As I picked the last of the season’s apples, the sweet and spicy scent wafted through the crisp autumn air, sparking a delightful urge to create something comforting. Enter my Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars, a tantalizing fusion of buttery shortbread, tender apples, and a crunchy oat topping that captures the essence of fall in every bite. These bars are not just a treat; they’re an easy way to bring warmth to gatherings, and they reheat like a dream, making them perfect for weeknight snacking or a cozy dessert with tea. Plus, they can be made ahead, allowing you to effortlessly impress your guests or simply indulge yourself when that sweet craving strikes. Are you ready to dive into this delicious adventure and discover how to make these irresistible bars?

Why are these bars a must-try?

Irresistible Flavor: Bursting with the essence of fall, these Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars bring together the warm spices of cinnamon and the natural sweetness of apples for an unforgettable taste.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels, making it a breeze to whip up when unexpected guests arrive.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: These bars are great for gatherings—serve them warm with ice cream or chilled as a grab-and-go treat. They’ll have everyone coming back for seconds!
Versatile Options: Swap out apples for pears or mixed berries, allowing you to customize this recipe anytime you crave something sweet and comforting.
Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare them a day in advance, store in the fridge, and bring out at your next gathering or when you’re simply in need of a cozy snack—just like with my delicious Baked Oatmeal Bars or Key Lime Bars.

Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars Ingredients

• Dive into the magic of autumn with these delightful treats!

For the Shortbread Base

Butter – Choose unsalted butter for the best flavor and to control the saltiness!
Sugar – Granulated sugar creates a sweet, tender texture; you can use brown sugar for a richer taste.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides the structure for your shortbread; sift before measuring for lighter bars.
Salt – Just a pinch enhances the sweetness; don’t skip it!

For the Apple Layer

Apples – Tart varieties like Granny Smith are ideal for that perfect apple crisp flavor; feel free to substitute with pears or berries for a twist.
Cinnamon – Adds a warm, comforting spice; adjust according to your preference for a stronger kick!
Lemon Juice – A splash keeps the apples from browning and adds brightness to the flavor!

For the Oat Topping

Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats – Essential for a crunchy topping; avoid instant oats to prevent mushiness.
Brown Sugar – Brings a caramel-like sweetness to the topping; regular sugar works if you’re in a pinch!
Flour – Helps bind the oat mixture; use whole wheat for a nutty flavor.
Butter – Melted butter gives the topping a rich flavor and helps it crisp in the oven.

Gather these ingredients, and you’re one step closer to baking a batch of delightful Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars that are sure to warm your heart!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars

Step 1: Prep the Baking Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan. Grease the pan lightly with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. This will ensure your Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars bake evenly and release effortlessly after cooling.

Step 2: Make the Shortbread Base
In a mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of unsalted butter and ½ cup of granulated sugar until fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add 2 cups of all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt, mixing until just combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan, creating an even layer. Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly golden.

Step 3: Prepare the Apple Filling
While the shortbread base is baking, peel and slice 4 cups of tart apples like Granny Smith. In a bowl, toss the apple slices with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, ensuring they’re well-coated. Once your shortbread layer is ready, spread the apple mixture evenly over the warm base for a tender bite.

Step 4: Make the Oat Topping
In another bowl, mix together 1 cup of old-fashioned rolled oats, ½ cup of brown sugar, and 1/3 cup of all-purpose flour. Drizzle in ½ cup of melted butter, stirring until you achieve a crumbly texture. Sprinkle this oatmeal topping generously over the apples, ensuring every part is covered for that delicious crunch.

Step 5: Bake the Bars
Place the pan back in the oven and bake your Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars for 30–40 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and look for a bubbly center and a golden brown topping as indicators of doneness. The delightful aroma will fill your kitchen as they bake, inviting everyone to gather around!

Step 6: Cool and Slice
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. This step is crucial; cooling will help ensure clean cuts. After about an hour, use a sharp knife to slice the bars into squares, gently pulling away the parchment if used, to reveal your delicious creation.

Make Ahead Options

These Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars are a fantastic option for meal prep! You can prepare the shortbread base and the apple filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply make the shortbread, let it cool, and then layer the apple mixture over it before refrigerating. When you’re ready to bake, just add the oat topping and pop it in the oven for that freshly baked aroma everyone loves. To maintain quality, ensure the layers are well-wrapped, preventing moisture from making the shortbread soggy. This way, you’ll have delicious Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars ready to impress your guests or enjoy as a cozy snack whenever you like!

How to Store and Freeze Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars

Fridge: Store your Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Allow them to cool completely before covering to retain texture and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bars in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container, where they can last for up to 3 months.

Thawing: To enjoy your frozen bars, simply remove them from the freezer and let them thaw in the fridge overnight. You can also microwave them for a few seconds for a warm treat.

Reheating: If you like them warm, pop the bars in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through, which enhances the delightful flavors.

What to Serve with Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars?

Elevate your dessert experience with delightful sides that perfectly complement the warm, spiced flavors of these bars.

Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cool sensation of vanilla ice cream balances the warm spiced apple flavors and adds a luscious texture with each bite.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream enhances the delightful sweetness of the bars while adding an airy lightness that invites a second helping.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce takes these treats to new heights, enhancing their sweetness and adding a luxurious finish that will impress your guests.
Chai Tea: The spiced complexity of chai tea harmonizes beautifully with the flavors in the bars, making for a cozy pairing that warms the heart.

Pair your Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars with any of these options for a delightful experience that melds flavors and textures, ensuring every bite is unforgettable!

Expert Tips for Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars

Firm Pressing: Ensure you press the shortbread layer firmly into the pan to prevent crumbling when sliced; it’s key for maintaining structure.
Slice Smart: Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat slices, especially when the bars are still a bit warm.
Prep Ahead: These Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars can be baked a day in advance. Store in the refrigerator for easy serving when you need them!
Mix Varieties: Feel free to mix different fruits, like pears or mixed berries, for a unique flavor twist that complements the apple base.
Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on the bars as they bake; the topping should be golden brown, and the center should bubble slightly for perfect results.

Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars Variations

Get ready to enhance your Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars and make them truly your own with these delicious twists!

Fruit Variations: Substitute tart apples with pears, peaches, or mixed berries for a delightful change in flavor. Each fruit brings its own sweetness and character, making it a versatile treat year-round.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the shortbread base to elevate the warm spices. This adds a cozy complexity, enhancing the overall autumn vibe of your treats.
Gluten-Free Option: Use almond flour in place of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version. The almond flour provides a lovely nutty flavor, maintaining the bar’s delightful texture.
Nutty Crunch: Fold in some chopped walnuts or pecans to the oat topping for a delicious crunch. The added nuts introduce a contrasting texture, creating a heartier bite that’s irresistible!
Sweet Swaps: Try replacing some granulated sugar with maple syrup or honey in the oat topping. The natural sweetness will lend a delightful depth to each bite, reminiscent of a sunny autumn morning.
Heat It Up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper to the apple layer for a subtle heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness. This unexpected twist surprises the palate, making each bite more exciting!
Chocolate Delight: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled bars for a decadent finish. It finds a perfect balance with the apple’s sweetness, begging to be paired with a scoop of ice cream, similar to my Chocolate Chip Bars.
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle some caramel sauce over the top before serving for an indulgent touch. This transforms the bars into a dessert fit for a celebration, enhancing the autumn flavors beautifully.

Feel free to mix and match these variations to create your ultimate version of Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars! Enjoy every delightful bite, and share your creations with friends over a cozy gathering.

Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best apples for the filling?
Absolutely! Look for tart apples like Granny Smith, which hold up well during baking and offer a nice balance of sweetness and tartness. If you prefer to experiment, pears or even mixed berries can be delightful substitutions.

What’s the best way to store leftover bars?
Very simply! Store your Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just ensure they are completely cool before covering them to maintain their texture and flavor.

Can I freeze Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars? How?
Definitely! To freeze your bars, first allow them to cool completely, then line them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer-safe container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap; they’ll keep well for up to 3 months. For thawing, place them in the fridge overnight; if you’re in a hurry, a brief microwave session will do the trick too!

What can I do if my shortbread base crumbles when slicing?
Oh no, that can be frustrating! To prevent this, ensure you press the shortbread layer firmly into the pan before baking. If they still seem crumbly, try using a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neater slices. And remember, allow the bars to cool completely before attempting to slice them.

Is this recipe suitable for people with nut allergies?
Yes, indeed! This recipe is nut-free, making it safe for those with nut allergies. Just make sure to choose ingredients that are certified nut-free, especially if you’re using processed items like oats or butter. Always check the labels to ensure they’re safe!

Can I make these bars vegan?
Certainly! To make vegan Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter. Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) instead of regular eggs if you want to experiment further with a slightly different texture. Enjoy your delightful vegan twist!

Cozy Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars for a Sweet Fall Treat

These Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars blend buttery shortbread, tender apples, and a crunchy oat topping, making them a perfect fall dessert.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 45

Cooling Time 1

Total Time 2 5

Servings: 12 bars

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 250

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Shortbread Base

1 cup unsalted butter room temperature
½ cup granulated sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour sifted
1 teaspoon salt

For the Apple Layer

4 cups tart apples like Granny Smith, peeled and sliced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon cinnamon

For the Oat Topping

1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
½ cup brown sugar
⅓ cup all-purpose flour
½ cup butter melted

Equipment

9x13-inch baking pan
Mixing bowls
Sharp Knife
Wire rack

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions for Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x13-inch baking pan by greasing it lightly with butter or lining it with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing until just combined. Press mixture into the prepared pan and bake for 15 minutes.
While the shortbread base is baking, toss the apple slices with lemon juice and cinnamon. Once baked, spread the apple mixture over the shortbread layer.
Mix together the rolled oats, brown sugar, and flour. Drizzle in melted butter, stirring until crumbly, then sprinkle over the apple layer.
Bake for 30-40 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Let cool completely on a wire rack.
Once cooled, slice into squares and enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1barCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 2gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 100mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 2gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg

Notes

These bars can be made one day in advance and are perfect served warm or chilled. Feel free to swap apples with other fruits like pears or mixed berries for a twist.

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