Description
These Apple Crisp Bars are buttery, sweet, and perfectly spiced—an irresistible fall dessert that’s easier than pie but just as comforting. With layers of tender apples, cinnamon-sugar filling, and a golden crumble topping, each bar is a cozy bite of autumn. Ideal for Thanksgiving dessert trays, potlucks, or just a weekend treat, these bars are portable, easy to make, and crowd-pleasing. Serve them warm with a drizzle of caramel or a scoop of ice cream, or enjoy them as a quick snack with your favorite cup of coffee.
Ingredients
For the Crust & Topping:
-
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
-
1 cup granulated sugar
-
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
-
3 cups all-purpose flour
-
1/2 tsp salt
For the Apple Filling:
-
4 medium apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
-
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
-
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
-
1 tsp ground cinnamon
-
1/4 tsp nutmeg
-
1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
-
In a large bowl, cream butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy. Mix in flour and salt until crumbly.
-
Press half of the mixture firmly into the prepared pan to form the crust.
-
In another bowl, toss apples with brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla. Spread evenly over the crust.
-
Sprinkle remaining crumb mixture over the apples, pressing lightly.
-
Bake for 40–45 minutes, until golden brown and bubbling.
-
Cool completely before slicing into bars.
Notes
Granny Smith apples give the best tart balance, but Honeycrisp or Gala work too.
Add 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.
Chill before cutting for clean, even bars.