Description
These Apple Shortbread Bars are the perfect fall dessert with a buttery crust, sweet apple filling, and a crumbly topping. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy!
Ingredients
Shortbread Crust:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
Apple Filling:
- 3 large apples (such as Granny Smith), peeled and finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- Prepare the crust: In a mixing bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press two-thirds of the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a crust.
- Make the filling: In a separate bowl, toss the chopped apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Spread the apple mixture evenly over the crust.
- Add the topping: Crumble the remaining shortbread mixture over the top.
- Bake: Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and the filling is bubbly. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Notes
- For added crunch, mix chopped walnuts or pecans into the topping.
- These bars can be served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or chilled for a firmer texture.
