Homemade apple crisp in a baking dish, topped with oats and cinnamon.

Apple Crisp Recipe

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Apple crisp is a delicious dessert that combines sweet, tender apples with a crunchy, buttery topping. It’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering. This dish is also a great way to use up extra apples, making it a favorite during apple-picking season. The warm, comforting flavors and delightful textures are sure to please everyone at the table.

How to Make Apple Crisp

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 tsp lemon juice
  • 6 golden delicious apples (peeled and chopped; other varieties are also suitable; slicing is an option)
  • 3/4 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 2 Tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold and diced into small cubes)
  • 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup old-fashioned oats (quick oats may be substituted but could alter the texture slightly)
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 cup light brown sugar
  • Pinch of kosher salt

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8 baking dish with butter or coat it with non-stick cooking spray. Set aside.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped apples, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and lemon juice. Stir thoroughly to ensure the apples are evenly coated. Transfer the apple mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
  3. In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar, oats, flour, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of kosher salt. Add the diced cold butter to the dry mixture. Use a pastry cutter, two forks, or your hands to incorporate the butter until the mixture forms pea-sized crumbs.
  4. Evenly distribute the oat topping over the apples in the baking dish, gently pressing down to ensure an even layer. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the topping turns golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

How to Serve Apple Crisp

Apple crisp is best served warm, straight from the oven. You can enjoy it on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The creamy ice cream melts into the warm crisp, creating a delicious combination of flavors and temperatures. It also pairs well with whipped cream if you prefer.

How to Store Apple Crisp

If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at a low temperature until heated through. You can also microwave single servings for a quick treat.

Tips to Make Apple Crisp

  1. For the best flavor, mix different types of apples. A combination of tart and sweet apples adds depth to the dish.
  2. Don’t skip the lemon juice! It helps to balance the sweetness of the apples and keeps them from browning.
  3. For a touch of extra flavor, consider adding nuts like pecans or walnuts to the topping.

Variation

You can easily adapt this recipe by adding spices like nutmeg or allspice in addition to the cinnamon. If you enjoy a little crunch, try adding shredded coconut or chopped nuts to the topping for added texture and flavor.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen apples for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen apples, but make sure to thaw and drain them first to prevent excess moisture.

Q: Is there a gluten-free option for the topping?
A: Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend.

Q: Can I make apple crisp ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for a day. Just bake before serving for the best results.