Apple Crisp Bars

Make the shortbread dough, then dollop pieces all over the bottom of the prepared pan.

Use your fingers or a rubber spatula to pat the shortbread into an even layers, getting into the sides and corners. Par-bake this layer.

Use a fork to mix together the ingredients for the streusel topping.

Peel, core, and slice the apples, then toss with the flour and spices.

Sprinkle ⅓ of the crisp topping on the par-baked shortbread.

Layer the apple slices, slightly overlapping, over all of the shortbread. Insert extra apple slices into areas with gaps.

Gently press down on all of the apples to make them as flat as possible.

Sprinkle on the remaining crumble, then finish baking. Cool completely in the refrigerator before cutting into slices.