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; 2/3 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 3 cups peeled and diced apples; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 cup oats; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Experience a delightful fusion of sweet and buttery with these Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars! Featuring layers of buttery shortbread, spiced apple filling, and a crumbly oat topping, these bars are the perfect dessert for fall gatherings or cozy nights in. Easy to make and irresistibly delicious, they embody all the comforts of a classic apple crisp while offering the convenience of handheld treats.

Created by

Aubrey Whitman

Last updated on 2025-12-13T07:53:31.703Z

These Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars are the ultimate dessert for any apple lover. With rich layers of buttery shortbread, sweetened apple filling, and a delightful oat topping, they combine the best of both worlds - the classic apple crisp and the conveinence of bar cookies.

Perfect for Fall Gatherings

As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, nothing evokes the warmth of fall quite like apple desserts. Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars are the perfect addition to your fall gatherings, whether it’s a casual get-together with friends or a festive holiday celebration. Their delightful combination of buttery shortbread and spiced apple filling will surely impress your guests and become a staple at your seasonal events.

These bars are not just delicious; they are easy to slice and serve, making them an excellent choice for potlucks and parties. Each bite transports you to a cozy kitchen filled with the aroma of baked apples, bringing a sense of nostalgia and comfort. They are not only a treat for your taste buds but also a visual delight that enhances the appeal of your dessert table.

Time-Saving Convenience

In today’s busy world, finding the time to bake can be challenging. Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars offer a time-efficient solution without compromising on flavor or satisfaction. With a straightforward recipe that combines three delicious layers, you can prepare these bars in no time. The entire process, from mixing to baking, navigates smoothly and efficiently, ensuring you can enjoy the fruits of your labor sooner.

These delicious bars can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator, allowing you to serve them at your convenience. Their handheld size makes them easy to grab and enjoy on the go, perfect for busy families or individuals who love a quick snack or dessert without the fuss.

Versatile Serving Suggestions

Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars are incredibly versatile and can be tailored to suit your taste or occasion. Serve them warm, straight from the oven, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat. Alternatively, dust them with powdered sugar for a simple yet elegant finish. You can even drizzle caramel sauce over the top for that extra indulgence, elevating your dessert to gourmet status.

These bars also pair beautifully with a variety of beverages. A hot cup of spiced apple cider or a rich coffee balances the sweetness of the bars perfectly. Whether as an afternoon snack or a delightful dessert after dinner, you can adapt these bars to any meal or occasion, making them a versatile addition to your recipe collection.

Ingredients

For the Shortbread Layer

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2/3 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Apple Filling

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

For the Oat Topping

1 cup oats
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Gather all your ingredients before you begin for a smoother preparation process!

Instructions

Prepare the Shortbread Base

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in vanilla. Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.

Make the Apple Filling

In another bowl, combine the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Stir well and pour evenly over the shortbread layer in the baking dish.

Prepare the Oat Topping

In a separate bowl, combine oats, brown sugar, flour, cold butter, and cinnamon. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until crumbly. Sprinkle the oat mixture evenly over the apples.

Bake and Serve

Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown. Let it cool completely before cutting into bars. Enjoy!

Serve these delicious bars at room temperature or warmed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!

Storage Tips

If you happen to have leftovers (though they’re unlikely!), storing your Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars is a breeze. Allow them to cool completely, then cut them into bars and place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, remaining moist and delicious. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to three months in the freezer.

To enjoy a frozen bar, simply allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight or microwave it for a few seconds for a warm treat. This creates the perfect opportunity to enjoy your favorite dessert anytime you crave it.

Customizing Your Bars

One of the joys of baking is the ability to customize recipes to match your preferences. Feel free to experiment with different types of apples to achieve varying levels of sweetness and tartness in your filling. Varieties such as Granny Smith provide a lovely tartness that balances well with the sweetness of the shortbread and oat topping.

Additionally, you can incorporate other ingredients into the oat topping, such as chopped nuts or dried fruits, for added texture and flavor. A pinch of nutmeg or a splash of maple syrup can enhance the taste profile of the filling. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to create a dessert that is uniquely yours.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them a day in advance and store them in an airtight container in the fridge.

→ Can I freeze the Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars?

Absolutely! You can freeze the bars for up to 3 months. Make sure to wrap them well before freezing.