Name: Apple Crisp with Vanilla Ice Cream
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 cups apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (for topping); 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; Vanilla ice cream, for serving

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This classic apple crisp is easy to make, requires simple pantry ingredients, and fills your home with the irresistible aroma of cinnamon and baked apples. The contrast between the warm crisp and the cold ice cream creates a dessert experience that’s cozy, nostalgic, and satisfying. It’s perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or whenever you crave a sweet and comforting treat.

Ingredients

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

Apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Ground cinnamon
Ground nutmeg
Lemon juice
All-purpose flour
Old-fashioned rolled oats
Unsalted butter
Salt
Vanilla ice cream

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Peel, core, and slice the apples. Place them in a mixing bowl and toss with lemon juice, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Transfer the apple mixture into a greased baking dish.
In a separate bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and cold, cubed butter. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Sprinkle the oat topping evenly over the apples.
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender and bubbling.
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
Serve warm, topped with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 to 8 people.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40–45 minutes
Total time: About 1 hour

Variations

Add nuts: Mix chopped pecans or walnuts into the topping for extra crunch.
Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend and certified gluten-free oats.
Caramel drizzle: Add a drizzle of caramel sauce over the ice cream for extra indulgence.
Mixed fruit crisp: Combine apples with pears or berries for a twist on the classic.
Spice it up: Add cloves or allspice for a more complex spice profile.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover apple crisp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm individual servings in the microwave for 30–60 seconds or place the baking dish in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15 minutes.
Vanilla ice cream should be stored in the freezer and added fresh when serving. Avoid freezing baked crisp, as the topping may lose its texture.

FAQs

What are the best apples for apple crisp?

Firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold their shape and balance the sweetness of the topping.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the crisp in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake.

Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?

Rolled oats provide the best texture. Instant oats can become mushy when baked.

Is it okay to leave the apple skins on?

You can, but peeling the apples gives a softer texture and a more traditional finish.

How do I prevent the topping from getting soggy?

Bake until golden and bubbly, and let the crisp cool slightly before covering or storing.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply use a larger baking dish and adjust the baking time as needed.

What can I serve instead of vanilla ice cream?

Try whipped cream, Greek yogurt, or a drizzle of heavy cream.

Can I use less sugar?

Yes, you can reduce the sugar in both the filling and topping, depending on your taste and the sweetness of the apples.

Can I freeze apple crisp?

It’s best served fresh, but you can freeze the unbaked assembled dish. Thaw overnight and bake as directed.

Is this dessert suitable for vegans?

Use plant-based butter and a dairy-free ice cream to make a vegan-friendly version.

Conclusion

Apple Crisp with Vanilla Ice Cream is a comforting and flavorful dessert that celebrates simple ingredients and warm, familiar flavors. Whether served at a holiday table or enjoyed on a chilly evening, this dish offers the perfect balance of tender baked apples, buttery oat topping, and velvety ice cream. It’s a classic that never goes out of style.