Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars

Name: Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 3 cups apples, peeled and chopped; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 cup rolled oats; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/3 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Treat yourself to a delightful fusion of flavors with these Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars, featuring buttery shortbread layered with sweet, spiced apples and a crunchy oat topping. Perfect for dessert or a cozy afternoon snack, these bars are a simple yet impressive addition to your cookie repertoire, sure to please all apple lovers.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-28T08:50:15.224Z

The Appeal of Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars

Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars offer a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that is both satisfying and comforting. The buttery shortbread base provides a rich, crumbly foundation, while the warm, spiced apple filling brings a delightful sweetness and flavor reminiscent of autumn. Topped with a crunchy oat mixture, these bars are not only visually appealing but also irresistible to the taste buds.

Whether you're looking to impress guests at a gathering or simply want to indulge in a sweet treat with your afternoon tea, these bars are a versatile choice. They can be enjoyed warm out of the oven, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, or they can be served chilled, making them an excellent make-ahead option for busy days.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars are perfect for any occasion, be it a family gathering, holiday celebration, or a casual snack at home. Their comforting flavors appeal to both kids and adults, making them a favorite for school lunches, potlucks, and parties. Plus, they slice beautifully into perfect squares, making them easy to serve.

In addition, these bars are incredibly easy to customize. Feel free to mix in nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch, or replace some of the apples with your favorite fruits, such as pears or berries. This adaptability allows you to tailor the recipe to fit different tastes and preferences, ensuring everyone can enjoy a delightful bite.

Baking Tips for Success

To ensure your Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars turn out perfectly, there are a few baking tips to consider. First, make sure your butter is adequately softened for the shortbread base; this helps achieve the correct texture when creaming with sugar. If you forget to take it out in advance, you can cut it into small cubes and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes.

Another key tip is to use tart apples, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, which balance the sweetness of the brown sugar and create an enticing flavor profile. Additionally, be mindful of the cooking time; every oven is different, so check for doneness as the bars approach the 30-minute mark. The topping should be golden brown, and the apples beneath should be tender for the best results.

Ingredients

For the Shortbread Base

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Apple Filling

3 cups apples, peeled and chopped
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Crunchy Topping

1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/3 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions

Prepare the Shortbread Base

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the flour and salt until just combined.

Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9x13 inch baking pan.

Make the Apple Filling

In a separate bowl, combine the chopped apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Mix until the apples are well coated.

Assemble the Bars

Spread the apple mixture evenly over the shortbread base. In another bowl, combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon for the topping. Sprinkle this mixture over the apples.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender.

Cool and Serve

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, making them an excellent treat for meal prep or baking in advance. If you prefer to keep them longer, they can be refrigerated for up to a week, or frozen for several months. To freeze, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight freezer bag.

For serving, warm the bars in the oven for a few minutes before enjoying, or serve them chilled with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. This dessert pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, enhancing the cozy experience.

Nutritional Information

Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars, while indulgent, can also offer some nutritional benefits. Apples are a fresh fruit packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants that play a crucial role in promoting good health. When baked, they retain some of their nutrients, making each bar a tasty yet guilt-free option.

While these bars do contain sugar and butter, serving them in moderation allows you to enjoy a delicious treat without derailing your health goals. Remember to pair them with wholesome meals throughout the day for balanced nutrition.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other fruits?

Yes, you can substitute the apples with pears or berries.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.