Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars

Name: Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 16 bars
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 tsp salt; 4 cups apples, peeled and diced; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 tsp cinnamon; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 cup rolled oats; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup butter, melted

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

These delightful Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars combine the sweet, tender flavor of baked apples with a buttery shortbread crust and a crunchy oat topping. Perfect for fall gatherings or cozy family dinners, these bars offer a delicious twist on traditional apple crisp, made easy for sharing! Treat your friends and family to a slice of comfort today.

Created by

Amber Walsh

Last updated on 2025-11-16T11:53:24.467Z

The Perfect Fall Dessert

As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, there's nothing quite like a warm dessert to bring comfort and joy. Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars capture the essence of fall with their inviting aroma and rich flavors. The combination of tender, cinnamon-spiced apples and buttery shortbread creates a perfect blend that can be enjoyed by all ages. Whether you're hosting a family gathering or simply enjoying a quiet evening, these bars are a delightful treat that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Baking helps create memories, and this recipe is ideal for those moments. The straightforward preparation allows even novice bakers to experience the joy of making a dessert from scratch. Each layer of the bars serves a purpose—from the crumbly shortbread base to the juicy apple filling and the crunchy oat topping, every bite is a flavorful experience that embodies home-cooked goodness. Let these bars be the centerpiece of your next fall celebration.

Customizing Your Bars

One of the best parts of baking is the ability to customize recipes to fit personal tastes or dietary preferences. With these Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars, you can make several substitutions to create your perfect treat. If you prefer a tangy flavor, consider adding dried cranberries or raisins to the apple filling. For a nutty crunch, you could also mix in some chopped pecans or walnuts with the topping, enhancing the texture and flavor profile.

Additionally, feel free to explore different apple varieties! While Granny Smith apples provide a tart balance, sweet options like Honeycrisp or Fuji can add a delightful sweetness to the bars. The versatility of this recipe means you can adjust it based on the season's freshest produce, giving you a tasty dessert that feels both unique and seasonal.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Ingredients

For the Shortbread Crust

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

For the Apple Filling

4 cups apples, peeled and diced
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tbsp lemon juice

For the Topping

1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup butter, melted

Mix all the ingredients together until well combined.

Instructions

Prepare the Crust

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until smooth. Gradually blend in the flour and salt. Press this mixture into the bottom of a greased baking dish.

Make the Apple Filling

In another bowl, combine the diced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Spread this mixture over the crust.

Prepare the Topping

In a separate bowl, mix the oats, flour, brown sugar, and melted butter. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the apple filling.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Allow to cool before cutting into squares. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Enjoy your homemade Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars!

Serving Suggestions

These Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars are delicious on their own, but pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream can elevate the experience. The cold creaminess adds a lovely contrast to the warm, spiced flavors of the bars. For an added touch, consider drizzling caramel sauce or a sprinkle of crushed nuts to add an extra element of decadence.

Serve these bars alongside a cup of hot cider or tea for a cozy afternoon snack or dessert. The pairing will enhance the flavors and create a warm, inviting atmosphere, perfect for gatherings with family and friends during autumn.

Healthier Alternatives

For those looking for a lighter version of this decadent treat, there are a few easy swaps you can make. Using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour can add fiber, while reducing the amount of sugar or substituting with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup will create a healthier profile without sacrificing flavor.

Another option is to replace half the butter in the crust and topping with unsweetened applesauce. This will reduce the fat content while still keeping the bars moist and tasty. These simple substitutions allow you to enjoy a comforting dessert while being mindful of your health.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other fruits?

Yes, pears or berries would also work well!

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.