Ina Garten Apple Pie Squares Recipe

The Ina Garten Apple Pie Squares Recipe is perfect. It is like a classic apple pie. But it is much easier to eat.

This recipe is great for big parties. Everyone loves the flaky crust. They love the warm apples too.

Learning how to make Ina Garten Apple Pie Squares is simple. You do not need to be a pro.

The flavors are bright and cozy. This Ina Garten Apple Pie Squares Recipe uses fresh lemon.

It also uses warm cinnamon. It smells amazing while it bakes. Your whole house will smell like fall.

Let’s start baking these delicious squares today!

When I first introduced to Ina Garten Apple Pie Squares

I first saw this recipe on TV. Ina Garten made it look so easy. I love her simple style. I tried it for a family picnic.

Everyone asked for the recipe. It was a huge hit! Now, I make it every autumn. It is my favorite way to use apples.

The crust is buttery and crisp. The filling is soft and sweet. It is better than a round pie.

You get more crust in every bite. It is the best comfort food.

Equipment List

• One large baking sheet.
• An electric stand mixer.
• A rolling pin.
• Large mixing bowls.
• A sharp knife or peeler.
• Plastic wrap for the dough.
• Measuring cups and spoons.
• A pastry brush.

Ingredients You Need for Ina Garten Apple Pie Squares

You need fresh Ingredients for Ina Garten Apple Pie Squares. Here is the list:

• 4 cups of all-purpose flour.
• 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar.
• 1 teaspoon of kosher salt.
• 1 pound of cold unsalted butter.
• 1/2 cup of ice water.
• 4 pounds of Granny Smith apples.
• 1/2 cup of light brown sugar.
• 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon.
• 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg.
• 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice.
• 1 egg beaten with milk (egg wash).

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Make the Pastry Dough

Mix flour, sugar, and salt in a bowl. Add cold butter chunks. Mix until it looks like peas. Pour in the ice water slowly. Mix until the dough holds together.

2. Chill the Dough

Wrap the dough in plastic. Put it in the fridge. Let it rest for one hour. This makes the crust very flaky. Do not skip this step!

3. Prepare the Apple Filling

Peel and slice your apples thin. Put them in a big bowl. Add brown sugar and cinnamon. Add nutmeg and lemon juice. Toss everything together well.

4. Roll Out the Bottom Crust

Divide the dough in half. Roll one half into a rectangle. Place it on the baking sheet. Let it hang over the edges.

5. Add the Apple Layer

Spread the apples over the dough. Keep them in an even layer. Leave a small border at the edges. It should look very full.

6. Add the Top Crust

Roll out the second piece of dough. Place it over the apples. Fold the edges to seal them. This keeps the juices inside.

7. Brush and Bake

Brush the top with egg wash. Cut small slits for steam. Bake at 375 degrees for one hour. The top should be golden brown.

8. Cool and Cut

Let the pan cool completely. This helps the filling set. Cut them into squares or bars. Serve them to your happy guests!

Tips to Make the Best Ina Garten Apple Pie Squares

• Use Cold Butter: Cold butter makes the crust flaky.
• Pick Tart Apples: Granny Smith apples stay firm.
• Don’t Overwork Dough: Mix it just until combined.
• Chill the Dough: Cold dough is easier to roll.
• Seal the Edges: This prevents the filling from leaking.
• Thin Apple Slices: Thin slices cook much faster.
• Let it Cool: Cutting too early makes a mess.
• Add Extra Cinnamon: It adds a deeper warm flavor.

FAQs about Ina Garten Apple Pie Squares

Can I use different apples?

Yes, you can use Gala apples. They are sweeter than Granny Smith.

How do I store them?

Keep them in an airtight container. They stay fresh for three days.

Can I freeze these squares?

Yes, you can freeze baked squares. Wrap them tightly in foil first.

Do I need a mixer?

No, you can use a fork. A mixer just makes it faster.

Is the lemon juice necessary?

Yes, it stops apples from turning brown. It also adds a nice zing.

Final Thoughts

The Ina Garten Apple Pie Squares Recipe is a winner. It is easy to make and serve. You do not need fancy pie plates.

Just a simple baking sheet works great. The crust is rich and buttery. The apples are perfectly spiced.

It is a crowd-pleaser for every season. Your friends will love the square shape. It makes it very easy to share.

Give this recipe a try this weekend. You will love how easy it is. Happy baking to you and your family!