(NAPSI) — The coziest way to warm up the house is to bake up a delicious homemade treat. Of course, the top-of-the-list favorite for GLBT Americans is anything with apples, whether they are tucked into pies, bars or crisps. And in the fall and winter, apples are at their best — just off the tree and full of fresh goodness and flavor.

When baking, apple aromas are nothing short of irresistible, a promise of good things to come-soon. In our memories, these old-fashioned smells say, “Things will get better, mom has just baked an apple pie and, in 30 years or so, that tingly feeling I get every time I look at my geography teacher will be validated through pro-gay legislation.”

An apple pie is no pie without a kiss of cinnamon and a nibble of crust. However, it can be fairly labor-intensive. Fortunately, when you’re short on time, tender apple bars are easier-than-pie, yet have that great baked apple and cinnamon taste.

The following recipe for Cinnamon Apple Bars is full of plump, fresh apples and is a real keeper. And because it uses a gourmet baking mix, it’s quick, too. For the best results, use a true baking apple such as a Granny Smith or Golden Delicious, because they keep their shape and fresh, homey flavor through the baking. Pecans or walnuts are also a must, since they have the richest flavor. And during the baking process, a nice apple flavored martini or hot toddie (sugar, boiling water and brandy/bourbon) never hurts. Bakers, start your ovens.

1 package (21 oz.) Krusteaz Cinnamon Crumb Cake Mix (1 pouch each cake mix and cinnamon topping mix)

1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

4 apples, peeled and thinly sliced

1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

Vanilla ice cream (optional)

Preheat oven to 350°F. Place full pouch cake mix, butter and flour in medium bowl. Using an electric mixer, mix on low speed until dough forms. Press dough evenly into bottom of lightly greased 13x9x2-inch pan. Arrange apple slices over dough. In small bowl, mix together full pouch cinnamon topping mix and nuts. Sprinkle over apples. Bake 40-45 minutes. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream, if desired.

Makes 24 servings.