Follow these straightforward steps to bring this beloved bakery treat to life:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, cut in the chilled butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add the ice water gradually, mixing until the dough just comes together. Avoid overworking the dough to maintain a tender crust.
4. Press the dough into the prepared baking dish, creating an even layer. Prick the surface with a fork to prevent bubbling.
5. Bake the crust for 15 minutes, until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
6. In a separate bowl, combine the apple slices, brown sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, cornstarch, and vanilla extract. Toss to coat the apples thoroughly.
7. Spread the apple mixture evenly over the pre-baked crust. Return to the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, until the apples are tender and bubbling.
8. Allow the apple slices to cool in the pan before cutting into squares. Serve warm or at room temperature.

For a personal touch, I love adding a sprinkle of nutmeg to the apple mix, a tip I picked up from my grandmother’s spice cabinet treasures.