Apple Pecan Dessert Squares

If you have about 2 medium apples on hand this is an excellent cake. I used the 11x7 size pan and it worked perfectly. Also with the electric oven, I shut the oven off and put the cake and topping in for 4 minutes, this worked well.  I think any longer would set the topping up too much and it would not soak into the cake. Really good dessert and easy to make.

Apple Pecan Dessert Squares

Apple Layer

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 3/4 cup packed brown sugar

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

3/4 cup butter

2 cups chopped peeled tart apples (about 2 medium)

1 egg slightly beaten

Topping

3/4 cup packed brown sugar

1/2 cup finely chopped pecans

2 tablespoons butter

2 tablespoons honey

2 tablespoons milk

1. Heat oven to 350°. Spray or grease 11x7 or 9” square pan. In large bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and baking soda.

2. With pastry blender or fork, cut in the butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in apples and egg. Press mixture firmly in pan. Bake 25 to 30 minutes or until puffed in center.

3. Meanwhile, in 1 quart saucepan, combine all topping ingredients. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until mixture comes to a boil. Boil 1 minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat.

4. Remove apple layer from oven. Drizzle hot topping over warm apple layer; spread evenly. Return to oven; bake 4 to 6 minutes longer or until topping is bubbly. Cool completely, about 1 1/2 hour. Cut into squares. Serve with whipped topping.

Pillsbury Best of the Holidays Nov. 2004