Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars combine two beloved desserts into one irresistible treat. The buttery, crumbly shortbread crust serves as the perfect foundation for sweet, cinnamon-spiced apples, all topped off with a crispy crumble. Whether you’re craving something warm and comforting or preparing a crowd-pleasing dessert for a gathering, these Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars are sure to hit the mark.
What makes these Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars so special is their texture and flavor. The shortbread crust provides a rich, melt-in-your-mouth base, while the apple filling offers the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. The crumble topping, made from flour, sugar, and cinnamon, gives the bars that satisfying crunch everyone loves. Together, these layers create a dessert that’s as comforting as it is delicious.
Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars are versatile enough to serve at any occasion—whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a holiday gathering, or an afternoon treat with coffee. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, these bars are easy to make and perfect for sharing with loved ones.
Why You’ll Love Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars
• Perfectly Balanced Flavors: These Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars feature a delicate balance of rich, buttery shortbread, sweet cinnamon-spiced apples, and a crisp topping. Every bite offers a satisfying combination of textures and flavors.
• Simple Ingredients: With just a few pantry staples like butter, sugar, flour, and apples, you can create a dessert that tastes like it came straight from a bakery.
• Easy to Make: No need for complicated techniques or special tools—just a few simple steps, and you’ll have these Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars ready to bake.
• Versatile: These bars can be served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a cozy treat, or enjoyed at room temperature as a snack or dessert. They’re just as delicious either way!
What Are Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars?
Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars are a simple yet elegant dessert made up of three delicious layers. The base layer is a buttery shortbread crust, followed by a layer of sweetened, spiced apple slices. The final layer is a crunchy crumble topping that gives the bars their signature crispiness.
These Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars are inspired by the classic apple crisp, but with the added bonus of a shortbread crust that adds richness and flavor. The apples provide a tangy contrast to the sweet crumble, making every bite a perfect balance of textures and tastes.
Ingredients for Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars
The beauty of Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars lies in their simplicity. With just a few key ingredients, you can make a dessert that’s both easy and incredibly satisfying. Here’s what you’ll need:
• Butter: Unsalted butter forms the base of both the shortbread crust and the crumble topping. Its richness enhances the flavor of the Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars, creating that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Sugar: Granulated sugar is used in both the crust and the topping. It helps create the sweetness and caramelization that make these Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars so addictive.
• Flour: All-purpose flour provides the structure for both the crust and the crumble topping. It gives the Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars a tender texture and helps the crust hold together.
• Apples: The star of the show! Choose apples that hold up well during baking, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. These apples are firm and tart, making them perfect for this recipe.
• Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon adds warmth and spice to the apple filling, enhancing the natural flavors of the fruit.
• Vanilla Extract (Optional): A touch of vanilla adds a rich, aromatic depth to the crust and crumble topping.
With these basic ingredients, you’re ready to make the most delicious Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars! The best part is that you can experiment with different varieties of apples or even swap in a different type of flour if you prefer.
How to Make Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you have the ingredients ready, let’s get into how to make these delightful Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars. This recipe comes together easily with just a few steps. Follow along to create the perfect dessert for your next gathering or a cozy afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 3-4 medium apples (about 4 cups), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (for the apple filling)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for the apple filling)
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar (for the topping)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for the topping)
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (for the topping)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 6 tbsp cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes (for the topping)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Shortbread Crust:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring there is extra paper hanging over the edges for easy removal later. Spray the paper with non-stick cooking spray for extra assurance. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the cold butter and granulated sugar for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract (if using) and mix until incorporated. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until the dough is crumbly but starts to come together. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake the shortbread crust for 12-14 minutes or until it’s slightly puffed and golden. Remove from the oven and set aside while you prepare the apple filling and crumble topping. - Prepare the Apple Filling:
Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples. Place them in a large bowl and toss with the flour and sugar to ensure the apples are evenly coated. This will prevent the apple filling from becoming too runny during baking. Arrange the apple slices evenly over the pre-baked shortbread crust, pressing them down gently to form a uniform layer. - Make the Crumble Topping:
In a medium bowl, combine the light brown sugar, granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, cinnamon, and salt. Add the cold butter cubes to the dry mixture and use a pastry cutter or two knives to cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture forms pea-sized crumbles. The cold butter will help create a crumbly, crispy topping. Evenly distribute the crumble topping over the apple filling, making sure to cover all the apples. Some apple slices should still be visible through the crumble, allowing the jammy apple filling to peek through. - Bake the Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars:
Place the pan back into the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbly. Keep an eye on the bars to avoid over-baking, as the topping can darken quickly. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares.
Tips for Perfect Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars
• Use Firm Apples: For the best texture, use apples that hold up well to baking, such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn apples. Avoid softer apples like Red Delicious, as they can become mushy during baking.
• Chill the Butter for the Topping: To get the perfect crumble topping, make sure the butter is cold. This will help create a crisp, flaky topping that contrasts nicely with the tender apple filling.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: For a tender, melt-in-your-mouth shortbread crust, avoid overmixing the dough. Mix until the ingredients are just combined, and the dough remains crumbly.
• Let the Bars Cool Completely: Let the bars cool completely before cutting them into squares. This ensures the filling sets properly and makes it easier to slice cleanly.
Storing and Serving Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars
Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars are a fantastic dessert to make ahead of time. Whether you’re preparing for a special occasion or just want a treat to enjoy throughout the week, knowing how to store and serve these bars properly can help maintain their flavor and texture.
Storage Tips:
- Room Temperature: Once the Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars have completely cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to 5 days. Keep the container sealed to prevent them from becoming stale.
- Refrigeration: If you want to extend their shelf life, you can store the bars in the refrigerator. They will remain fresh for up to 1 week. Refrigerating them also makes them slightly firmer, which some people prefer.
- Freezing: These bars freeze well for longer storage. After the bars have completely cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or plastic bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve Warm: Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars are delicious when served warm. You can reheat them in the microwave or oven for a few minutes before serving. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on top makes them extra indulgent.
- Serve at Room Temperature: These bars are also great at room temperature, making them an excellent option for potlucks, picnics, or afternoon snacks.
- Add a Drizzle: For an extra touch, drizzle caramel sauce or a dusting of powdered sugar over the bars before serving. This will elevate the dessert and add a little extra sweetness.
Why Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars Are Perfect for Any Occasion
Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars are versatile and work well for many different occasions. Here are a few reasons why these bars should be part of your dessert repertoire:
1. Ideal for Fall Gatherings:
The combination of apples, cinnamon, and buttery shortbread makes these bars perfect for fall. Whether you’re hosting a Thanksgiving dinner or an autumn potluck, Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars will complement the season’s flavors beautifully.
2. A Perfect Gift:
If you’re looking for a homemade gift to share with friends or family, these bars are an excellent choice. Package them in a cute gift box or tin, and they’ll make a thoughtful and delicious gift that anyone will appreciate.
3. Great for Breakfast or Brunch:
Though these bars make a fantastic dessert, they’re also perfect for breakfast or brunch. Pair them with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delicious start to the day.
4. Easy to Make in Batches:
Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars are perfect for making in large quantities, whether you’re feeding a crowd or want to have some bars on hand for later. They’re easy to store and can be made ahead of time, making them a hassle-free option when you need to bring something to a party or event.
Final Thoughts on Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars
Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars are a perfect dessert for any occasion. Their buttery shortbread base, sweet apple filling, and crisp topping create a dessert that everyone will love. Whether served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoyed at room temperature as a snack, these bars are guaranteed to satisfy your cravings.
With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a dessert that’s as comforting as it is delicious. The best part is that you can customize the recipe to suit your tastes, experimenting with different types of apples or adding extras like nuts or a touch of caramel.
So, the next time you’re in the mood for a sweet treat, give these Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars a try. They’re easy, versatile, and simply irresistible!
The Best Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring there is extra paper hanging over the edges.
- Make the Shortbread Crust: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the cold butter and granulated sugar for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract (if using) and mix until incorporated. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until the dough is crumbly. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.
- Prepare the Apple Filling: Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples. In a large bowl, toss the apples with the flour and sugar until evenly coated. Arrange the apples over the baked shortbread crust.
- Make the Crisp Topping: In a medium bowl, combine brown sugar, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or two knives to cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture forms pea-sized crumbles. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the apples.
- Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the apple filling is bubbly. Remove from the oven and let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Notes
- Apple Variety: For the best results, use tart, firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Avoid soft apples like Red Delicious, as they can turn mushy during baking.
- Make Ahead: These bars can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: After cooling, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Nutritional Facts (per bar):
| Nutrient | Amount per bar |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Total Fat | 15g |
| Saturated Fat | 9g |
| Cholesterol | 30mg |
| Sodium | 85mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 20g |
| Protein | 2g |