Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars Recipe

If you’re looking for a fall-inspired treat that’s irresistibly buttery, sweet, and packed with tender-spiced apples, then these Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars are exactly what you need in your life. With a crumbly shortbread base, layers of cinnamon-kissed apples, and a golden crisp topping, this dessert combines all the cozy flavors of apple crisp in a perfectly portable bar form. Whether it’s a picnic, potluck, or a simple family dessert, these bars bring warmth and comfort in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars rely on just the right balance of simple, classic ingredients that each play their part in creating texture, flavor, and that perfect fall aroma. From the buttery crust to the spiced apple filling and crumbly topping, every element adds something special.

• Unsalted butter, ½ cup: Room temperature for easy creaming and buttery richness.
• Sugar, ¼ cup plus additional amounts: Provides sweetness and helps with caramelization in the topping.
• Vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon: Adds a warm, inviting depth to the dough.
• Salt, ¼ teaspoon: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• All-purpose flour, 1 ¾ cups (divided): The foundation for the shortbread crust and thickening the apple layer.
• Apples, 3 large: Peeled and thinly sliced for soft, tender fruit layers bursting with natural sweetness.
• Brown sugar, ¾ cup: Adds moisture and a rich molasses flavor, especially in the topping.
• Ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon: The perfect spice to bring warm notes that complement the apples.
• Ground nutmeg, ¼ teaspoon: A subtle hint of earthiness to elevate the apple filling.
• Butter for topping, ¼ cup: Melted or at room temperature to blend into the crumbly topping for golden crunch.

How to Make Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Shortbread Base

Start by preheating your oven to 300°F and lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment, letting the paper extend up the sides for easy removal later on. Beat ½ cup of room temperature unsalted butter on high speed for about 5 minutes until it’s light and creamy, then add ¼ cup sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Mix well before introducing 1 cup of flour and stirring until a crumbly dough forms. Press this dough firmly and evenly into your pan, then bake for 15 minutes to set a golden base.

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling

While the crust bakes, toss your peeled, thinly sliced apples with 2 tablespoons of flour, 2 tablespoons sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon nutmeg. This mixture softens the apples while infusing them with just the right amount of spice, making your bars utterly comforting and cozy with every forkful.

Step 3: Make the Crisp Topping

In a separate bowl, combine ½ cup flour and ¾ cup brown sugar. Cut in ¼ cup melted or room temperature butter until the topping resembles coarse crumbs. This crumbly mixture bakes up crispy and golden, bringing the classic apple crisp texture to these bars.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Remove the baked shortbread crust from the oven and immediately increase the oven temperature to 350°F. Sprinkle half the crumbly topping evenly over the crust, then layer your apple filling on top, keeping it level and even. Finally, sprinkle the remaining topping across the apples. Bake for 30 minutes at 350°F until the top turns a gorgeous golden brown and the apples are bubbly and tender.

Step 5: Cool and Chill

Let your Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars cool completely in the pan, then slip them into the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This chilling step firms up the bars, making them easy to cut neatly into 16 perfect squares without falling apart. Lift out using the parchment edges, slice, and enjoy!

How to Serve Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars

Garnishes

A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream turns these bars into an extra special dessert. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans can add charm and texture, while a drizzle of caramel sauce takes indulgence to the next level.

Side Dishes

Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars are a star on their own, but if you’re feeling fancy, serve alongside a hot cup of spiced chai tea or freshly brewed coffee. For brunch gatherings, they pair wonderfully with a crisp green salad or creamy yogurt.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these bars on a rustic wooden board for a cozy autumn vibe or arrange them next to sliced apples and cinnamon sticks for an inviting, decorative touch. You can even layer smaller pieces in mason jars with whipped cream for a charming dessert parfait presentation that’s perfect for parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once fully cooled and set, store your Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days—perfect for enjoying a little sweet treat throughout the week.

Freezing

You can freeze these bars for longer storage; just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. They will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving to preserve their texture and flavor.

Reheating

If you prefer your Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars warm, a quick zap in the microwave for 10-15 seconds does the trick without compromising the crumbly shortbread texture. For a crispier top, reheat them gently in a 325°F oven for 10 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use different types of apples?

Absolutely! Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji apples all work wonderfully. Just choose varieties that hold their shape when baked for the best texture.

Is it possible to make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend, you can enjoy Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars gluten-free. Just make sure the blend is suited for baking to maintain the right crumb.

Can I prepare the bars ahead of time?

Definitely. You can assemble them a day ahead and keep them refrigerated until ready to bake. This also allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

How do I get a crumbly topping instead of a doughy one?

Use cold butter when cutting into the brown sugar and flour mixture and avoid overmixing. This helps form those perfect crumbly clusters.

Can I make these bars dairy-free?

Yes, swap the butter for a vegan-friendly margarine or coconut oil. The texture might vary slightly but the flavors remain delicious.

Final Thoughts

Once you try these Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars, they’ll quickly become a cherished classic in your recipe collection. The sweet layers of tender apples, combined with buttery shortbread and a crunchy cinnamon topping, create a comforting dessert that’s just begging to be shared. Bake a batch, and watch how quickly they disappear—trust me, you’ll want to make them again and again!

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