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Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars

Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars combine the classic flavors of apple crisp with a buttery shortbread base, perfect for gatherings and embodying the essence of fall in every bite.
Print it Pin Recipe
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Fall
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Shortbread Base
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Ensure the butter is softened but not melted.
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
Apple Filling
  • 4 medium Granny Smith apples, peeled and thinly sliced Other apple varieties can be used.
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar Adjust based on the sweetness of apples.
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Crumble Topping
  • 3/4 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
  2. In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy.
  3. Add the flour and salt to the butter mixture, mixing until combined. Press the shortbread dough evenly into the prepared pan.
  4. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Set aside to cool slightly.
Apple Filling
  1. In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with granulated sugar, tablespoon of flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg until evenly coated.
  2. Layer the apple mixture over the pre-baked shortbread crust.
Crumble Topping
  1. In a medium bowl, mix together the oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
  2. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture forms coarse crumbs. Sprinkle the crumble evenly over the apple layer.
Baking
  1. Bake the bars for 30-35 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the crumble is golden brown.
  2. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.
Serving
  1. Once cooled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Slice into squares and serve.

Notes

These bars can be served warm or at room temperature. For an extra treat, consider adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top. A drizzle of caramel sauce can also elevate the flavors.