The Best Apple Crisp Recipe

Introduction

Apple crisp is a comforting classic dessert that combines tender, spiced apples with a crunchy, buttery oat topping. This recipe is simple to make and perfect for cozy nights or festive gatherings.

Ingredients

• 6 cups peeled, cored, and sliced apples (such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix)
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with granulated sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well coated. Transfer this mixture to the prepared baking dish.
3. Step 3: In another bowl, combine the oats, flour, and brown sugar for the topping. Add the cold, cubed butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Step 4: Evenly sprinkle the oat topping over the apple filling.
5. Step 5: Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are bubbling around the edges.
6. Step 6: Let the apple crisp cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm, optionally topped with ice cream or whipped cream.

Tips & Variations

• Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for the best flavor balance.
• For extra crunch, add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the topping.
• If you prefer a gluten-free version, substitute the flour with almond flour or a gluten-free blend.
• Add a pinch of cloves or allspice to the apple mixture for a deeper spice profile.

Storage

Store any leftover apple crisp covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or a low oven until warmed through. The topping will remain crispier when reheated in the oven rather than the microwave.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen apples for this recipe?

While fresh apples are best for texture, you can use frozen apples if fresh aren’t available. Thaw and drain excess moisture before preparing to prevent a soggy crisp.

How can I make the crisp topping crunchier?

Use cold butter and don’t overmix the topping. Baking a little longer or broiling for 1-2 minutes at the end can also help achieve extra crunch.

The Best Apple Crisp Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 115 reviews

This classic apple crisp recipe features tender, cinnamon-spiced apples baked under a golden, buttery oat topping. Perfectly balanced with a hint of nutmeg and lemon juice, this dessert is simple to prepare and delivers warm, comforting flavors ideal for any occasion.

• Author: Tara
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Apple Filling

• 6 cups peeled, cored, and sliced apples (such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix)
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Crisp Topping

• 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

Optional Toppings

• Vanilla ice cream
• Whipped cream
• Chopped nuts

Instructions

1. Prepare the Apple Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the peeled, cored, and sliced apples with granulated sugar, lemon juice, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Toss everything gently to ensure the apples are evenly coated with the spices and sugar, which will enhance the flavor and prevent browning.
2. Make the Crisp Topping: In a separate bowl, mix the old-fashioned rolled oats, all-purpose flour, and packed light brown sugar. Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to incorporate the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, with some pea-sized pieces remaining for a crunchy texture.
3. Assemble the Apple Crisp: Transfer the apple mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the oat topping evenly over the apples, covering the fruit completely.
4. Bake the Crisp: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the assembled apple crisp in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are bubbling and tender when pierced with a fork.
5. Cool and Serve: Remove the apple crisp from the oven and allow it to cool for at least 10 minutes to let the juices thicken slightly. Serve warm with optional toppings such as vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or chopped nuts for extra flavor and texture.

Notes

• For best results, use a mix of tart and sweet apple varieties to balance flavor and texture.
• Leave the peel on some apples for additional texture and nutrients if desired.
• The topping can be customized by adding chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
• Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat before serving.
• This apple crisp can be made ahead and baked just before serving for convenience.

Keywords: apple crisp, apple dessert, baked apple dessert, fall dessert, easy apple crisp, homemade apple crisp