Name: Bakery-style apple bars: crisp pastry and juicy filling like from a café (quick and proven recipe)
Prep time: 35 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 8
Ingredients: 1 cup oil; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vinegar; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 cup water; 500 g semi-coarse flour; 1 kg apples; 200 g sugar; cinnamon to taste; powdered sugar for dusting

Preparation procedure

Dough In a bowl, mix the oil, sugar, vinegar, baking soda and water. Gradually incorporate the sifted semi-coarse flour and work into a smooth, soft dough. Mix and knead until the dough is cohesive and not sticky.
Dividing and baking the layers Divide the dough into two equal halves. Roll each out into a sheet approximately 30 × 40 cm. Transfer to a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake one sheet at a time in an oven preheated to 175 °C for 30–35 minutes until light golden. Let cool.
Apple filling Peel the apples, grate coarsely, put into a wide pan, add the sugar and simmer, stirring constantly. Cook off the excess juice, season with cinnamon and let cool slightly.
Assembly Spread the apple filling evenly over the bottom cooled layer. Top with the second layer and press lightly.
Finishing Dust the surface with powdered sugar. Let rest for at least 30 minutes so the slices are easier to cut. Cut with a sharp knife into neat portions.

Servings: 16–20 slices

Total preparation time: approx. 2 hours 15 minutes (work 35 min + baking 2 × 30–35 min + cooling)

Poznámka: 1 cup = 250 ml

Tips for success

Don’t let the filling be watery – a short evaporation of the juice will ensure the slices won’t become soggy.
Bake the layers until light golden; too dark and they will be brittle or crumbly.
A pinch of ground cloves or nutmeg in the filling enhances the flavor.

Conclusion

Bakery-style apple bars are proof that traditional recipes always work. Simple ingredients, quick preparation and honest flavor make this cake an ideal choice for Sunday afternoons and festive tables. Bake them a day ahead – they become wonderfully tender and can be cut into perfectly even squares.