5 Irresistible Reasons You’ll Love This Apple Crisp Bars Recipe: The Ultimate Fall Dessert with Shortbread Crust & Crumble Topping

If you’re looking to capture the essence of fall in a dessert that’s both easy to make and irresistibly delicious, this Apple Crisp Bars Recipe is just the answer! These apple crisp bars combine the buttery goodness of a shortbread crust, a sweet and spiced apple filling, and a crispy, crumbly topping. This perfect treat is easy to whip up and versatile enough to serve warm with ice cream or chilled for an on-the-go snack. With their layered textures and flavors, these bars are the ideal dessert for fall gatherings, family meals, or anytime you crave a taste of autumn.

Apple Crisp Bars with Shortbread Crust and Crumble Topping

olivia

"This delicious apple crisp bars recipe combines a buttery shortbread crust, a flavorful apple filling, and a crunchy crumble topping. Perfect for cozy fall days or holiday dessert tables."

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Calories 229 kcal

Ingredients

  

Shortbread Crust:

• ½ cup 113 g or 1 stick unsalted butter, at room temperature
• ¼ cup 50 g light brown sugar, packed
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 ¼ cups 147 g all-purpose flour

Apple Filling:

• 4 cups 500 g apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced (4-5 medium apples)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup 50 g granulated sugar

Crumble Topping:

• ½ cup 100 g packed light brown sugar
• ¼ cup 50 g granulated sugar
• ¾ cup 94 g all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 6 tablespoons 85 g chilled unsalted butter, cut into ½-inch cubes

Instructions

 

• Preheat the Oven:
• Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal of the bars.
• Make the Shortbread Crust:
• In a medium mixing bowl, beat the room-temperature butter and brown sugar until smooth and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract. Gradually add the flour, mixing until it forms a crumbly dough. Press this dough evenly into the lined baking dish to create a firm crust. Bake for 15 minutes, or until the edges turn a light golden brown. Set aside to cool slightly.
• Prepare the Apple Filling:
• In another bowl, mix the sliced apples with flour and granulated sugar until well-coated.
• Create the Crumble Topping:
• In a separate bowl, combine brown sugar, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, and salt. Add the chilled butter cubes and cut them in with a pastry cutter or fork until the topping resembles coarse crumbs.
• Assemble the Bars:
• Spread the apple filling evenly over the shortbread crust. Sprinkle the crumble topping over the apples, pressing it down gently to ensure it sticks.
• Bake:
• Place the pan in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling around the edges.
• Cool and Slice:
• Leave the bars in the pan to cool on a wire rack. Once fully cooled, lift them out using the parchment paper and cut into squares. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

• Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: These bars freeze well for up to 1 month. Wrap each bar individually for easy storage.
• Best Apples: Opt for tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and flavor in the filling.

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Nutrition Information (per bar):

• Calories: 229 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 33 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Cholesterol: 27 mg
• Sodium: 78 mg
• Potassium: 64 mg
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 20 g
• Vitamin A: 325 IU
• Vitamin C: 1 mg
• Calcium: 17 mg
• Iron: 1 mg

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Optional Serving Suggestions:

• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Keyword Apple Crisp Bars Recipe

Let’s dive into this detailed recipe guide, including everything from ingredients and substitutions to insider tips for achieving that perfect crispy topping and tender apple filling. Ready to enjoy the flavors of apple crisp in a handheld bar? Let’s get started!

Recipe Card

Recipe Name: Apple Crisp Bars with Shortbread Crust and Crumble Topping
Description: This delicious apple crisp bars recipe combines a buttery shortbread crust, a flavorful apple filling, and a crunchy crumble topping. Perfect for cozy fall days or holiday dessert tables.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Calories: 229 kcal per bar

Ingredients

Shortbread Crust

• ½ cup (113 g or 1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature
• ¼ cup (50 g) light brown sugar, packed
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 ¼ cups (147 g) all-purpose flour

Apple Filling

• 4 cups (500 g) apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced (4-5 medium apples)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar

Crumble Topping

• ½ cup (100 g) packed light brown sugar
• ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
• ¾ cup (94 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 6 tablespoons (85 g) chilled unsalted butter, cut into ½-inch cubes

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven
   Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal of the bars.
2. Make the Shortbread Crust
   In a medium mixing bowl, beat the room-temperature butter and brown sugar until smooth and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract. Add the flour gradually, mixing until it forms a crumbly dough. Press this dough evenly into the lined baking dish to create a firm crust. Bake for 15 min, or until the edges turn a light golden brown. Set aside to cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Apple Filling
   In another bowl, mix the sliced apples with flour and granulated sugar until well-coated. This simple mix creates a thickened filling that keeps the bars from getting too soggy.
4. Create the Crumble Topping
   In a separate bowl, combine brown sugar, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, and salt. Add the chilled butter cubes and cut them in with a pastry cutter or fork until the topping resembles coarse crumbs.
5. Assemble the Bars
   Spread the apple filling evenly over the shortbread crust. Sprinkle the crumble topping over the apples, pressing it down gently to ensure it sticks.
6. Bake
   Place the pan in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling around the edges.
7. Cool and Slice
   Leave the bars in the pan to cool on a wire rack. Once fully cooled, lift them out using the parchment paper and cut into squares. Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally topped with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Notes

• Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: These bars freeze well for up to 1 month. Wrap each bar individually for easy storage.
• Best Apples: Opt for tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and flavor in the filling.

