
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Apple Crisp is a perfect dessert for those who love the combination of sweet and tart flavors. The tender apples pair beautifully with the crunchy, cinnamon-sugar topping, making every bite satisfying. It’s a comforting dessert that’s great for cooler weather, and it’s incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you serve it on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, Apple Crisp is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 6-8 medium-sized apples (such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Peel, core, and slice the apples, then place them in a large mixing bowl. Toss the apples with lemon juice, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Transfer the apple mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter to the mixture and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to incorporate the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Sprinkle the topping evenly over the apples in the baking dish.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown and crisp.
- Allow the Apple Crisp to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Total Time: 55-60 minutes
Variations
- Add nuts: You can add chopped walnuts or pecans to the topping for an added crunch.
- Spices: Feel free to experiment with different spices like allspice or cloves for a unique twist on the flavor.
- Use different fruits: You can replace some or all of the apples with pears or berries to create a different flavor profile.
- Gluten-free: Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Vegan: Use a plant-based butter substitute and ensure the oats are certified gluten-free to make this recipe vegan.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Allow the Apple Crisp to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for 30-45 seconds.
FAQs
Can I make Apple Crisp ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the topping and apples separately, store them in the refrigerator, and assemble the crisp when you’re ready to bake.
What kind of apples should I use for Apple Crisp?
Granny Smith apples are popular for their tartness, but you can also use Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala apples for a sweeter flavor.
Can I freeze Apple Crisp?
Yes, you can freeze Apple Crisp before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the crisp and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to bake, cook it from frozen, adding about 10 extra minutes to the baking time.
Can I substitute the butter in this recipe?
Yes, you can use margarine or coconut oil as a butter substitute, but the flavor may change slightly.
How do I prevent the topping from becoming soggy?
Make sure to use cold butter when making the topping, and avoid adding too much liquid to the apples. A crumbly topping is ideal for a crisp texture.
How can I make Apple Crisp less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of sugar in the filling or topping if you prefer a less sweet dessert. You can also use a sugar substitute like Stevia or monk fruit.
Can I serve Apple Crisp with ice cream?
Absolutely! Apple Crisp pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even a dollop of yogurt.
How do I know when my Apple Crisp is done baking?
The crisp is done when the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown and crispy. You can also check the apples with a fork to see if they’re soft.
Can I use pre-sliced apples for this recipe?
While it’s best to use fresh, whole apples for optimal texture, you can use pre-sliced apples if you’re short on time. Just be sure they are not too mushy.
Is Apple Crisp gluten-free?
This recipe contains gluten due to the all-purpose flour. To make it gluten-free, substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Conclusion
Apple Crisp is an irresistible dessert that is simple to make, yet full of flavor. With its sweet apples and crunchy topping, it’s sure to be a favorite in your household. Whether you enjoy it with a scoop of ice cream or on its own, this comforting treat is perfect for any time of year, especially during the fall when apples are in season. Enjoy!