Skillet apple crisp with three simple ingredients ready to serve

3-Ingredient Skillet Apple Crisp Recipe

ByCasey Monroe

why make this recipe

This 3-Ingredient Skillet Apple Crisp is a quick and easy dessert that highlights the natural sweetness of apples. With minimal ingredients, you can create a warm and comforting treat that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s ideal for a family gathering, a cozy night at home, or even as a sweet finish to a busy weekday meal. Plus, who doesn’t love a delicious dessert that requires just three main ingredients?

how to make 3-Ingredient Skillet Apple Crisp

Ingredients:

  • 2 pounds apples (4 large or 5 medium), peeled, cored, and cut into 1-inch chunks
  • 2 tablespoons (1/4 stick) cold salted butter
  • 1 1/3 cups flavored instant oatmeal (about 4 packets), such as Maple & Brown Sugar or Cinnamon & Spice
  • 6 tablespoons (3/4 stick) cold salted butter, cut into 1 tablespoon-sized pieces

Directions:

  1. Set your oven to 425°F and place a rack in the center position to ensure even baking.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the instant oatmeal with 6 tablespoons of the cold butter. Use your fingertips to press and squeeze the butter into the oats until moist crumbs form. Place this mixture in the refrigerator to chill while preparing the apples.
  3. Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in a 10-inch oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the apple chunks and cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples develop caramelized spots and begin to soften, about 5 to 7 minutes. Lower the heat to medium if the apples start browning too quickly. Remove the skillet from heat once done.
  4. If your skillet is not oven-safe, transfer the sautéed apples to a 2-quart baking dish. Scatter the chilled oat topping over the apples evenly; it may not cover them completely, which is fine.
  5. Place the skillet or baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 24 minutes. Bake until the juices around the edges are bubbling, the apples are tender, and the oat topping is golden brown and crisp.
  6. Remove from the oven and allow the apple crisp to cool for about 10 minutes. Serve warm and enjoy!

how to serve 3-Ingredient Skillet Apple Crisp

You can serve this crispy delight warm from the oven. It goes wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top. You can also add some nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor.

how to store 3-Ingredient Skillet Apple Crisp

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through.

tips to make 3-Ingredient Skillet Apple Crisp

  • Choose a mix of sweet and tart apples for more complexity in flavor. Varieties like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp work well together.
  • If you like a crunchier topping, you can add a bit of brown sugar or a handful of chopped nuts to the oat mixture.
  • Experiment with different flavored oat packets to change up the taste!

variation

You can switch out the flavored instant oatmeal for plain oats and add your own spices, like cinnamon or nutmeg, to enhance the flavor. You can also try using other fruits such as pears or berries for a different fruit crisp.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular oats instead of flavored instant oatmeal?
Yes, you can use regular oats. Just add some sugar, cinnamon, or your favorite spices to match the sweetness you need.

2. What can I serve with apple crisp?
Apple crisp pairs well with ice cream, whipped cream, or even yogurt for a tasty and comforting dessert.

3. How do I know when the apple crisp is done?
Your apple crisp is ready when the edges are bubbling, the apples are tender, and the topping is golden brown. If the topping is browning too quickly, you can cover it lightly with foil until the apples are done.