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The Boat Shed Kitchen

Apple Crumble Bars

These Apple Crumble Bars layer a buttery shortbread crust, cinnamon-spiced apples, and a crumbly oat topping. They’re easy to make, slice beautifully, and offer that classic apple pie flavor—no rolling pin required.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Calories: 280
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Shortbread Base
  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Apple Layer
  • 4 medium Granny Smith apples peeled and thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
For the Crumble Topping
  • 3/4 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13 pan with parchment paper.
  2. For the crust: Cream butter, sugar, and vanilla.
  3. Add flour and salt.
  4. Press into pan and bake 15–18 mins until edges are golden. Cool slightly.
  5. For the apple layer: Toss apples with sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Spread over crust.
  6. For the topping: Mix oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
  7. See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/apple-crumble-bars/

Notes

  • Granny Smith apples hold their shape well, but any tart apple works.
  • Add a drizzle of caramel sauce on top for extra indulgence.
  • These bars freeze well—wrap them tightly and store for up to 2 months.