar well, then add the eggs and remaining ingredients until well mixed.
3. Press 2/3 of crust mixture into a greased 10x15 inch pan.
4. Spread apple filling over. Crumble remaining crust on top.
5. Bake at 375 degrees for 25-30 minutes till golden. Great with vanilla ice cream!
6. Cool and cut into bars.