Name: Apple Brown Betty
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4–5 apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1/3 cup brown sugar (for apples); 1 tbsp granulated sugar (optional); 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional); 1/4 tsp salt; 4 cups day-old bread, torn or cubed (white, whole wheat, or brioche); 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted; 1/3 cup brown sugar (for bread mixture); Optional: 1/4 cup raisins or chopped nuts; Optional: 1 tsp vanilla extract

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Apple Brown Betty is as comforting as dessert gets. It’s easy to make with everyday ingredients, has a rich apple flavor accented by warm spices, and a deliciously crisp top that contrasts beautifully with the soft, tender filling. It’s less fussy than pie or crisp but delivers the same sweet satisfaction. Whether served plain or topped with cream or ice cream, this dessert is a timeless classic.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix)
Day-old bread (white, whole wheat, or brioche)
Brown sugar
Granulated sugar (optional)
Ground cinnamon
Ground nutmeg (optional)
Salt
Lemon juice
Unsalted butter (melted)
Optional: raisins or chopped nuts
Optional: vanilla extract

Directions

Preheat your oven and lightly grease a baking dish.
Peel, core, and slice the apples thinly. Toss with lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and sugar.
Tear or cube the bread into small pieces. Mix with melted butter and a bit of brown sugar.
In the prepared dish, layer half the buttery bread mixture, then the spiced apples, and finish with the remaining bread.
Press the layers down slightly, then cover loosely with foil.
Bake until the apples are tender and the top is golden. Remove the foil in the last 10–15 minutes to let the top crisp up.
Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 to 8 servings. Prep time is 15 to 20 minutes, baking time is 40 to 45 minutes. Let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving.

Variations

Add raisins: Mix them with the apples for extra sweetness and texture.
Nut topping: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the bread mixture for crunch.
Spiced version: Include ginger or cloves for a deeper flavor.
Apple mix: Use a blend of tart and sweet apples for complexity.
Bread options: Try challah, sourdough, or even leftover croissants.
Bourbon twist: Add a splash of bourbon or spiced rum to the apple mixture.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave for 30–40 seconds or place the dish in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes until heated through. Apple Brown Betty also freezes well—wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat before serving.

FAQs

What is the difference between Apple Brown Betty and apple crisp?

Apple Brown Betty uses bread or breadcrumbs instead of a streusel topping, giving it a more pudding-like texture.

Can I use fresh bread?

Day-old or slightly stale bread is best for texture, but you can use fresh bread lightly toasted.

What apples are best?

Tart apples like Granny Smith or a mix of tart and sweet varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji work well.

Do I need to peel the apples?

Peeling is recommended for a softer texture, but you can leave the skins on for a more rustic feel.

Can I use breadcrumbs instead of cubed bread?

Yes, plain or lightly sweetened breadcrumbs work well and give a finer texture.

Is it better served warm or cold?

It’s best served warm, ideally with ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of cream.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dish and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking. Let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before baking.

Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

Yes, freeze it after baking. Reheat from frozen or thaw overnight and warm before serving.

Can I add oats?

While not traditional, you can mix oats into the topping for added texture.

What’s the origin of Apple Brown Betty?

It’s a colonial American dessert believed to date back to the 18th century, valued for its simplicity and use of pantry staples.

Conclusion

Apple Brown Betty is a humble, comforting dessert that never goes out of style. With its buttery bread topping and tender, spiced apple layers, it’s a simple yet deeply satisfying way to enjoy seasonal fruit. Whether shared at the family table or made on a whim, this classic treat always hits the spot.