These Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars are a tasty treat! With a buttery shortbread base and sweet apple filling topped with a crunchy oat mixture, they’re perfect for any gathering.
I love how easy they are to make! Just layer the ingredients, bake, and enjoy. They make our kitchen smell amazing, and they disappear fast—so grab a plate before they’re all gone! 😄
Ingredients & Substitutions
Unsalted Butter: I always use unsalted butter for better control over the salt in baked goods. If you’re out, you can substitute it with margarine or vegan butter, but keep in mind the flavor might differ slightly.
Granulated Sugar: This sugar is perfect for sweetness in the crust and filling. If you prefer a less refined option, you can try using coconut sugar or a sugar substitute, but the texture may change a bit.
Apples: Granny Smith apples bring tartness to balance the sweetness. However, Honeycrisp or Fuji apples work well too if you like a sweeter flavor. Feel free to mix different types for a unique taste!
Rolled Oats: The oats in the crumb topping add nice texture. If you prefer a gluten-free option, you can use certified gluten-free oats instead.
How Do I Make a Flaky Shortbread Crust?
A flaky shortbread crust is essential for these bars. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start with softened butter; this ensures easier blending. I like to leave it out for about 30 minutes before mixing.
- When you cream the butter and sugar, do it until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for incorporating air and creating a nice texture.
- Gradually mix in the flour and salt until just combined. Don’t overwork the dough; it should be crumbly but hold together when pressed.
- Press about 2/3 of the dough firmly into the pan. Make sure it’s even and covers all edges to avoid a soggy bottom.
Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shortbread Crust:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Apple Filling:
- 4 cups apples, peeled, cored, and finely chopped (about 3 medium apples; preferably Granny Smith or tart apples)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
For the Crumb Topping:
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
- Optional: 1/2 cup rolled oats for more texture
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation, and you’ll need to bake it for about 45 to 50 minutes. After baking, let the bars cool completely before cutting them, which might take another 30 minutes. So, you’re looking at around 1.5 hours total, including prep and cooling time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper so it’s ready for the batter!
2. Make the Shortbread Crust:
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until the dough comes together. It should be crumbly but hold together when pressed.
3. Press the Crust in the Pan:
Press about 2/3 of the shortbread dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan, making sure it forms a firm, even base for your bars.
4. Prepare the Apple Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine the chopped apples, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and flour. Toss these ingredients together until the apples are well coated in the mixture.
5. Add the Apple Filling:
Spread the apple mixture evenly over the shortbread base. Make sure to cover it well for a delicious bite every time!
6. Make the Crumb Topping:
In another bowl, mix the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add the cold butter pieces and use a pastry cutter, two forks, or your fingers to blend until it forms coarse crumbs. If you’re using oats, stir them in to add some extra texture.
7. Top the Apples:
Evenly sprinkle the crumb topping over the apple layer. This will create a delicious, crunchy topping when baked!
8. Bake:
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake it for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling.
9. Cool and Cut:
Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This step is important for nice, clean cuts. It should take about 30 minutes.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Cut the bars into squares and serve them as is or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!
Enjoy your delicious Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars! They’re sure to be a hit with family and friends!
Can I Use Frozen Apples for the Filling?
Yes, you can use frozen apples! Just thaw them before mixing with the other filling ingredients. Make sure to drain any excess liquid to avoid a soggy filling.
How Can I Make These Bars Gluten-Free?
To make them gluten-free, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Most blends work well in recipes like this, but ensure it includes xanthan gum for best results.
Can I Prepare These Bars in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the bars a day ahead. Just keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want to make them further in advance, they can also be frozen. Just wrap them tightly and thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Bars?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to a week. To refresh them, just pop them in the microwave for a few seconds before enjoying!
