Ingredients
Scale
- 3 large apples (preferably Granny Smith or Fuji), peeled and sliced
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: chopped nuts or oats for extra crunch
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine sliced apples with granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Toss until evenly coated and set aside.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, salt, and vanilla. Add cold butter and mix until it resembles coarse crumbs. Press into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking dish.
- Spread prepared apple filling evenly over the crust. Sprinkle chopped nuts or oats over the apples if desired.
- Crumble remaining shortbread mixture over the apples, pressing lightly. Bake for 40-45 minutes until the topping is golden brown and apples are bubbly.
- Allow bars to cool completely before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature with ice cream or whipped cream.
Notes
- Use firm, tart apples for the best flavor balance.
- Chill the shortbread dough before pressing into the pan for a crumbly texture.
- Adjust spices to your preference for enhanced fall flavor.
- Brush the top with milk or egg wash for a shiny crust.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 200 Kcal
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg