Name: Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 12 bars
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups all-purpose flour; ½ cup granulated sugar; ½ teaspoon salt; 3 large apples, peeled and diced; ⅓ cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; ¼ teaspoon nutmeg; 1 cup old-fashioned oats; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 2 tablespoons lemon juice

Hey y’all! Are you ready for a dessert that’s equal parts cozy, buttery, and packed with apple goodness? These Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars are a delightful mashup of classic apple crisp and rich shortbread, with the perfect crumbly topping and gooey apple filling. They’re just right for potlucks, holidays, or when you’re craving something sweet and comforting. Let’s get cooking!

Why You'll Love This Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars Recipe

The layers of buttery shortbread and apple filling are incredibly satisfying.
Easy to prep ahead for stress-free entertaining or snacking.
Versatile enough to serve warm, at room temperature, or cold.
Pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Packed with real apples and a hint of cinnamon for classic comfort flavor!

Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars Ingredients

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
2 cups all-purpose flour
½ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup packed light brown sugar
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
3 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup old-fashioned oats
Extra 2 tablespoons brown sugar for topping

How to Make Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Shortbread Base

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
In a medium bowl, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and ¼ cup brown sugar until light and creamy.
Add the flour, salt, and mix until a soft dough forms.
Press about ⅔ of this shortbread dough evenly into the prepared pan to form the base. Reserve the remaining dough for the crumble topping.

Step 2: Make the Apple Filling

In a large bowl, toss diced apples with lemon juice, cornstarch, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, and vanilla extract until well coated.
Spread the apple mixture in an even layer over the shortbread base.

Step 3: Prepare the Crisp Topping

Mix the oats and 2 tablespoons brown sugar into the reserved shortbread dough until crumbly.
Evenly sprinkle this oat mixture over the apples.

Step 4: Bake the Bars

Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are bubbling.
Let the bars cool completely in the pan before lifting out and slicing for clean edges.

Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars Notes

For best texture, let baked bars cool completely before slicing—this helps them hold their shape beautifully.
Use a parchment overhang to lift the bars from the pan easily. For more apple variety ideas, see Bon Appetit’s guide to baking apples.
If you enjoy a gooier filling, add another apple or cut the pieces larger. Learn more about thickening fruit fillings at King Arthur Baking.

Variations on Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars

Pecan Crunch: Mix ⅓ cup chopped pecans into the crisp topping.
Gluten-Free: Substitute your favorite gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the regular flour.
Berry Blend: Swap half of the apples for fresh or frozen berries for a fruity twist.

Required Equipment for Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars

8x8-inch baking pan
Mixing bowls
Electric mixer or sturdy spatula
Parchment paper
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board

Storage Instructions for Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars

Store Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze bars (well wrapped) for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars Serving Suggestions

Top warm bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate treat.
Sprinkle a hint of sea salt or caramel drizzle for a gourmet touch.
Pair with a hot cup of coffee or spiced tea for a delicious afternoon snack.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars

Use cold butter for a crumblier topping and creamier shortbread—learn more about the difference at Sally's Baking Addiction.
Cut apples into uniform pieces so they cook evenly and don’t get mushy.
If your dough feels sticky, chill it for 10 minutes before pressing into the pan for cleaner layers.

Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars FAQ

Can I use other fruits instead of apples?: Absolutely! Try pears, peaches, or a berry mix—just toss with a bit more cornstarch if they’re extra juicy.
How do you keep the base from getting soggy?: Pressing the crust firmly and using cornstarch in the filling helps keep the base sturdy.
Can I make Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars ahead of time?: Yes—these bars taste great made a day in advance and are even easier to cut once fully cooled.

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars