Flaky Cinnamon Apple Pastry Squares

Instructions

1. 1

   Make the apple filling: In a saucepan, combine the brown sugar, cornstarch, and water. Mix until well blended. Add the sliced apples and heat to boiling, stirring constantly. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and stir in the cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Set aside.

2. 2

   Make the pastry: In a bowl, combine the flour and salt. Cut in the cold shortening until the mixture is crumbly. Combine the egg yolks, water, and lemon juice, then blend into the flour mixture until it forms a ball. Divide the dough in half.

3. 3

   On a lightly floured surface, roll one half of the dough between two pieces of waxed paper to fit the bottom and halfway up the sides of a 13x9-inch baking pan. Spread the apple filling over the pastry. Roll the remaining dough to fit the pan exactly and place it on top of the filling. Fold the bottom pastry over the top and press to seal. Cut a few small slits in the top crust.

4. 4

   Bake at 400°F for about 40 minutes or until the pastry is lightly browned. For the glaze, combine the confectioners' sugar, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Drizzle the warm glaze over the pastry squares.