Introduction

Apple Crisp is a classic dessert that combines tender, cinnamon-spiced apples with a crunchy oat topping. It’s a comforting treat perfect for cozy evenings or special occasions. This easy recipe will guide you through creating a warm, fruity dessert sure to delight your family and friends.

A white rectangular baking dish with a thick, golden brown oat crumble topping covering most of the surface, with one corner scooped out to show a chunky light yellow fruit filling beneath. A shiny silver spoon rests inside the scooped corner, slightly stained with the filling. On the side, a white bowl of light beige ice cream sits near the dish. Nearby, a piece of the crumble is served on a small black plate with two black spoons resting beside it on a gray cloth napkin. The whole setting is on a white marbled textured surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 cups Granny Smith apples, peeled and cubed (1kg / 2.2 pounds)
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 and 1/2 cups rolled oats
1 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3/4 cup melted butter (lightly salted or unsalted, then melted)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick spray. Set aside.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine the peeled and cubed apples with 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup flour, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Toss until the apples are evenly coated.
Step 3: Transfer the apple mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
Step 4: For the topping, mix 1 cup flour, rolled oats, 1 cup brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon in a separate bowl. Add melted butter and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, then stir until well combined.
Step 5: Crumble the oat topping evenly over the apples using your fingers.
Step 6: Bake in the oven for 50 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges.
Step 7: Remove from the oven and let cool on the counter for about 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if desired.

Tips & Variations

Use tart apples like Granny Smith for the best flavor and texture.
For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with oat flour or almond flour.
Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the topping for extra crunch.
Swap nutmeg with ground ginger or cloves for a different warm spice profile.

Storage

Store leftover apple crisp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 30 seconds or in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through. This dessert also freezes well; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

A square piece of apple crisp dessert sits on a round white plate, showing three layers: a bottom layer of soft, gooey, light golden cooked apples, a thick middle layer of golden brown oat and crumb topping with visible oats and a crunchy texture, and a top layer consisting of a smooth, round scoop of creamy, light beige ice cream placed right in the center. The plate is set on a white marbled surface with a black spoon lying nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of apples?

Yes, you can use a mix of apples such as Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn for varied sweetness and texture. Just be sure to include some tart ones like Granny Smith for balance.

How do I prevent the topping from becoming soggy?

Make sure to spread the topping evenly and avoid stirring it into the apples. Baking until golden and bubbly helps keep the topping crisp. Serving slightly warm also preserves the texture.