Apple Crunch Bars

Directions

1. 1
   Combine first 3 ingredients in a bowl, beating well at medium speed of an electric mixer.
2. 2
   Reserve 2 cups flour mixture, and set aside.
3. 3
   Add baking soda and next 3 ingredients to remaining flour mixture; beat well.
4. 4
   Add vanilla and next 2 ingredients; beat well.
5. 5
   Stir in apple.
6. 6
   Press reserved 2 cups flour mixture into the bottom of a 9 x 13 x 2-inch baking pan coated with cooking spray.
7. 7
   Sprinkle walnuts over flour mixture.
8. 8
   Spread apple mixture over prepared crust.
9. 9
   Bake at 350 degrees for 40 minutes or until browned.
10. 10
    Cool completely in pan on a wire rack.
11. 11
    Yield: 24 servings (serving size: 1[2-1/4 x 2-1/8-inch] bar).
12. 12
    NOTES: Ann Lapinski, of Schenectady, New York, lightened her mother's crunchy dessert recipe and served it to her family.
13. 13
    They didn't notice any difference.