Nutrition Information(Apple Crisp Bars Recipe)

• Serving Size: 1 bar
• Calories: 229 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 33 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Cholesterol: 27 mg
• Sodium: 78 mg
• Potassium: 64 mg
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 20 g
• Vitamin A: 325 IU
• Vitamin C: 1 mg
• Calcium: 17 mg
• Iron: 1 mg

Why You’ll Love This Apple Crisp Bars Recipe

1. Easy and Minimal Ingredients – This Apple Crisp Bars Recipe only calls for pantry basics, making it simple and accessible. No complicated steps, just straightforward goodness.
2. Perfect Fall Dessert – Packed with the warm flavors of cinnamon and apples, these bars make a delightful dessert during the fall season.
3. Great for Any Occasion – These apple crisp bars are easy to transport, making them ideal for potlucks, family gatherings, or holiday tables.
4. Flexible Serving Options – Serve them warm for dessert or cold as a snack; either way, these bars are a hit!
5. Make-Ahead Friendly – They hold up well in the fridge or freezer, so you can make them ahead and enjoy later.

Key Ingredients and Substitutions(Apple Crisp Bars Recipe)

Shortbread Crust

• Butter: Creates a rich, tender base. Unsalted is ideal, but if you only have salted butter, just reduce the added salt in the recipe.
• Brown Sugar: Adds a soft sweetness with a hint of molasses flavor, which pairs beautifully with the apple filling.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor profile of the shortbread crust, adding a warm, subtle note that complements the spiced apples.

Apple Filling

• Apples: Choose crisp or tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, as they retain their shape and don’t turn mushy when baked.
• Sugar: Balances the tartness of the apples while adding a bit of caramelization during baking.

Crumble Topping

• Brown and White Sugar: This combination of sugars gives the crumble topping a rich flavor and helps it caramelize in the oven.
• Cinnamon: Adds a classic spice that pairs beautifully with the apples.
• Chilled Butter: Keeps the topping crumbly and crispy. Soft butter won’t achieve the same texture, so keep it cold for best results.

How to Make Apple Crisp Bars (Step-by-Step)

1. Prepare the Shortbread Crust
   Cream the butter and brown sugar until smooth, then add vanilla and flour gradually. Press this crumbly mixture firmly into the pan for an even, sturdy base.
2. Toss the Apple Filling
   For even cooking, slice the apples thinly, then mix with flour and sugar. This mix keeps the filling juicy but not too watery, ensuring the bars set well.
3. Assemble the Crumble Topping
   Mix the sugars, flour, cinnamon, and salt, then cut in the chilled butter until the mixture becomes crumbly. Press it gently over the apple layer.
4. Layer and Bake
   Once the crust is pre-baked, add the apple filling and sprinkle with the crumble topping. Bake until the apples are tender and the topping turns golden brown.
5. Cool and Slice
   Let the bars cool completely before slicing to avoid crumbling. This resting time also lets the flavors meld for the best taste.

Expert Tips for Success

• Use Firm Apples: Crisp, tart apples work best as they don’t turn mushy.
• Pre-Bake the Crust: Don’t skip this step, as it ensures a solid base that doesn’t get soggy.
• Chill the Butter for the Topping: Cold butter keeps the topping crumbly. Soft butter can make it greasy.
• Let Bars Cool Completely: This allows the layers to set, so you get clean cuts and a well-formed bar.

Variations and Customizations

• Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make the crust and topping.
• Vegan-Friendly: Replace butter with a vegan alternative in both the crust and topping.
• Add Nuts: For extra crunch, add chopped pecans or walnuts to the crumble topping.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Room Temperature or Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the bars for up to a month. Wrap individually for easy thawing.
• Reheating: Warm bars in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-10 minutes or microwave briefly for a quick treat.

Serving Suggestions

Try pairing these Apple Crisp Bars with:

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of ice cream is the perfect companion to these warm, spiced bars.
• Whipped Cream: Light and airy, it complements the richness of the bars.
• Caramel Sauce: Drizzle over the bars for a touch of extra sweetness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are the best apples for baking these bars?
A: Opt for firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp to maintain texture. Softer apples may turn mushy during baking.

Q: Can these bars be made in advance?
A: Yes!They store well in the fridge or freezer and still taste delicious even after a few days.

Q: Can I freeze Apple Crisp Bars?
A: Absolutely!Freeze them for up to a month. Simply thaw in the fridge before enjoying.

Related Recipes

If you loved this Apple Crisp Bars Recipe, try:

• Classic Apple Pie: The timeless, comforting pie filled with warm spices and tender apples.
• Apple Cinnamon Muffins: Perfect for breakfast, with chunks of apple and a warm cinnamon flavor.
• Caramel Apple Blondies: Chewy blondies with apple pieces and a rich caramel drizzle.

Conclusion

This Apple Crisp Bars Recipe is a fall favorite, bringing together a buttery shortbread crust, tender apple filling, and a crispy crumble topping. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering, a cozy family dessert, or simply indulging your love for apple treats, these bars are sure to satisfy. Give this recipe a try, and embrace the comforting flavors of fall in every bite!