If there’s one dessert that brings instant comfort, it’s a bubbling, golden Apple Crisp Recipe. This classic American treat features tender, sweet-tart apples tucked beneath a crisp, buttery oat topping that’s impossible to resist. Each bite is a harmony of warm spices, juicy fruit, and crunchy goodness, making it perfect for cozy fall evenings or any time you crave a nostalgic, homestyle dessert. Whether you serve it plain, with a scoop of ice cream, or a dollop of whipped cream, this Apple Crisp Recipe is bound to become your go-to favorite for gatherings, holidays, or just because you deserve a little something special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Apple Crisp Recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a key role, from the apples providing succulent flavor and texture, to the oats and butter creating that iconic topping. Gather what you need and let’s get baking!
- 6 cups peeled and sliced apples: Choose firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the perfect balance of tartness and sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: This keeps the apples bright and prevents browning while adding a subtle tang.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the fruit filling and helps create a luscious syrup as it bakes.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth to both the filling and the topping.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Enhances the apple flavor with a gentle, spicy note.
- 3/4 cup old-fashioned oats: The star of the topping, giving it a hearty, satisfying crunch.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Helps bind the topping together for those perfect, golden clusters.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed): Caramelizes beautifully, adding rich, molasses sweetness to the crisp.
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon: Doubles down on the cozy spice in the topping.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and brings out the flavors in both the apples and topping.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed): Essential for a crumbly, melt-in-your-mouth topping—make sure it’s cold!
How to Make Apple Crisp Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing a 9×9-inch baking dish. In a large bowl, toss your peeled and sliced apples with lemon juice, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This quick toss not only keeps the apples from browning but ensures every slice is coated in sweet, fragrant spices. Once everything is evenly mixed, spread the apples out in your prepared baking dish, creating a luscious bed of fruit just waiting for its crispy crown.
Step 2: Make the Oat Topping
Now, it’s time for the best part: that irresistible, crumbly topping. In a separate bowl, combine the old-fashioned oats, all-purpose flour, packed brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work it into the mixture until it resembles coarse, buttery crumbs. The secret here is keeping the butter cold, so you get those perfect pockets of crispness on top.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Sprinkle the oat topping evenly over the apples, making sure to cover every nook and cranny so each bite gets its share of crunchy goodness. Slide the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the topping is golden brown and the apples underneath are bubbling and tender, sending sweet aromas wafting through your kitchen. Let the Apple Crisp Recipe cool for about 10 minutes—just enough to set, but still warm and inviting.
How to Serve Apple Crisp Recipe
Garnishes
When it comes to finishing touches, a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream is the ultimate classic. The cold creaminess melting into the warm Apple Crisp Recipe creates pure bliss. For a lighter twist, try a dollop of freshly whipped cream, or even a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few thin apple slices for a pretty presentation.
Side Dishes
This dessert shines all on its own, but if you’re hosting a fall feast, consider serving it alongside a steaming mug of spiced cider or a cozy cup of coffee. Apple Crisp Recipe also pairs beautifully with sharp cheddar cheese for a fun, old-fashioned flavor contrast—trust me, it’s worth a try!
Creative Ways to Present
For family-style gatherings, bake your Apple Crisp Recipe in a big, rustic cast-iron skillet and bring it right to the table. Hosting a dinner party? Spoon individual portions into pretty ramekins before baking for a charming, personalized touch. You can even make mini crisps in mason jars for an adorable grab-and-go dessert at picnics or potlucks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), simply cover your baking dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The topping will soften a bit, but it’s still delicious—especially for breakfast the next day!
Freezing
To freeze, let the Apple Crisp Recipe cool completely, then wrap the dish securely in plastic wrap and a layer of foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. You can also freeze unbaked crisps; just add the topping right before baking for the freshest crunch.
Reheating
Warm up individual servings in the microwave for 30–45 seconds, or reheat larger portions in a 350°F oven until hot and bubbly (about 15–20 minutes). If you like your topping extra crisp, pop it under the broiler for a minute or two—just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn.
FAQs
Can I use different types of apples in this Apple Crisp Recipe?
Absolutely! In fact, using a mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Fuji can add wonderful depth of flavor and texture. Just make sure your apples are firm so they hold up during baking.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free flour blend, and be sure to use certified gluten-free oats. The result will be just as delicious and suitable for everyone at your table.
What can I add to the topping for extra crunch?
Chopped pecans or walnuts are fantastic additions to the oat topping. They bring a nutty richness and extra texture that takes this Apple Crisp Recipe to the next level.
Is it okay to prepare Apple Crisp Recipe ahead of time?
Definitely! You can assemble the crisp up to a day ahead and keep it covered in the fridge. Just bake it fresh before serving so the topping stays perfectly crispy.
Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
Yes, you can cut back on the sugar if you prefer a less sweet dessert. Try reducing both the granulated and brown sugar by a couple of tablespoons each, or use a sugar substitute that bakes well.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about the way this Apple Crisp Recipe fills your kitchen with the scent of cinnamon and baked apples. It’s a simple, soul-satisfying dessert that brings people together and never goes out of style. Give it a try, share it with loved ones, and watch it become a cherished favorite in your home too!
Print
Apple Crisp Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic and comforting Apple Crisp recipe featuring tender, cinnamon-spiced apples topped with a buttery oat crumble. Perfect for a cozy fall dessert or anytime you crave a sweet, fruity treat.
Ingredients
Apple Filling
- 6 cups peeled and sliced apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Topping
- 3/4 cup old-fashioned oats
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Mix Apples: In a large bowl, toss the peeled and sliced apples with lemon juice, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg until the apples are evenly coated with the spices and sugar.
- Arrange Apples: Spread the coated apples evenly into the prepared baking dish, ensuring an even layer for uniform baking.
- Make the Topping: In a separate bowl, combine old-fashioned oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Top the Apples: Sprinkle the oat topping evenly over the apple layer, covering the fruit completely.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples underneath are bubbling and tender.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the apple crisp to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm, optionally with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Notes
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence.
- For additional crunch, add chopped pecans or walnuts to the oat topping.
- Use a mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for the best balanced flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
