Apple Crisp Shortbread Bars
Delightful apple crisp shortbread bars featuring buttery shortbread, sweet cinnamon-infused apples, and a crunchy topping, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Shortbread Crust
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Make sure it is just softened to avoid greasy bars.
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
For the Apple Filling
- 3-4 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for best flavor.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice Prevents browning of apples.
For the Topping
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional) Suggestions: walnuts, pecans, or almonds.
Instructions
Preparation and Assembling
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla extract, salt, baking powder, and cinnamon. Mix until combined.
- Gradually add in the flour, mixing well to form a smooth dough.
- Press about two-thirds of the dough into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish to form the crust.
- In another bowl, combine the sliced apples, lemon juice, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Toss to coat the apples evenly.
- Spread the apple mixture over the shortbread crust.
- Crumble the remaining dough over the apples, followed by the rolled oats and chopped nuts, if using.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are bubbly.
- Allow the bars to cool before cutting them into squares and serving.
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Notes
Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or cool with a dusting of powdered sugar. Consider drizzling caramel sauce for an extra treat.