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A tray of golden apple crisp shortbread bars topped with cinnamon and caramelized apple slices, showcasing a warm, homemade dessert.

Ultimate Fall Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars: Easy & Delicious Dessert Recipe

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Enjoy the irresistible taste of Ultimate Fall Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars, a perfect fall dessert combining tender spiced apples, buttery shortbread crust, and crispy crumb topping. This easy and delicious recipe is ideal for cozy evenings, holiday gatherings, or any time you want a comforting treat. Made with fresh apples and flavorful spices, these dessert bars are a crowd-pleaser that brings warmth and sweetness to your table.

  • Total Time: 55-60 minutes
  • Yield: 9 bars

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3-4 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith or Fuji work well)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold)
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup old-fashioned oats

Instructions

  1. Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples. Toss with lemon juice and set aside.
  2. Mix granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg; sprinkle over apples and toss to coat evenly.
  3. Combine flour, brown sugar, salt, and oats in a bowl. Cut in cold butter until coarse crumbs form.
  4. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper or grease lightly.
  5. Press half of the shortbread mixture into the bottom of the prepared dish to form the crust.
  6. Spread the spiced apple slices evenly over the crust.
  7. Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over the apples, pressing lightly to adhere.
  8. Bake for 40-45 minutes until golden brown and bubbling around edges. Cool completely before slicing.

Notes

  • Ensure apple slices are well drained to prevent sogginess.
  • For extra crunch, add chopped pecans or walnuts to the crumb topping.
  • Can be prepared a day ahead; refrigerate before baking for enhanced flavor.
  • Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence.
  • Author: Emma Bloomfield
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Bake
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bar (about 1/9 of the recipe)
  • Calories: 220 Kcal
  • Sugar: 15g
  • Sodium: 70mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg